Bhavti Soni, PT, DPT, PHC
Bhavti Soni, PT, DPT, PHC
City: Warren, New Jersey, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital; Virtual
Spoken languages: English, Hindi, Gujarati
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
As a pelvic health physical therapist who has been treating patients with endometriosis for 8+ years now, I approach treatment with the understanding that endometriosis is a whole-body condition, not just a localized pelvic issue. My philosophy is rooted in addressing the person as a whole—mind, body, and spirit—rather than focusing solely on the affected body parts. This holistic perspective acknowledges the interconnected nature of physical, emotional, and systemic health.
A Whole-Body Approach
Endometriosis impacts not only the pelvis but also musculoskeletal function, visceral health, the nervous system, and emotional well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with a compassionate understanding of how these systems interact. Treatments may include:
Although the biggest tool I have in my toolbox is my ears, “I Listen to the Patient,” Here are a few other techniques, among many others, I use
Manual Therapy: Gentle techniques to release fascial restrictions, improve mobility in the pelvic organs, and reduce adhesions.
Neuromuscular Re-Education: Enhancing motor control and addressing postural imbalances that contribute to pain or dysfunction.
Pain Science Education: Empowering patients to understand their pain and take an active role in their recovery through personalized strategies.
Breathwork and Relaxation Training: Utilizing diaphragmatic breathing to regulate the nervous system, improve core function, and enhance pelvic floor relaxation.
Exercise Prescription: Develop tailored movement programs to build strength, flexibility, and resilience while respecting the body’s limits.
Modalities: I pride myself on having the best evidence modalities out there, whether it’s a cold laser, shockwave, or imaging ultrasound for biofeedback, or EMG, among many others. But I still believe the second best tool I have is my hands 🙂 after my ears.
Collaborative Care
Endometriosis often requires a multidisciplinary approach, and I value collaboration with other healthcare providers, including gynecologists, pain management specialists, dietitians, mental health therapists, and acupuncturists. By working together, we can address all facets of the condition, from hormonal imbalances to emotional stressors and systemic inflammation.
Patient-Centered Care
Every patient’s journey with endometriosis is unique. My goal is to create a safe, empowering space where patients feel heard and supported. I strive to educate and collaborate with each individual, ensuring that their treatment plan aligns with their goals, lifestyle, and personal values.
Healing from endometriosis is a journey, and I am committed to walking alongside my patients, helping them reclaim their quality of life through integrative, compassionate, and evidence-informed care. Together, we aim to foster resilience, manage pain, and restore function for a healthier, more vibrant life.
Caroline Arbour, PT, DPT
Caroline Arbour, PT, DPT
City: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Visit types: Office/Hospital; Virtual
Spoken languages: French and English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
I have been a PT for 18 years and have specialized in women’s pelvic health for the past 14 years. I have a holistic approach with all my patients. When treating endo patients (or any pain condition typical to women at any stage of life), I am always sensitive to the multi-dimensional aspects of their pain. Women have often been invalidated (often multiple times) when trying to seek care and/or diagnosis for their pain and validation that their pain is real, no matter what the diagnosis, is always one of my priorities.
More specifically, I spend a lot of time talking with my patients to help me understand their journey and identify their needs, beliefs, goals, etc.
I evaluate and treat using breathwork, mindfulness approaches, gentle and progressive exercises, visceral and myofascial release techniques, and yoga therapy. I have also done a lot of courses on pain system sensitization and centralization. A lot of education is always offered to my patients; resources are shared, and explanations of the pain system, the condition, and the role of the multiple dimensions of pain (bio, psycho, social, cultural, etc.)
I have also written a book (an essay)—published in 2023—called “Habiter nos corps / Pour en finir avec la banalisation de la douleur des femmes. In this book I research, explore, and share about the multiple dimensions of pain, the history of women’s health, sociology, language, and other cultural aspects contributing to pain (by invalidating it, for example).
Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT
Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT, CSCS, PCES, Cert-DN
City: Bedminster, NJ, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT
Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT
City: Nashville, TN, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital/At Home; Virtual
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Jill Cramp, PT, DPT
Jill Cramp, PT, DPT
City: Poland, ME, USA
Visit types: Office
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
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 gas-lit 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.
Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT
Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT
City: Omaha, NE, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Adriana Patricia Ramon Figueroa, PT
Adriana Patricia Ramon Figueroa, PT
City: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English, Spanish, and French
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Holistic Approach Treating endometriosis considers the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of the patient’s life. This comprehensive approach ensures that all factors contributing to the patient’s condition are managed.
Patient-Centered Care: Focusing on the individual needs and goals of the patient is crucial. Treatment plans should be personalized, taking into account the patient’s unique symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences. Open communication and active patient involvement in decision-making are essential.
Evidence-Based Practice: Utilizing treatment methods and interventions that are supported by scientific research and clinical evidence ensures the highest standard of care.
Empowerment Through Education: Educating patients about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies empowers them to take an active role in their care. Knowledge about endometriosis and its management can help patients make informed decisions and improve their quality of life. ### Focus on Function and Quality of Life The ultimate goal is to improve the patient’s overall function and quality of life. This involves not only reducing pain but also enhancing physical abilities, emotional well-being, and social participation
Preventative and Maintenance Strategies: Develop long-term strategies to prevent symptom flare-ups and maintain improvements gained during treatment. This may include lifestyle modifications, ongoing exercise programs, and regular follow-up appointments.
Compassionate and Supportive Care: Providing care with empathy, understanding, and support, recognizing the challenges and frustrations that come with living with a chronic condition like endometriosis. Creating a supportive environment can significantly impact the patient’s treatment experience and outcomes.
Introducing different ways to manage endometriosis pain, such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and repetitive movement strategies (Mckenzie).
Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT
Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT
City: New York, NY, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English and Spanish
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH
Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH
City: East Aurora, NY, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT
Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT
City: East Aurora, NY
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
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, specialized OB-gyn and provide appropriate pre- and post-op care as necessary.
Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
City: Chicago, IL, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
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.
Racquel Kurzweg PT, PRPC
Racquel Kurzweg PT, PRPC
City: Amherst, NY
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
A comprehensive assessment precedes a multifaceted approach encompassing patient education, therapeutic movement, and manual interventions. Central to my methodology is prioritizing patient comprehension and providing robust support, followed by empowering patients with personalized stretches and movements to foster a sense of control over their condition. I incorporate skilled manual therapy techniques, drawing from my expertise in osteopathic manipulation, visceral mobilization, and myofascial release, among others, executed with a gentle touch. Additionally, I utilize adjunctive modalities including scar mobilization, cupping, and gentle instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), alongside specialized techniques such as nerve mobility work, to ameliorate symptoms effectively. Further enhancing treatment efficacy, I integrate modalities such as real-time ultrasound and surface electromyography (sEMG) to heighten patient awareness and facilitate the reprogramming of dysfunctional movement patterns.
