Welcome to OncoPelvic PT!

As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, my training has equipped me to expertly evaluate, diagnose, and treat a multitude of conditions that people of all ages and genders may experience, from head-to-toe and everything in between. Physical therapists can practice as generalists or specialize in a particular area, and I discovered my calling as a student: specialization in pelvic health and oncology. The profound impact that was made within a single session rocked me to my core because of my past medical experiences including severe hip pain that was misdiagnosed for 3 years, having medical providers not take my pain seriously, experiencing chronic pain, and developing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It took an enormous amount of effort to get the care I needed for these different medical issues, but once I found my team and understood more about my conditions, I felt empowered and was able to manage my symptoms. I was able to thrive again.

I created OncoPelvic PT with one goal in mind: empower people experiencing pelvic health and oncology-related issues to thrive. People experiencing pelvic health and oncology-related symptoms are typically underserved in healthcare and research looking into how physical therapy can help with these conditions is lacking. These factors, as well as there being a lot of misinformation out there, can make it hard to find both accurate information and qualified providers. Having difficulty with pelvic health or oncology-related concerns can also be challenging or embarrassing for people to discuss if they’re dealing with more sensitive symptoms. This can lead to people feeling isolated and powerless.

I find that a lot people are having to go to “Dr. Google” or friends and family to get information, and unfortunately the tips and information they are getting may be more harmful than helpful. For example, the best way to combat cancer related fatigue is to exercise, not rest! Additionally, many people believe and are told that their symptoms are normal, when in fact they are often commonly experienced by people but not necessarily “normal” or inevitable. A great example of this is the expectation and normalizing of having urinary incontinence (leakage) as we get older. There is no need to suffer in silence and there is always hope!

I am passionate about education and empowering all folks to manage their symptoms and get back to enjoying life. So here we are. Talking about all things related to pelvic health, oncology, and lymphedema! On my page, you will find evidence-based, empowering, and inclusive information and resources to help you on your journey - wherever you’re at.

Pelvic health concerns for all genders may include:

• Urinary, stool, or gas incontinence (leakage)

• Pelvic organ prolapse

• Constipation

• Bowel and bladder urgency

• Pain

  • with sexual activity (before, during, after)

  • using menstrual products like tampons or menstrual cups

  • with pelvic exams

• Coccyx (tailbone) pain

• Sexual dysfunction

• Genital pain

• Treatment after gender affirming surgery including vaginoplasty

• Conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis (IC), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Issues after pelvic or abdominal surgery

Oncology related concerns for all genders may include:

• Lymphedema

• Fatigue and deconditioning

• Balance

• Weakness

• Decreased range of motion and flexibility

• Scar restriction or pain

• Radiation fibrosis

• Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)

• Sexual dysfunction

• Limitations after surgery or treatment

Now, these are not all-exhaustive lists! So make sure to subscribe to my monthly newsletter for future blog posts (and check out my Instagram @OncoPelvicPT) for more information about managing pelvic health and oncology conditions. You can also check out products that I’ve tested and love on my Recommended Products page.