Archives

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8 months ago

Dr. Brooke Winner

Dr. Brooke Winner

Brooke Winner – Endometriosis Specialist

Summary: Dr Brooke Winner is a compassionate and highly skilled endometriosis specialist based in Seattle, Washington. With a deep belief in the embryologic origin theory of endometriosis, Dr Brooke Winner approaches care with the understanding that many patients are born with misplaced endometrial cells, explaining why symptoms often begin with the first period. She specializes in excision surgery, providing targeted and effective treatment tailored to each individual’s needs.

Dr Brooke Winner works closely with patients to explore hormone therapy options when appropriate, always prioritizing shared decision-making. She typically avoids treatments like Lupron or Orlissa due to potential side effects, but respects that they may benefit some patients. Her approach to persistent pain after surgery is holistic and multidisciplinary, incorporating pelvic floor therapy, acupuncture, nutrition, and mental health support. Patients appreciate her thoughtful, personalized care and commitment to long-term wellness.

City: Seattle, Washington, USA

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe in the embryologic origin theory, which basically says you are born with the endometriosis cells in the wrong place. This would explain why so many endometriosis patients say that their periods have been terrible ever since they started.

What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision

Medication: Some patients respond well to hormone therapy, and others do not. There is no “one size fits all” approach. We will discuss the options available, the pros and cons given your unique situation, and ultimately the decision is up to you. We typically do not use Lupron or Orlissa to treat endometriosis due to significant side effects, although there are some patients who have found these medications helpful as well.

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: The persistence of symptoms postoperatively is multifaceted and requires a multidisciplinary approach. One common issue is pelvic floor muscle spasms, in which case pelvic floor physical therapy can be helpful. Vaginal suppositories, acupuncture, massage, nutrition and mental health counseling can all be beneficial as well.

Website: https://www.fullspectrumgyn.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.brookewinner/

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9 months ago

Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT

Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT, CSCS, PCES, Cert-DN

Jillian Lipari—Endometriosis, Physical Therapist

Summary: Jillian Lipari is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist based in Bedminster, New Jersey. At Ethos Pelvic Health and Wellness, Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT, provides trauma-informed care that prioritizes each patient’s unique experience and needs. Her sessions are tailored and may include visceral mobilization, dry needling, soft tissue and cranial work, internal myofascial release, and somatic movement strategies. Jillian emphasizes nervous system regulation and patient education, particularly around the brain’s fear and trauma responses. She believes in building a strong therapeutic alliance and collaborating with the patient’s broader care team to ensure holistic, well-rounded support. Jillian Lipari’s approach is compassionate, empowering, and grounded in both clinical skill and emotional understanding, helping patients feel safe, supported, and involved in their healing journey.

City: Bedminster, NJ,  USA

Visit types: Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy oof EndometriosisCare: I believe deeply in trauma-informed care that allows the session to be led by the patient’s specific needs. While no two sessions look the same, I often utilize visceral mobilizations, dry needling, breathing for CNS down-regulation, jaw and cranial mobilizations, soft tissue release, internal myofascial release, and somatic release movement techniques. I also consistently educate on the brain’s fear response, more often related to trauma, albeit medical or otherwise. Most of my sessions are focused on creating a therapeutic alliance with my patients to develop the plan of care they need. I always correspond with other members of their medical team and assist my clients in finding the necessary qualified professionals to aid in their care.
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9 months ago

Dr. Gina Ranieri

Dr. Gina Ranieri

Gina Ranieri – Endometriosis Specialist

Summary: Dr Gina Ranieri is an experienced endometriosis specialist based in Princeton, New Jersey. Gina Ranieri’s approach to endometriosis care is rooted in the belief that the condition often originates during embryologic development, involving coelomic metaplasia or embryonic cell remnants. This perspective helps explain endometriosis in patients without menstruation and in unusual locations. Dr Gina Ranieri performs precise excision surgery to remove endometriosis lesions while prioritizing patient well-being. For those not pursuing surgery or to prevent recurrence, she prescribes hormonal treatments such as the levonorgestrel IUD and combined oral contraceptives. Post-surgery, Gina Ranieri carefully evaluates persistent pain by considering other causes, referring patients to pelvic floor physical therapy, and administering trigger point or Botox injections. She also uses non-opioid pain medications and advanced imaging to guide further treatment, always focusing on personalized, compassionate care.

City: Princeton, New Jersey, USA

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: The theory of endometriosis that I believe makes the most sense is that endometriosis likely originates during embryologic development either through coelomic metaplasia or embryonic cell remnants. This explains how endometriosis can be seen in non-menstruating patients and areas outside the abdominopelvic cavity.

What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision

Medication: I will use hormonal medications such as the levonorgestrel IUD, combined oral contraceptive pills, Depo-Provera, or norethindrone for patients who are not interested in surgical treatment or to prevent recurrence after surgical excision in select patients.

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: For patients who have undergone complete surgical excision of endometriosis and continue to report symptoms, I will often explore other pain generators. I do refer patients to pelvic floor physical therapy and perform pelvic floor trigger point and Botox injections, as well as abdominal wall injections to treat myofascial pain. I will also prescribe non-opioid, centrally acting pain medications for patients with very challenging-to-treat pain. If I suspect that the patient’s endometriosis has returned, I will often order imaging in the form of an MRI and potentially offer repeat surgery in appropriate and select patients.

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10 months ago

Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT

Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT

Abigail Daunis—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Abigail Daunis is a compassionate endometriosis physical therapist based in Nashville, Tennessee. At Peak Tempo PT, Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT, offers individualized, evidence-based care that begins with truly listening to each patient’s goals and concerns. Her treatment approach includes a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, dry needling, and, when appropriate, internal vaginal muscle release and cupping. Abigail focuses on creating a supportive, respectful environment where patients feel heard and empowered. With a deep understanding of the physical and emotional toll of endometriosis, she tailors every plan to reduce pain, improve pelvic function, and support long-term healing. Abigail Daunis is committed to helping her patients regain control over their health and feel confident throughout their physical therapy journey.

City: Nashville, TN,  USA

Visit types: Office/Hospital/At Home; Virtual

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: My philosophy of care is to listen to the patient and what they are hoping to get out of PT. Typical treatment strategies include manual therapy, internal vaginal exams and muscle release if indicated, patient education, dry needling, therapeutic exercise Rx, and cupping if indicated.
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11 months ago

Jill Cramp, PT, DPT

Jill Cramp, PT, DPT

Jill Cramp—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Jill Cramp is a compassionate and trauma-informed endometriosis physical therapist based in Poland, Maine. At Saco Bay Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, Jill Cramp, PT, DPT, provides individualized care that begins with truly listening. She understands the challenges many patients face with delayed diagnoses and seeks to create a safe, validating space for healing. Her treatment focuses on relieving bladder, bowel, and sexual symptoms through a personalized blend of breathwork, visceral and myofascial mobilization, dry needling, and targeted exercises. Jill emphasizes the power of movement and education to reduce inflammation and support long-term wellness. With deep clinical expertise and a patient-first mindset, Jill Cramp helps individuals with endometriosis feel seen, supported, and empowered in their care journey.

City: Poland, ME, USA

Visit types:  Office

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: Yes

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: Endometriosis is a complex diagnosis that often goes untreated/undiagnosed for years. My initial approach to working with a patient with endometriosis is to listen. I find many patients have a history of being gaslit by medical professionals, and I seek to provide a safe, trauma-informed space where symptoms are validated and patients feel comfortable talking. I specialize in treating bladder, bowel, and sexual symptoms. Typical treatment varies depending on symptoms but may include breath work, visceral mobilization, abdominopelvic myofascial mobilization, stretches and strengthening exercises, dry needling, etc. Exercise is an important part of decreasing inflammation in the body; therefore, exercise, strength, and education are critical parts of therapy intervention.
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12 months ago

Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT

Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT

Kelly Djernes—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Kelly Djernes is a skilled endometriosis physical therapist based in Omaha, Nebraska, offering compassionate, whole-body care at Nebraska Core + Pelvic Therapy. Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT, believes in addressing the full spectrum of systems impacted by endometriosis, using evidence-based treatments to reduce pain and restore function. Her approach blends therapeutic movement, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapy techniques—including cupping, myofascial release, dry needling, and visceral mobilization—and personalized self-care strategies. Kelly creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard, informed, and empowered to make confident choices about their care. With a focus on education and collaboration, Kelly Djernes guides each patient toward long-term relief and improved quality of life. Her dedication to treating the whole person ensures that care is as individualized as the people she serves.

City: Omaha, NE, USA

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe in treating the patient as a whole person and working with my patients to develop care plans that address as many affected systems as possible. I use a combination of therapeutic movements, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapies (including cupping, myofascial release, dry needling, and visceral mobilization), and self-care strategies to minimize pain and optimize function. I strive to provide accurate information in a supportive environment, aiding my patients in decision-making so they receive the most effective treatments.
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1 year ago

Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT

Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT

Kristen Munoz—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Kristen Munoz is a compassionate and experienced endometriosis physical therapist based in New York City. At Body Harmony Physical Therapy, Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT, takes a whole-body approach to care, blending yoga, Pilates, and hands-on techniques to support patients with chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. Her treatment style is gentle, integrative, and deeply patient-centered, focusing on improving pelvic stability, relieving visceral pain, and restoring bladder and bowel function. Kristen empowers her patients through personalized movement, mindfulness, and lifestyle strategies, helping them feel supported and in control of their healing journey. Her unique blend of clinical expertise and holistic philosophy provides effective, long-term relief while addressing the emotional and physical toll of endometriosis. Kristen Munoz works closely with each individual to create a sense of harmony, reduce stress, and improve quality of life.

City: New York, NY, USA

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English and Spanish

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: As a healthcare practitioner, I approach patient care through a philosophical lens that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the whole body system. I integrate yoga strategies to enhance flexibility as well as reduce pain, Pilates for pelvic girdle stability, and visceral and soft tissue mobilization techniques to alleviate pain and improve function. Additionally, I employ strategies to improve bladder and bowel function through targeted exercises and lifestyle modifications, emphasizing stress reduction techniques to support overall well-being. This comprehensive, patient-centered approach fosters a balanced, harmonious state of health and empowers patients to actively participate in their healing journey.
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1 year ago

Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH

Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH

Rachel Clark—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH, is a highly experienced endometriosis physical therapist at Sana Physical Therapy in East Aurora, NY. With over 20 years in orthopedics and 9 years in pelvic health, Rachel Clark offers one-on-one, hour-long sessions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. She takes a whole-body, integrative approach, combining orthopedic and pelvic health techniques to address pain, adhesions, and movement dysfunction. Her methods include manual therapy, pelvic floor assessment and treatment, myofascial release, joint mobilizations, and Pilates-based rehabilitation. Rachel Clark also provides extensive patient education and collaborates with a dedicated team—including pelvic floor therapists and an in-house RDN—to ensure comprehensive care. Her practice addresses both bladder and bowel dysfunctions associated with endometriosis, using evidence-based strategies to improve mobility, manage symptoms, and restore function.

City: East Aurora, NY, USA

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care:

As a physical therapist practicing for 20 years in orthopedics and 9 years in pelvic health, I treat with a variety of treatment strategies that are patient-specific. I currently co-own Sana Physical Therapy, where treatment and evaluation are an hour in length and one-on-one with the physical therapist, never using aides or assistants to provide care. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and as both an orthopedic and pelvic health specialist, I utilize my expertise by examining the whole body pertaining to pain and movement dysfunction. I perform manual therapy, soft tissue, and myofascial release techniques, and joint mobilizations as necessary. I perform pelvic floor physical therapy for both bladder and bowel dysfunction associated with endometriosis. I am trained to perform internal manual therapy treatment and assessment to address adhesions and restrictions within the pelvic floor. I use down-training and up-training principles along with neuromuscular education and pain science education. I employ exercise prescriptions for my patients needing to regain ROM, improve tissue mobility, and decrease restrictions and adhesions. I spend a long time educating each of my patients on their physical therapy plan of care, home exercise program, and pain and symptom management techniques. I work alongside 2 additional pelvic floor physical therapists, and we collaborate with case management and provide monthly in-service and clinical skill enhancement workshops. We also treat male pelvic floor disorders at our clinic. We have a strong referral source and collaboration from the local physician community treating patients with endometriosis, and we also have an RDN working at our clinic.

I am also yoga and Pilates certified and employ Pilates-based rehabilitation principles as necessary, with patients benefiting from this type of movement-based training and care.

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1 year ago

Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT

Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT

Brynn Patterson—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT, is an experienced endometriosis physical therapist and co-founder of Sana Physical Therapy in East Aurora, NY. With over 20 years in physical therapy and specialized pelvic health training from the Herman & Wallace Institute, Brynn Patterson offers personalized, one-on-one care focused on relieving pain and improving pelvic function. Her approach includes manual therapy techniques like visceral mobilization and myofascial release to address adhesions and soft tissue restrictions in the abdomen and pelvic floor. She also guides patients through therapeutic exercises to restore strength and mobility, alongside education on self-care and symptom management. Committed to comprehensive care, Brynn Patterson collaborates with other health professionals to support each patient’s unique journey toward improved wellness.

City: East Aurora, NY

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: Yes

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: Dr. Patterson received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 2004. She has 20 years of expertise in the PT field, including specialized training in Pelvic health through the prestigious Herman & Wallace Institute. Dr. Patterson is co-founder of Sana Physical Therapy, where she provides orthopedic and pelvic health PT.

Dr. Patterson is passionate about providing the highest level of care to all her patients, especially those with endometriosis. She provides personalized, one-hour-long treatment sessions without the use of aids or PT assistants. She uses several strategies for alleviating pain and reducing inflammation by providing manual therapy to address adhesions and restrictions in soft tissue in both the abdomen and pelvic floor, including visceral mobilization and myofascial release. She provides therapeutic exercises to promote full ROM and strength in the pelvic floor muscles, including relaxation and stretches to down-train areas as appropriate. She educates patients on self-care, symptom management, and how to advocate for their medical care. She refers patients to the appropriate health professionals, i.e.,. Nutritionists and specialized OB-GYNs provide appropriate pre- and post-op care as necessary.

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1 year ago

Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC

Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC

Erika Darbro—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC, is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist at Envision Pelvic Health & Wellness in Chicago, Illinois. Erika Darbro embraces a holistic approach to care, beginning with patient education to help individuals better understand their condition. She employs a range of hands-on techniques, including visceral manipulation, myofascial release (both external and internal), therapeutic cupping, and dry needling. Erika also incorporates vagus nerve upregulation and yoga-based stretching to promote mobility and overall wellness. Her compassionate care focuses on empowering patients with effective tools and personalized treatments to improve quality of life and manage endometriosis symptoms naturally.

City: Chicago, IL, USA

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I take a holistic approach to treating patients with endometriosis. I start with education and provide resources for patients to understand their condition better. I use a variety of hands-on methods, such as visceral manipulation, myofascial release externally and internally as appropriate, therapeutic cupping, dry needling, vagus nerve upregulation, yoga-based stretching, and mobility.
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1 year ago

Dr. Sadikah Behbehani

Dr. Sadikah Behbehani,

Sadikah Behbehani – Endometriosis Specialist

Summary: Dr Sadikah Behbehani is a dedicated endometriosis specialist based in Costa Mesa, California, known for her compassionate and expert care. Dr Sadikah Behbehani focuses on thorough endometriosis excision surgery to remove the disease at its roots while prioritizing fertility preservation. Dr Behbehani carefully removes endometriosis from critical areas such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bowel, bladder, and diaphragm, aiming to minimize damage and support patients’ reproductive health. She emphasizes understanding the embryologic origins of endometriosis to provide personalized treatment. After surgery, Dr Sadikah Behbehani recommends medication only when necessary, such as muscle relaxants or nerve pain treatments, avoiding narcotics entirely. For persistent pain, Dr Behbehani adopts a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating with specialists in pain management, physical therapy, and gastroenterology, while closely monitoring each patient’s recovery with ongoing care every few months. Her patient-centered philosophy ensures compassionate, tailored support for lasting relief.

City: Costa Mesa,  California

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: It doesn’t matter where it came from; what matters is that it’s removed. Endometriosis, like cancer, can spread via multiple channels. Also, pleuripotent stem cells in the pleura and peritoneum can lead to its development. Most endometriosis patients are born with these cells that differentiate into endometriosis with hormone stimulation. It’s nothing that women did that led to their development. We have to understand embryologic origin to understand endometriosis growth because endometriosis can be associated with congenital anomalies in the genitourinary and reproductive organs.

What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: I perform endometriosis excision surgery to remove the endo from its roots, but I also focus on preserving fertility. I remove endometriosis from around the fallopian tubes and ovaries routinely. My surgical strategies focus on minimizing damage to the ovaries to help preserve ovarian reserve and help with future fertility. I also perform tubal surgery when necessary. It’s important to appropriately excise the disease while minimizing damage to reproductive organs. I also excise endometriosis from the bowel, bladder, and diaphragm and perform an appendectomy when necessary.

Medication: I only recommend medication after surgery after we’ve ensured that all endometriosis has been appropriately excised. For bladder or muscular spasms, I prescribe cyclobenzaprine. For nerve pain, I prescribe gabapentin. I have a good referral team and, when necessary, will refer to pain management to take care of residual pain from endometriosis nerve, and muscle damage. I never prescribe narcotics, and I don’t send my patients to anyone who will.

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: I work with them until their pain reaches a tolerable level. I refer them to specialists as needed (pain management, GI, PT), but I continue to oversee their treatment plan with visits q3-6 months.

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1 year ago

Dr. Fadel Azer

Dr. Fadel Azer

Dr Fadel Azer – Endometriosis Specialist

Summary: Dr Fadel Azer is a dedicated endometriosis specialist based in Lisle, IL, who offers compassionate, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr Fadel understands the complex and multifactorial nature of endometriosis, including genetic, hormonal, immune, and environmental factors. As doctor Azer explains, deep endometriosis requires a thoughtful approach beyond conventional theories. Dr Fadel specializes in excision surgery combined with customized hormonal treatments such as Mirena IUD, oral contraceptives, and Depo-Provera to effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Dr Azer carefully evaluates persistent pain after surgery through a multidisciplinary team approach, working with pelvic pain specialists, physical therapists, and behavioral therapists. His commitment to thorough preoperative assessment and personalized postoperative care supports long-term relief and patient well-being. Patients looking for expert care in Lisle can trust Dr Fadel Azer for comprehensive, empathetic treatment of endometriosis.

City: Lisle, IL, USA

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe that the etiology of endometriosis is complex and multifactorial involving genetic, hormonal, immune, and environmental components. For most patients, I find a positive family history of the disease or one of its symptoms. While retrograde menstruation may initiate superficial endometriosis, deep endometriosis appears to have different mechanisms. Unlike superficial lesions, deep nodular lesions are not typically shed during menstruation, suggesting alternative theories such as coelomic metaplasia, induction of cellular transformation, and the embryonic remnant theory may better explain their origin. Genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences also contribute to the progression of both superficial and deep

What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis?: Excision

Medication: Given the unique circumstances of each patient, I customize my treatment strategy accordingly. I offer a range of hormonal contraceptive options, including the Mirena IUD, oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), and Depo-Provera. Medications are provided before, during (such as inserting a Mirena or Kyleena IUD post-excision surgery while the patient is still under anesthesia, particularly for younger patients or those aiming for fertility), and after surgery. While I typically refrain from routinely suggesting GnRH agonists or antagonists, I may contemplate their use in certain instances, particularly for addressing persistent postoperative pain.

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: Preparation for managing postoperative persistent pain begins during preoperative consultations. I conduct thorough assessments, including detailed medical histories and comprehensive physical exams, along with pelvic pain evaluations to explore potential conditions like spastic pelvic floor syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. When central sensitization is suspected, I collaborate with a team comprising pelvic floor physical therapists, pelvic pain specialists, sex therapists, and behavioral therapists. I prescribe muscle relaxants to address pelvic floor spasms and provide treatment for interstitial cystitis or IBS through medications and lifestyle adjustments. In cases of suspected central sensitization, SSRIs may be prescribed. Additionally, I may consider GnRH agonists or antagonists for persistent postoperative pain management in specific scenarios.

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