Archives

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2 years 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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2 years 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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2 years 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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2 years 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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2 years 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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2 years ago

Racquel Kurzweg PT, PRPC

Racquel Kurzweg, PT, PRPC

Racquel Kurzweg—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Racquel Kurzweg, PT, PRPC, is an expert endometriosis physical therapist at Adore Your Core Physical Therapy in Amherst, NY. Racquel Kurzweg takes a comprehensive and compassionate approach to care, starting with a thorough assessment followed by personalized education, therapeutic movement, and manual therapy techniques. She integrates osteopathic manipulation, visceral mobilization, and myofascial release with adjunct therapies like scar mobilization, cupping, and gentle IASTM to effectively reduce symptoms. Racquel Kurzweg also uses advanced tools such as real-time ultrasound and surface electromyography (sEMG) to improve patient awareness and correct dysfunctional movement patterns. Her goal is to empower patients with tailored stretches and strategies, helping them regain control and confidence in managing endometriosis.

City: Amherst, NY

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: 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.
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2 years ago

Avery Madden, PT, DPT, WCS

Avery Madden, PT, DPT, WCS

Avery Madden—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Avery Madden, PT, DPT, WCS, is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist based at Houston Methodist West Outpatient Rehabilitation in Houston, Texas. Avery Madden combines a strong orthopedic background with pelvic health expertise to provide holistic care tailored to each patient’s needs. She uses therapeutic exercises, myofascial and trigger-point release, and addresses nervous system dysregulation related to chronic pelvic pain. Avery also incorporates visceral mobilization techniques and collaborates with excision specialists and dietitians to tackle inflammation and underlying causes beyond musculoskeletal issues. Committed to whole-person care, Avery Madden’s approach focuses on optimizing overall function and improving quality of life for those living with endometriosis.

City: Houston, TX

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: Yes

Philosophy of  Endometriosis Care: I am a well-rounded pelvic health physical therapist with a strong orthopedic skill set. I use therapeutic exercises, myofascial and trigger-point release techniques, and strategies to address nervous system dysregulation as it pertains to chronic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction. I treat all clients holistically by aiding in addressing underlying causes of inflammation through referrals to necessary medical providers, including excision specialists, dieticians, etc, to provide care beyond musculoskeletal. I have undergone additional training in visceral mobilization techniques and plan to pursue training in dry needling in my ongoing continuing education. I have a true passion for treating the whole individual in my care and for optimizing their function in all aspects of their life.
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2 years ago

Ana Arteaga-Biggs, PsyD

Ana Arteaga-Biggs, PsyD

Ana Arteaga-Biggs—Endometriosis Psychologist

Summary: Ana Arteaga-Biggs, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist based in San Diego, California, specializing in women’s health, endometriosis, and chronic pelvic pain. Ana Arteaga-Biggs offers compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique experience with endometriosis and related mental health challenges. Fluent in English and Spanish, she integrates cognitive behavioral and humanistic-existential approaches, addressing the psychological, cultural, and emotional impacts of living with chronic pain and infertility. Ana supports patients in managing pain, trauma, grief, and relationship difficulties, fostering a safe space to explore goals and promote healing. Her person-centered philosophy emphasizes empathy and understanding, helping individuals navigate the complex journey of endometriosis with hope and resilience. Ana Arteaga-Biggs provides both in-person and virtual visits, ensuring accessible support for those facing the multifaceted challenges of this condition.

City: San Diego, CA

Visit types: Office/Hospital; Virtual

Spoken languages:  English and Spanish (native fluency)

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: My treatment approach is integrative, most heavily influenced by evidence-based, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and humanistic-existential theories. I address unique cultural experiences and various psychological systems that may be contributing to your presenting concerns through an intersectional lens. I approach each patient with endometriosis as an individual with their own unique experiences and needs. I remain empathic, open, and curious to understand all the areas of life that endometriosis has impacted their lives to help each patient identify their goals for treatment. I use evidence-based techniques to manage pain, address grief and trauma resulting from seeking a diagnosis, medical treatment, and navigate work/relationship difficulties from living with this painful disease.

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2 years ago

McCaul Butcher, PT, DPT

McCaul Butcher, PT, DPT

McCaul Butcher—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: McCaul Butcher, PT, DPT, is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist at Indigo Physiotherapy in Fairfax, Virginia. She takes a full-body, all-encompassing approach to care, combining manual interventions such as soft tissue and myofascial work with education, exercise, and movement retraining. This comprehensive approach helps patients regain optimal function while addressing the complex nature of endometriosis. McCaul prioritizes evidence-based, person-centered care, tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique needs. With a deep understanding of both the diagnosis and the person behind it, McCaul Butcher supports patients through their healing journey with warmth and professionalism.

City: Fairfax, VA

Visit types:  Office/Hospital

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I am very passionate about taking a full-body, all-encompassing approach to treating patients with endometriosis. I use a combination of manual interventions (soft tissue work, myofascial work), education, exercise, and movement retraining to regain optimal function. Understanding the complexity of the diagnosis and the person in front of me is so imperative to provide optimal, evidence-based, and person-centered care.
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2 years ago

Maggie Abrams, PT, DPT

Maggie Abrams, PT, DPT

Maggie Abrams—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Maggie Abrams, PT, DPT, is a skilled endometriosis physical therapist who works at Nourish Meditation in Dublin, Ohio. She specializes in visceral mobilization, or organ massage, to help patients manage symptoms and improve organ mobility associated with endometriosis. Her patient-centered approach uses gentle, targeted techniques designed to support healing and enhance overall pelvic health. By combining her expertise with compassionate care, she empowers clients to take an active role in symptom management and long-term wellness. Whether you are experiencing chronic pelvic pain or seeking preventive care, Maggie at Nourish Meditation offers personalized physical therapy tailored to your needs.

City: Dublin, OH

Visit types: Virtual

Spoken languages: English

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I empower clients to use organ massage (visceral mobilization) to help them manage their symptoms and maintain organ mobility.

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2 years ago

Isha Mody, PT, MS

Isha Mody, PT, MS

Isha Mody—Endometriosis Physical Therapist

Summary: Isha Mody, PT, MS, is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist based in New York City at Body Harmony Physical Therapy. With a strong focus on holistic and functional care, Isha integrates movement therapy, posture education, breathwork, and visceral mobilization to support the complex needs of individuals living with endometriosis. She uses a biopsychosocial approach, tailoring each session to address physical pain, emotional well-being, and daily functionality. She also emphasizes ergonomics and myofascial release to improve body mechanics and reduce discomfort. Her goal is to empower patients with the tools, knowledge, and guidance they need for long-term relief and recovery. Whether you’re navigating chronic pelvic pain or post-surgical rehabilitation, Isha Mody offers compassionate, expert care rooted in evidence and empathy.

City: New York, NY

Visit types: Office/Hospital

Spoken languages:  English, Hindi, Gujarati

Interpreting services for other languages: No

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe in using a functional approach, using movement therapy, posture education, ergonomics, breath work, visceral mobilization, myofascial release, and a biopsychosocial approach within my pelvic health practice.

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2 years ago

Dr. Paulami Guha, MD, FACOG

Dr. Paulami Guha

Paulami Guha MD – Gynecology & Minimal Invasive Surgery, Endometriosis Specialist

Summary: Dr Paulami Guha MD is a compassionate endometriosis specialist offering advanced care in Jacksonville, FL. Patients searching for expert support from Dr Guha Jacksonville FL can trust her thorough and personalized approach. With a strong belief in multimodal treatment, Dr Guha combines surgical excision—both robotic and laparoscopic—with medical management to address the full spectrum of endometriosis symptoms. She treats each patient holistically, considering physical, emotional, and reproductive needs. After excision, she commonly prescribes continuous hormonal therapies and offers guidance for those trying to conceive. When pain persists, Dr Paulami Guha MD integrates pelvic floor physical therapy, acupuncture, and menstrual suppression strategies to improve quality of life. Her balanced approach is rooted in coelomic metaplasia and Sampson’s theory, with a deep understanding of the disease’s complexity. Patients across Jacksonville and beyond seek Dr Guha for her expertise, empathy, and dedication to long-term healing.

City: Jacksonville, FL

Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: Coelomic Metaplasia; blockage in the reproductive tract, treating pain symptoms; multimodal management – surgical and medical, also addressing the mental component; surgical excision of endometriosis; medical management by suppression of menstruation and Sampson’s theory.

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

Medication: Surgical excision followed by continuous norethindrone vs. progestin-only pills vs OCPs. If the patient is waiting for surgery and is in pain or heavy bleeding, I do recommend GnRH antagonists or agonists. In infertility patients, I recommend trying for pregnancy right away. Have used letrozole in adenomyosis patients who are going to try for pregnancy.

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery:  For pain, I recommend pelvic floor physical therapy and acupuncture, and also suppression of menses.

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