In this episode, Dr. North breaks down the insurance-speak many clients struggle to navigate, talks about what it means to be an out-of-network provider, and shares what she is able to offer as an out-of-network provider that insurance-based practices cannot. She helps shed light on the complicated ins and outs of coverage and billing within healthcare and encourages her listeners to be their own health and wellness advocates.

Takeaways:

• Reflecting on the past year helps in setting future goals.
• Establishing a word of the year can guide personal growth.
• Refinement in personal and professional life is essential.
• Setting achievable and measurable goals is crucial.
• Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation.
• Balance between work and personal life is important.
• Community involvement enhances professional relationships.
• Continuous education is vital for clinicians.
• Self-reflection can lead to positive changes.
• Carving out time for self-care is necessary.

Takeaways:

Reflecting on the year can lead to personal growth.
Managing stress is crucial during the holiday season.
Active stress management techniques can improve well-being.
Taking moments throughout the day for self-care is essential.
Breathing exercises can help regulate the nervous system.
Mindfulness can enhance daily experiences and reduce stress.
Setting goals for the new year can foster motivation.
Recognizing triggers for stress can aid in symptom management.
Building resilience helps in managing future stressors.
Engaging with health professionals can provide personalized strategies.

Check out the website (www.northstardpt.com) for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

In this episode, I'm focusing on something that doesn't get talked about nearly enough: men's pelvic health.

November is the perfect time to recognize that pelvic health isn't just for postpartum women or those going through menopause — it's for everyone, including men and anyone assigned male at birth. The truth is, male and female pelvic anatomy is remarkably similar, and the pelvic floor plays critical roles in urinary function, bowel function, sexual function, organ support, pelvic stability, and lymphatic health — no matter your anatomy.

Yet so many men suffer in silence for years, dealing with symptoms like urinary leakage, hesitancy, incomplete emptying, bowel issues, erectile dysfunction, or pain during sex. These symptoms are often dismissed as "normal aging" or never brought up at all due to stigma or embarrassment.

But here's the truth: these are treatable conditions, and pelvic health physical therapy can help.

Let's get into:

• Why men have pelvic floors too — and why they matter
• Common urinary, bowel, and sexual symptoms men experience
• How pelvic health connects to hip pain, low back pain, and mobility
• The role of stress, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle habits
• Why internal pelvic assessments can be game-changing
• Real client success stories
• How to find a men's pelvic health specialist
• Breaking the stigma around male pelvic health

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I tackle one of the most common — yet often misunderstood — symptoms I see in the clinic: urinary urgency and frequency.

I explain why this isn't just a postpartum issue or a normal part of aging, how multiple body systems can contribute to these symptoms, and why tracking your patterns is the most powerful tool you have for getting answers.

From understanding what's actually "normal" for bladder function to uncovering hidden triggers like posture, nervous system tension, and lifestyle habits, this episode is essential listening for anyone dealing with constant bathroom trips or that "gotta go NOW" feeling.

Let’s get into:

• What urinary urgency and frequency really mean
• Why this happens to anybody — not just those who are postpartum or perimenopausal
• Normal vs. abnormal urination patterns
• The detective work behind pelvic health evaluations
• Hidden triggers: posture, stress, medications, and more
• The pelvic floor's role (and why Kegels aren't always the answer)
• Why tracking is your most powerful tool
• How lifestyle tweaks can reduce symptoms
• When to seek help from a pelvic health PT

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I dive into one of the most important — and fastest-growing — trends in physical therapy: the powerful connection between pelvic health and lymphatic health.

I explain why clinicians who understand both systems are becoming increasingly sought after, how this dual expertise allows for more comprehensive care, and why more patients are seeking out specialists who can see the body as an integrated whole rather than in separate parts.

From understanding how the pelvic floor acts as a lymphatic pump to the importance of ongoing professional education and multi-system assessment, this episode is a must-listen for both patients and providers who want to understand the “why” behind this emerging, whole-body approach to care.

Let’s get into:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• A new trend in physical therapy
• Understanding lymphedema and lipedema
• The need for comprehensive, whole-body care
• Pelvic floor as a lymphatic pump
• How pelvic and lymphatic therapy overlap
• Training and scope of care
• The role of education and advocacy
• Specialized care for complex conditions
• How NorthStar PT bridges the gap
• A message to clinicians and clients

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this special anniversary episode, I reflect on three years of NorthStar Physical Therapy — from humble beginnings as a mobile practice to now being a thriving brick-and-mortar clinic serving Northern Virginia and beyond.

I also open up about the challenges of being a small business owner in healthcare, our  journey toward building a concierge-style practice, and why our mission to provide expert, compassionate, and holistic pelvic and lymphatic care continues to guide everything we do. 

Further, I highlight October as both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Physical Therapy Awareness Month, sharing how these observances connect directly to our specialties in pelvic and lymphatic health at NorthStar Physical Therapy, and why holistic, one-on-one care matters for survivors and all clients alike.

Let’s dive into:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Starting the practice - From mobile visits across Northern Virginia → to subleasing space → to building a permanent brick-and-mortar clinic.
• Why concierge care matters
• Challenges of small business ownership
• October celebrations
• Pelvic health & breast cancer connection
• Importance of specialized therapy
• The fascia connection
• Holistic screening approach
• The NorthStar difference
• Closing gratitude

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will explore what it really takes to safely return to running, sport, or impact activities after pregnancy — and why these principles apply to anyone getting back into higher-level movement after time away.

From pelvic floor recovery to orthopedic alignment, footwear, and strength training, I will share how our Return to Sport/Return to Run screen helps identify imbalances and prepare the body for long-term success. 

Whether your goal is running a marathon, joining group fitness, or just playing hopscotch with your kids without leakage, this episode gives you a roadmap to getting back to the activities you love with confidence!

Let’s talk about:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Why pelvic floor evaluation (internal and external) plus orthopedic screening are essential before impact activity.
• The role of footwear, belly bands, and bras in supporting tissue during pregnancy and recovery.
•  A 12–15 activity assessment including squats, planks, bridges, single-leg drills, lunges, and running mechanics.
• All about running: Training must reflect that to build strength and reduce injury risk.
• How parents wanting to play on trampolines or jog in emergencies benefit from impact prep
• Why analyzing gait and videoing runs at the point symptoms can reveal key imbalances
• How training endurance, trunk strength, calf function, and multidirectional movement supports long-term goals
• Why true return-to-sport rehab must include endurance, footwear checks, impact tolerance, and functional drills
• In-person and virtual consultations to bring return-to-sport care to more people
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

In this special awareness episode, I will highlight two important health observances that fall in September: Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Lymphoma Awareness Month. With my unique dual specialty in pelvic health and lymphatic health, I will explore with you how these conditions overlap, what symptoms to watch for, and why it’s critical to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system.

I will also share  how pelvic floor and lymphedema therapy can help cancer patients not only survive but thrive — addressing quality-of-life concerns like bladder, bowel, and sexual function, along with swelling, pain, and fatigue from treatment.

This is an empowering call to action: listen to your body, seek answers, and know that holistic, specialized care is available to support you!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Why awareness months matter
• Ovarian cancer and pelvic health
• Role of pelvic PT in cancer care
• The lymphatic system explained
• Lymphoma and lymphatic dysfunction
• The unique overlap
• Advocacy tips
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

In this episode, I break down the newer, more accurate terminology that's revolutionizing how we understand hormonal changes and pelvic health symptoms.

Discover why "vaginal atrophy" and "geriatric vagina" are outdated, harmful terms, and learn about Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause and Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation. I explain how estrogen affects your entire pelvic region, why you might feel like you have chronic UTIs that keep testing negative, and what you can actually do about these very common symptoms.

If you've been told your symptoms are just "normal aging," been prescribed unnecessary antibiotics for negative UTI tests, or feeling dismissed about hormonal changes, this episode will give you the knowledge and terminology to advocate for proper care.

Let’s talk about:

• Understanding the new terminology: Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause vs outdated terms
• Why perimenopause symptoms can start 10 years before actual menopause
• The hormonal rollercoaster: estrogen and progesterone fluctuations explained
• Common urinary symptoms that aren't actually UTIs
• Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation and postpartum hormonal changes
• Why vaginal estrogen might be the solution you've been looking for
• The importance of internal pelvic exams with qualified providers
• Breaking the cycle of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will reveal the powerful connection between lipedema, lymphedema, and pelvic health — a connection that most healthcare providers miss entirely.

Discover why your pelvic floor muscles are literally acting as a lymphatic pump and how connective tissue dysfunction ties these conditions together. Dr. North explains why hypermobility, bladder issues, sexual dysfunction, and chronic pain might all be connected to the same underlying problem.

If you've been dealing with lipedema, unexplained pelvic symptoms, or feeling like providers aren't seeing the "whole picture," this episode will give you the missing pieces to understand your body holistically.

Let's talk about: 

• The 6 core functions of your pelvic floor 
• Understanding the real connective tissue dysfunction behind painful nodules and medical gaslighting
• The hypermobility connection 
• Why tight isn't always right 
• The trampoline analogy 
• Breaking down pain with penetration, orgasm difficulties, and why pelvic exams shouldn't hurt
• How hypermobility affects tearing risk and delivery outcomes
• Manual lymphatic drainage secrets 
• Why I always check pelvic health when treating lipedema and lymphedema patients
• The surprising list of people who should get regular pelvic floor evaluations (spoiler: it's almost everyone)

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about pregnancy and labor prep programs, and why they should be considered standard care for all pregnant individuals.

From understanding pelvic floor function, to preparing for both vaginal and C-section deliveries, to evaluating movement, posture, and pain management — I will help you understand why tailored programs are essential and how virtual options can still offer support when done right.

If you're pregnant, planning to be, or supporting someone through pregnancy, this episode will help you understand how a comprehensive, evidence-informed, individualized approach makes all the difference!

Let’s talk about:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The importance of accessibility
• What a comprehensive pregnancy program includes
• C-section is still birth
• Vaginal birth prep AND C-section education
• Full-body evaluation and functional movement
• Labor positioning and breathwork
• Getting partners involved
• Why strengthening AND flexibility matter
• Customizing care
• The role of pelvic floor PT before, during, and after pregnancy

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this special collaboration episode, I am  joined by Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano, licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Peace of Mindfulness, to explore the deep connection between mental health, pelvic health, and the nervous system.

Together, we unpack the value of integrated care—where pelvic floor therapy and psychological support work hand-in-hand to address postpartum recovery, perimenopause, trauma, identity shifts, sexual health, and stress management.

If you’ve ever wondered how your mental and emotional state influences your pelvic floor—or why healing your body involves more than just muscles—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, you’ll also learn:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Amanda reframes therapy as a tool for wellness, not just crisis, especially for new moms and those navigating life transitions.
• Why collaboration matters
• Understanding the nervous system
• The pelvic floor & emotional holding
• Mindfulness & body literacy
• Common emotional overlaps
• Breathwork practices that work
• Tips for clients & providers
• Mindfulness for the whole family
• Amanda explains why finding the right therapist matters and offers free 15-minute consults to ensure good alignment
• Final thoughts

About Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano, PsyD

Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano is a licensed clinical psychologist who is passionate about breaking down the stigma of therapy and helping people understand that seeking therapy is about health and wellness. In addition to working with individual clients and couples, Dr. Skowron Romano provides workshops and presentations bringing mindfulness into corporations, schools, and healthcare settings. Dr. Skowron Romano has extensive specialized training in Mindfulness and Acceptance Based Interventions. She has conducted research on mindfulness and published articles about postpartum depression. Her passion is to work with a clinical focus on prevention and wellness. 

Reach out to her here: https://www.peaceofmindfulnessllc.com/ 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this eye-opening episode, I tackle one of the most misunderstood diagnoses in men’s health: prostatitis. While pelvic pain in men is often automatically labeled as prostatitis and treated with antibiotics, I will explain why this may be misdiagnosed, and how pelvic floor dysfunction, nerve tension, lymphatic congestion, or even constipation might be the real root cause.

With compassion and clarity, let me walk you through how to properly evaluate and address male pelvic pain, why antibiotics aren't always the answer, and why pelvic floor physical therapy should be first-line care in these situations.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is prostatitis, really?
• Why pelvic pain without infection should NOT be treated with antibiotics
• Differentiating prostatitis from constipation, pelvic floor tension, and nerve entrapment
• How pelvic floor PT helps
• Erectile dysfunction, bladder hesitancy, and pain with sex
• Encouraging men to speak up, ask questions, and seek out a pelvic floor physical therapist
• Lymphatic involvement in male pelvic pain
• Conclusion 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In honor of Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day, let me shed some light on a topic that’s often overlooked: pelvic health for men. In this open and informative conversation, I break down what the male pelvic floor does, why it's important, and how issues like urinary urgency, constipation, erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, and more can be treated — not just tolerated.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone with male anatomy or those supporting someone who does. Whether you're navigating prostate concerns, recovering from surgery, or dealing with unexplained pain or function issues, I will help you understand how pelvic floor therapy can make a life-changing difference!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Men have pelvic floors too - Bladder, bowel, and sexual function are just as important in male anatomy.
• Common symptoms that need attention
• Tension vs. weakness
• Prostatitis and misdiagnosis
• Respectful, clear care for male clients
• The role of hip mobility and global body mechanics
• Erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular health
• Normalizing pelvic health conversations

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this heartfelt episode of North Star Physical Therapy Podcast, I take a meaningful pause from my usual medical-focused content to celebrate Pride Month and discuss the importance of inclusive healthcare. Everybody has a pelvis and everybody has a lymphatic system - all deserve optimal care regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This episode highlights my passion for celebrating diversity while maintaining expertise in pelvic and lymphatic health. Tune in as I share real client stories and emphasize that respect and understanding are fundamental to healthcare!

In this episode, you'll also learn:

• Why Pride Month matters in healthcare settings
• The importance of inclusive language in medical practice
• Pre- and post-surgical pelvic floor therapy for gender-affirming procedures
• How to address sexual function concerns regardless of anatomy or orientation
• The complexity and beauty of working with diverse client histories
• Why trauma-informed care includes asking about pronouns and preferred terminology
• How lifestyle factors affect pelvic health across all populations
• Dr. North's personal journey of learning from the LGBTQ+ community

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

Dr. North dives into how hormonal changes, tissue health, lymphatic flow, and lifestyle factors all impact pelvic floor function and whole-body well-being during this transformative stage of life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex (and often confusing) journey of perimenopause and beyond.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is perimenopause and when does it start?
• Genetics, lifestyle, and hormone changes
• Pelvic floor tissue changes during perimenopause
• The importance of lymphatic health
• Manual lymphatic drainage and compression strategies
• Pelvic floor therapy during perimenopause
• Active stress management techniques
• Holistic view: Whole body, whole life
• Being your own health advocate

In this episode, Dr. Shirlea North, pelvic floor and lymphatic health specialist, shares her expertise on the vital role pelvic floor and lymphatic therapy plays throughout the peripartum journey — from fertility to postpartum recovery. 

Whether you’re trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or navigating postpartum life, this episode explores how a whole-body approach to therapy can help manage symptoms, support healing, and empower you to take control of your health in ways not typically covered by standard care.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of pelvic floor therapy before conception, during pregnancy, and postpartum.
• How lymphatic care supports healing and circulation during pregnancy.
• What to check for before trying to conceive, including scar tissue, soft tissue flexibility, and movement.
• Strategies to optimize labor and reduce injury through movement, mechanics, and breath.
• How early intervention can address pelvic congestion and venous insufficiency.
• Why postpartum recovery takes time, and how pelvic PT can guide functional movement and tissue healing.
• The benefits of virtual postpartum visits for early support, even before the six-week check-up.
• Why the postpartum journey is about more than pelvic floor exercises, including breastfeeding and lymphatic drainage.

Tune in to learn how pelvic floor and lymphatic care should be part of your peripartum health strategy and how to take charge of your wellness from fertility to beyond birth.

In this episode, Dr. Shirlea North, PT, DPT, revisits the debate surrounding Kegels — a common but often misunderstood recommendation for pelvic floor health. Are Kegels really the answer for everyone? Dr. North explores when Kegels are beneficial, when they may cause harm, and alternative approaches to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor.

If you’ve been told to do Kegels or you’re struggling with issues like urinary leakage, pelvic pain, or core instability, this episode will guide you through a more personalized approach to pelvic health.

In this episode, you’ll also learn:

• What Kegels are and how they became a go-to solution 
• The difference between a tight (hypertonic) and weak (hypotonic) pelvic floor 
• Who should benefit from Kegels, and who should avoid them 
• Alternatives to Kegels for pelvic health and functional strength 
• The role of Kegels in postpartum recovery and prostatectomy rehabilitation 
• The truth about machines that promise Kegel exercises without effort 
• When to seek professional help from a pelvic floor therapist

Tune in to understand when Kegels are helpful and when they’re not, and learn the best strategies for your unique pelvic health needs.

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will be sharing with you my guesting in the podcast “Empowered with Ash.” Together, we dive into why the pelvic and lymphatic systems are so interconnected and how addressing pelvic floor function can improve overall health, reduce pain, and even enhance fertility.

I also share my holistic approach to treating patients, breaking down common myths about pelvic health, the importance of lymphatic drainage, and how proper care can help with postpartum recovery, perimenopause, and beyond. 

This episode is packed with valuable insights, humor, and actionable advice to help you advocate for your health. Make sure to listen to this episode and share with someone you know will love to hear about what we have to say! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is pelvic health and why does it matter?
• The keystone of the body
• Common misconceptions about pelvic floor issues
• How pelvic floor therapy helps at every stage of life
• The surprising connection between the pelvic floor and the lymphatic system
• Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and why it’s trending
• The truth about Kegels
• Sexual health & pelvic therapy
• How to be your own health advocate
• Virtual consultations available with Dr. North

Ashleigh is an online health and fitness coach who helps busy women repair their metabolism, lose fat, and build confidence through sustainable habits. She focuses on two main groups: women who’ve neglected themselves and want to become a priority again, and women who are working hard but not seeing results. Using a holistic health approach, she helps clients integrate workouts, nutrition, and mindset shifts in a way that fits their lifestyle. Her method emphasizes long-term sustainability and well-being, covering areas like movement, sleep, and mental health. She also shares strategies, education, and mindset tips through her podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-empowered-with-ash-podcast/id1705070175 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between lymphatic health and pelvic floor function. As a specialist in both areas, I explain how lymphatic congestion can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, bloating, urinary issues, and even pain with intercourse. 

I also discuss how pelvic floor muscles act as a natural "sump pump" to move lymphatic fluid and why a holistic approach is crucial for treating both conditions effectively.

Hope that you find this episode helpful!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic - Exploring how lymphatic health and pelvic floor function are closely linked
• Anatomy Basics: The lymphatic system and pelvic floor muscles
• The pelvic floor as a "sump pump"
• Common causes of lymphatic congestion
• Symptoms of pelvic lymphatic congestion
• Manual lymphatic drainage techniques
• Collaboration between pelvic health and lymphatic specialists
• Kegels: Helpful or harmful?
• Genital lymphedema and post-surgical swelling
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode of the NorthStar Physical Therapy Podcast,I am joined by Dr. Kevin Ward, a chiropractor based in Fairfax, Virginia. Together, we discuss the powerful collaboration between chiropractic care and pelvic floor physical therapy. We break down how these two specialties complement each other to provide optimal care for patients dealing with joint pain, pelvic dysfunction, and postpartum recovery.

We share real-life patient examples, highlight the importance of alignment and stability, and debunk misconceptions about our respective fields.

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Meet Dr. Kevin Ward
• The role of chiropractic care in joint mobility
• Pelvic floor physical therapy for stabilization
• Case Study: Treating pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy
• Postpartum recovery and spinal health
• Tailbone pain: External vs. internal treatment approaches
• The importance of breathing and pressure management
• Debunking the "Kegels fix everything" myth
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I dive into the importance of proper sitting posture and how it impacts our daily lives. From work and driving to toileting, menstrual device usage, and even sexual positions, sitting plays a crucial role in our overall health. 

I explain how to adjust your posture for comfort and function, and why working with a pelvic floor physical therapist can be life-changing for those experiencing pain in seated positions.

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Anatomy Basics
• Workplace ergonomics and car seating adjustments
• Sitting and toileting function
• Sitting and menstrual device usage
• Sitting and sex: Managing pain and improving comfort
• Practical sitting adjustments for pain relief
• Virtual consultations available
• My online guidance for individuals struggling with seated posture-related pain
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For this episode, let’s talk about Intercourse and Dyspareunia. As Valentine’s Day is coming up, I would like you to normalize talking about sex. 

Sex is meant to be pleasurable, but for many, whether you are a man, woman, or identify as part of the LGBTQ community, it can be a source of pain and frustration. Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, is more common than you might think, yet it’s often misunderstood or dismissed. 

In this episode, we’re breaking the silence on this important topic—exploring the causes, misconceptions, and solutions to help women reclaim comfort and confidence in their intimate lives. Whether you’ve experienced it firsthand or want to better understand it, this conversation is for you!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to dyspareunia and its impact on quality of life
• Biomechanical factors contributing to pain during penetration
• The detailed questions pelvic floor therapists ask to identify root causes
• Examples of conditions that pelvic floor therapy can address, from sexual discomfort to medical exams
• The role of pelvic angles and positions in alleviating pain
• Tools and products (like dilators and the O-nut) that can assist therapy
• Conclusion: Encouragement for listeners to seek help and normalize the conversation about pain with penetration

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For this episode, let’s dive into what the Abdominal Canister is and the types of breathing that would best support your abdominal canister. 

Learn how proper breathing techniques and pressure management impact pelvic health, posture, and overall functionality. I explain how this approach benefits a wide range of individuals, from postpartum moms to office workers, weightlifters, and those experiencing back or pelvic floor issues.

If you found this episode helpful, please feel free to share it to someone who needs to know more about the Abdominal Canister!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Anatomy Basics: The abdominal canister and its components
• The role of 360-degree breathing
• Postpartum considerations
• Why posture matters
• Breathing and movement coordination
• Practical tips for daily integration
• Virtual consultations available at NorthStar Physical Therapy 
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For the very first episode this 2025, I will be sharing with you all about Urinary Incontinence: what it is, the types, the causes, and other basic information that can help you understand more about this condition. Also, I will be sharing different treatment options you can consider as well as the role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in relation to improving your symptoms. 

I wanted to talk about Urinary Incontinence because I want you to be able to pinpoint or at least have a guide on what are common and what are not when it comes to your health! Further, after this podcast, I hope you know that although some urinary incontinence symptoms are common, it does not mean that they are a normal part of aging. So please, talk to your provider and advocate for yourself this 2025!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction
• Defining Urinary Incontinence
• Types of Urinary Incontinence
• Causes of Incontinence
• Addressing Misconceptions
• Lifestyle Modifications for Treatment
• Importance of Comprehensive Assessments
• The Role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
• Discussion on Antibiotics and Misdiagnosed UTIs
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This is a very special episode as we will be reflecting on the year 2024. I will let you in on what have been the developments this year as I do my best to deliver the best podcast and medical advice that can hopefully aid you one way or another!

Wishing you all the happiest of holidays and a prosperous New Year! I am excited to bring more education to you through the NorthStar Physical Therapy podcast this 2025! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction
• Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth
• The Expansion of North Star Physical Therapy
• Serving the LGBTQ+ Community
• The Importance of Self-Care
• Reconnecting with Fitness
• Lessons from Clients
• Reflection and SWOT Analysis
• Navigating Loss and Perspective
• Advice for 2025
• Closing Thoughts

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For this episode, let’s talk about the pelvic muscle movers and stabilizers. Our muscles need to be strong and flexible. That’s why this episode is a great way for you to learn more about the pelvic muscle movers and stabilizers so you can empower yourself with the knowledge on how to make them stronger and more flexible. Also, this episode will help you understand the interconnectedness of these muscles with the other parts of our body that could cause pelvic floor-related symptoms. 

I hope you will learn a lot from this episode! 

• Let’s discuss:
• Introduction to today’s topic
• Anatomy Basics: Overview of pelvic muscles
• Similarities in male and female pelvic floors
• Importance of pelvic muscle interconnectedness
• Fascia and connective tissue: The body’s connective network
• Orthopedic connections to the pelvic floor
• Muscle imbalances and their impact
• Holistic assessment approach
• Practical treatment insights
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Lisa Clarkson from Dancing Tree Physical Therapy brings her expertise in functional medicine, focusing on the body's ability to heal and thrive through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
• Jennifer Youngen from Custom Care Physical Therapy specializes in orthopedic care for older athletes, helping individuals maintain mobility and strength as they age.
• Lastly, I, Dr. Shirlea North from NorthStar Physical Therapy, specializes in pelvic health and lymphatic health, empowering women to improve their overall well-being through focused care.

In this workshop, you’ll hear an introduction to each specialty and gain actionable insights into what women can do NOW to optimize their health.

We welcome your feedback and look forward to bringing you more workshops in the new year!

Stay tuned for upcoming sessions, and don’t forget to share this knowledge with others who may benefit!

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This episode let’s take some time talking about vaginal estrogen, moisturizers, and lubes. This topic may be taboo to many, but it’s a very important one that we need to shed some light on. 

Lubrication is not just for penetrative sex because it is likewise essential for reducing irritation, preventing infections, and more. Further, the tissues in our vaginal area need to be protected just like when we put lotion on our skin and moisturizer on our face! 

Also, for the listeners out there who are in there perimenopausal and postmenopausal stages, we will be talking about vaginal estrogen and the changes that could happen and what you can do to adapt to these changes. 

So please, listen to this episode to educate yourself and protect yourself as you age!  

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Anatomy Basics: Explanation of vulvar and vaginal tissues
• Importance of knowing correct anatomical terms for better healthcare communication
• Why lubrication is essential for reducing irritation, preventing infections, and improving comfort during penetration or perineal massage
• Types of lubricants: Water-based, silicone-based, oil-based, and natural options like coconut oil
• Type of lubricants to avoid
• Vaginal Moisturizer
• Vaginal Estrogen
• Why vaginal estrogen is crucial for perimenopausal and postmenopausal tissue health and symptoms it addresses
• Reassurance about safety
• Advocacy for open conversations with healthcare providers to normalize its use
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This episode is all about the critical role of pelvic floor physical therapy before and after prostatectomies. I want to discuss this important topic because when you have the male organ, there is a likelihood that as you age, that organ may not be operating optimally. 

I will be sharing with you the pre-operative therapy you may consider in order to improve the post-op outcomes. 

Please listen to this episode so that you empower yourself with options on how you can take better care of yourself post-op! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Why Prostate Health Matters
• Common symptoms that might indicate prostate or pelvic floor issues
• How pelvic floor physical therapists assess urinary function, hydration, posture, and more to provide holistic care
• Preparing for Prostate Surgery: The benefits of pre-operative therapy to improve post-op outcomes.
• Post-Surgery Recovery: A look at the 4-week post-op timeline for catheter removal and the gradual return of urinary function, plus tips on managing expectations
• Highlighting the partnership between pelvic floor therapists and urologists/surgeons for effective, holistic healing
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This episode is all about Men’s Pelvic Health. Men’s pelvic health is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in overall well-being. 

In this episode, we dive into the basics of pelvic health for men and addressing common concerns like pelvic pain, incontinence, and sexual health. 

Despite its importance, many men feel uncomfortable bringing it up with their healthcare providers. Listen as we break the stigma, offering practical insights and encouraging men to have honest conversations with their doctors. No topic is too embarrassing when it comes to your health!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic: Men’s pelvic health
• Common urinary symptoms men experience
• Bowel symptoms
• Sexual health: Addressing hypersensitivity, difficulty with arousal, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation
• Discussion on the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction in penetrative and receptive sexual activities
• Connections between pelvic health, cardiovascular health, and overall wellness
• Diastasis recti in men
• Hernias and their connection with pelvic floor health
• The importance of optimizing hip, spine, and rib mobility for pelvic floor health
• Conclusion: Encouragement for men to speak openly about their pelvic health

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This episode is all about your Bowel Movements and how knowing more about this does your body good! We will go over the stool consistency and the motility and transit time as well as the connection between your hormonal health and gut health. I will also be throwing in some tips for better bowel movement. 

There is no shame in observing your bowels because the little observations that you make already tell a lot about your nutritional wellbeing and hormonal health. So, I hope you listen to this episode and you learn a lot from it!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Normal Bowel Movements and the importance of it
• Stool Consistency 
• Stool consistency reflecting Hydration and Diet
• Motility and Transit Time
• Bowel Movements and its correlation with Hormonal Regulation
• Importance of Physical Activity in bowel motility 
• Behavioral Patterns and how it affects bowel habits 
• Interconnectedness of Symptoms and how a pelvic floor physical therapist can help
• Key Takeaways
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

This episode is all about Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, Breast Cancer, and the relation of the two. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so this topic is just timely to talk about!

You might wonder what is the relationship between our pelvic floor and breast cancer that’s why I encourage you to listen to this episode. Arm yourselves with the right information that you could use for your own consumption or share with someone who needs to know more about them! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Breast Cancer Awareness Month and why you should do regular self-breast exams
• Pelvic Floor Connection to Breast Cancer and why is Pelvic floor physical therapy essential for those going through or recovering from breast cancer treatment
• Common Breast Cancer Treatments
• Systemic Effects of Treatment that can potentially lead to pelvic floor dysfunction
• Sexual Dysfunction Statistics
• The Impact of Chemotherapy in the pelvic area 
• Surgical Implications that can affect the pelvic floor 
• Psychological and Emotional Effects and how Pelvic floor therapy also addresses these impacts 
• Pelvic Floor Therapy Interventions
• Conclusion 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In relation to Pain Awareness Month, let’s talk about the menstrual cycle that women go through every single month and what a giant pain that is! 

As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I often talk about the menstrual cycle with my clients because it does play a role to how our body responds to things and I can prescribe exercises and activities to alleviate the pain felt during this time of the month. 

Listen to this episode and empower yourself understanding your cycle and the phases that your body goes through. It is normal to feel pain during our menstrual cycles, but certain changes can be done to help us cope better. Be an advocate for yourself! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Discussion on the challenges faced by individuals with a uterus during their menstrual cycle
• Pelvic floor physical therapy's role in managing pain related to the menstrual cycle
• Importance of tracking the menstrual cycle
• The normal cycle length of menstruation
• Phases of the Menstrual Cycle, symptoms for each cycle, and what you ought to do during each phase
• Exercise Prescription Based on Menstrual Cycle
• The need for collaboration with other providers
• Real-life stories on the unpredictability of the menstrual cycle
• Seasonal Health Consideration
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

September is Healthy Aging Month so for today’s episode, we will be talking about some aging myths regarding our pelvis. These myths and facts are very important to learn about because as we age, our pelvic functions are also changing. 

We will be focusing on the common symptoms in relation to our urinary function, bowel function, and sexual function as we age that are not at all normal! 

Please listen to this episode and share this with someone you know who needs to hear and learn about these. Be an advocate for yourself! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Main function of the Pelvis
• Urinary function: What’s normal and what’s not as we age
• Bowel function: What’s normal and what’s not as we age
• Sexual function and sexual activities as we age and what’s not normal
• Role of stress and stress management in pelvic function
• Symptoms that need to be addressed by a pelvic floor physical therapist
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For today’s episode, let’s talk about what happens when you see a Certified Lymphedema Therapist for lymphedema or lipedema. 

CLTs are comprehensive and holistic providers. We take a step back and we look at everything so that we can better help you manage or treat your lymphedema or lipedema. I am also a Physical Therapist so I also look at lymphedema and lipedema in the eyes of a Physical Therapist. 

In this episode let’s dive into the benefits of working with a CLT, the key parts of treating lymphedema or lipedema, the “Village Approach” and so much more! 

I hope that this episode will help you understand how a CLT can best serve you and your interests. Please, reach out to us if you are looking to work with a CLT! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today's topic: What happens when one sees a certified lymphedema therapist or CLT for lymphedema or lipedema
• The comprehensive and holistic approach of CLTs
• Importance of Certification
• International Influence: The stand of the United States on lymphedema and lipedema care compared to other countries
• Getting personalized treatment when seeing a CLT
• The Physical Therapy component of lymphedema or lipedema
• CLTs on educating patients
• The key parts of treating lymphedema or lipedema
• CLTs as problem solvers
• What you get when working with a CLT
• Special Considerations for Lipedema
• The "Village" Approach
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For today’s episode, let’s talk about Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, otherwise known as Pelvic Venous Insufficiency. Let’s dive into what it is and who helps treat it! 

As a lymphedema therapist, and a pelvic floor physical therapist, I often see patients who have this condition and help them get the help that they need to manage and later on treat the symptoms that go with this condition. In this episode, I will also share with you the providers you can work with and the treatment options you can choose from. 

I hope that this episode will help you understand where that pain is coming from. Know that you don’t have to live with it because we can help you. Please, reach out to us if you feel like you have the symptoms outlined in this podcast! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today's topic: Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), also known as pelvic venous insufficiency.
• Chronic pain condition related to blood flow in the pelvic veins
• Dr. North on PCS pain
• Signs, Symptoms and Risk Factors of PCS
• Role of Pelvic floor physical therapists for PCS
• Diagnostic tools: Ultrasound, MRI, CT scans, pelvic venography 
• Treatment options for PCS
• Importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving pelvic floor physical therapists, lymphedema therapists, vein specialists, and endocrinologists
• Dr. North on holistic treatment for patients
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For today’s episode, let’s talk about very hot topics regarding men’s pelvic health. These topics are interstitial cystitis, chronic bladder pain syndrome, and chronic prostatitis. Do these symptoms always stem from bladder issues? Let’s break it down and understand how we can check for the root cause better! 

I will also share with you the pelvic floor physical therapy’s role in order to help men overcome and manage these symptoms. 

I hope that this episode helps men understand more about their pelvic floor health so that they do not just live with it. Let a Pelvic Floor Physical therapist help you by empowering yourself with the necessary information so you can start championing for your own health!  

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic 
• Recent increase in awareness of men’s pelvic health
• Common symptoms associated with interstitial cystitis and chronic pelvic pain
• Discussion on the misconception that these symptoms are always due to bladder issues
• Explanation of how only a small percentage of patients actually have bladder problems
• Importance of keeping a bladder and bowel diary
• Evaluation of dietary habits and potential irritants
• Comprehensive approach to assessing the pelvic floor, including muscles, nerves, and joints
• Techniques for urge suppression and relaxation
• Addressing chronic feedback loops in the nervous system
• Manual therapy techniques for scar tissue and other physical issues
• Working with mental health professionals to manage stress and trauma
• Importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care
• Emphasis on individualized care plans and the journey to recovery
• Conclusion 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will be all about perimenopause and menopause and what is the role of Physical Therapists to help women undergoing such stage in their lives. We will also be talking about functional medicine, checking out your pelvis, and the importance of your hormonal health. There are so many changes happening in a woman’s body during these stages and I am here to share with you how you can better manage them. 

I hope that this episode helps you understand more about what you can do for your health in this stage of your life while working with a Physical Therapist!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• When do hormonal changes happen in a woman’s life
• The average menopausal age and factors that affect menopause age
• When do women start getting menopause symptoms according to statistics 
• Cycle tracking: What is it and how does a PT help in this 
• The role of functional medicine during perimenopause and menopause 
• Checking out the pelvis: Another big role of PT during perimenopause and menopause
• Importance of checking your hormonal health with a PT to better navigate the perimenopause and menopause stage
• Conclusion 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will answer the question many of you might be wondering about: to Kegel or not to Kegel. A lot of people do not know what a Kegel is that’s why I want to educate you about what it is, how you might be overdoing it, and when a Kegel is appropriate to help with a pelvic floor symptom. 

I hope that this episode helps you understand more about what you can do for your health when you are experiencing pelvic floor symptoms and realize that Kegel training isn’t always the answer for all the problems down there!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is a Kegel?
• Overdoing Kegels: How I notice this with a lot of people 
• Myths and truths about Kegel training
• What we should do as physical therapists during the assessment of the pelvic floor
• How and when Kegels become helpful and beneficial 
• Kegel during urinating: Why you shouldn’t do it and the only time you should do it
• Conclusion
  
  

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am so excited to share this episode with you because I got to bring in a very good colleague of mine, Casey White from White HART Massage. 

We will be diving into physical therapy and manual therapy and how these two practices intertwine and help each other. Casey and I will also discuss with you some of the instances that I refer patients to her, and when she refers patients to me. We are a community and we work together hand-in-hand so that we can help you get better faster! 

We hope that you learn a lot from this episode so that you can be an advocate for yourself and understand better what avenues you can take so you can keep being your best self, and living your best life! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s guest and today’s topic
• Who is Casey and how did she get into massage therapy 
• How can a massage therapist become a licensed massage therapist 
• Casey on continuing education to keep her license and to keep her skills sharp 
• The collaboration between massage therapists and physical therapists
• The importance of collaboration and communication between physical therapists and massage therapists
• Situations that Casey refers to physical therapists
• Things that set Casey apart from other massage therapists
• Importance of talking to your providers/practitioners 
• Conclusion
  
  

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

For today’s episode, we will be talking about Diastasis Recti. Let’s shed light on the reason why Diastasis Recti should not be solely associated with pregnant women or be regarded as a postpartum condition. Anyone can have it and when I say everyone, men aren’t an exception in experiencing this condition. 

I will also be sharing with you what Diastasis Recti really is, when it becomes a problem, the associated symptoms, how to treat it, and how I assess my patients who have this condition. 

Know that Diastasis Recti is definitely something we can work on together so that you continue to live your best life! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Busting myths: Who really experiences Diastasis Recti? Is it just pregnant and postpartum women? 
• What is Diastasis Recti
• When does Diastasis Recti actually become a problem
• How to treat Diastasis Recti
• How I assess and treat my patients who have Diastasis Recti
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will be about how Physical Therapy can help with Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP). I will share with you what POP is, its types, the best providers who can help you with this, and how physical therapy plays a role in helping you heal from POP. 

So many people suffer from POP and they may think that it is normal or common with aging, but know that although it is common, it is never normal and it can be treated! Don’t live your life being limited by POP so listen to this episode so you can learn more about how to deal with it! 

Let’s discuss:

• Some exciting announcements!
• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) and the different types of prolapse 
• What I am able to do and not do as a pelvic floor physical therapist and how I do the assessments 
• How POP can sometimes be over diagnosed for normal movement and how do I assess this as a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
• When is POP really a POP
• When is it appropriate for Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists to refer or co-manage patients with POP
• A visualization of how POP happens
• Devices that you can use to support your POP
• How can physical therapists work on the conservative aspect of POP
• When will you need a pessary or surgery
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will be a bit different as I am sharing with you an episode where I was a guest. The podcast is called Babywearing & Breastfeeding: Nurturing Miracles by Meagan Pa, a lactation consultant. We will be talking a lot about pelvic floor physical therapy, its importance, postpartum care, and so much more in this episode so I hope you give this a listen so you can learn a thing or two about your body! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction for Dr. Shirlea North: What led her to become a physical therapist
• The Pelvic Floor: What is it and why is it important especially for women during pregnancy
• Dr. Shirlea North on Kegels
• Why would you want to figure out your pelvic floor status and how it impacts birth according to Megan 
• Dr. Shirlea North on preparing the tissues by getting into different positions and stretching them, does pregnancy hormones help the tissues, and if it’s enough for the pelvic floor muscles
• Accessing the pelvic floor muscles internally versus externally
• Dr. Shirlea North on postpartum: Works that need to be done to strengthen the pelvic muscles again
• Megan on tests that moms can take postpartum and how to take care of yourself while taking care of your babyPre-birth and postpartum pelvic floor care for moms who gave birth via C-section versus moms who gave birth vaginally
• Dr. Shirlea North on whether women still deal with incontinence issues when they gave birth via C-section
• Dr. Shirlea North on diet: Does it affect the pelvic floor as well?
• Dr. Shirlea North on pain with sex postpartum: What’s normal and what’s not through looking at the biomechanical aspect
• Dr. Shirlea on ways to pay her for her services on pelvic health and the difference in terms of patient care between cash-based practice and insurance-based practice
• Dr. Shirlea North on how she does virtual visits/evaluation
• Conclusion and where can you find Dr. Shirlea North

Know more about Megan here: https://holisticlactation.com/ 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will depart a little bit from the usual pelvic and lymphatic health that I talk about in this podcast. I will be sharing with you all about cash-based vs insurance-based Physical Therapy as this is a question I get asked about a lot! 

I get asked by new clients and even returning clients that’s why I wanted to share this topic with you in this episode so that you gain some insight regarding this matter. That way, you are able to understand the pros and cons of both of these ways to access Physical Therapy and make an informed decision in which route to take!
  

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Insurance-based: What is it, how it works, aspects you need to consider, and things you need to know about your insurance 
• Things you need to know and what to expect when you go to an Insurance-based Physical Therapy Clinic
• Cash-based: What is it, how it works, and things you need to know about cash
• Things you need to know and what to expect when you go to a Cash-based Physical Therapy Clinic
• What I tell my potential clients when they ask me if I accept insurance
• Getting to know other providers around me to best serve clients 
• Behind-the-scenes stuff in an insurance-based clinic versus what happens in a cash-based clinic
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode is all about constipation. This is a topic we don’t always want to talk about but it is very important to know more about it. I will share with you some quick fixes to help you if you are suffering from constipation. 

Please listen to this episode so that you can help yourself have better bowel movement! Should you continue to have difficulties even after trying out the quick fixes I have outlined for you, you can always reach out to me so we can schedule you for an appointment and we can assess what is happening to your bowel movement!  

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is constipation
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Bowel frequency
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Bowel consistency
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Hydration, intake, and medications
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Dietary and fiber
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Your anatomy and toilet position  
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Breathe!
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Bowel massages
• Things you need to consider in terms of constipation: Mobility
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Lymphedema Day is celebrated in March, and as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, I want to share with you about the conservative treatments that you can take if you have Lymphedema and/or Lipedema. One of my passions is working with people who are diagnosed or have symptoms in relation to Lymphedma or Lipedema that is why letting you know about the conservative avenues is near and dear to my heart. Note that for both Lymphedema and Lipedema, surgical interventions may be an option, but it is not always the route to choose. 

Please listen to this episode so that you can empower yourself and make informed decisions when tackling Lymphedema or Lipedema for yourself or for someone you love! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What are conservative treatments 
• Compression Garments 
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage 
• Dry Brushing Technique 
• Compression Pump 
• Hydration and Diet Intake 
• How your lifestyle and food choices affect inflammation
• Mobility as a conservative treatment
• Vibration plates as a conservative treatment
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

I am super excited for this episode as we will be talking about the Lipolymphedema team. Let’s talk about what Lipolymphedema is and who composes the team and what you should expect.  

It would be great if you listen to this episode so that you know about the medical practitioners who must be a part of your village when dealing with this condition. These practitioners will work together to maximize the benefits and outcomes for their patients!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is lipolymphedema 
• The key players who should be part of your lipo-lymphedema treatment and journey and the role of each
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

February is National Self-Care month that’s why for this episode, we will still be discussing about how you can take better care of yourself. Specifically, we will be talking about how we can live up to self-care through a biopsychosocial approach within the healthcare system. I’ll also be talking about what is a physical therapist’s role using this approach! 

This is a new wave of thinking and there’s a ton of research supporting it. I truly want you to give this episode a listen so you can learn more about it and how the “bio,” the “psycho,” and the “social” sections are all intertwined and affect your health! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The biopsychosocial approach in physical therapy 
• The “bio” section, what does it mean, and what it encompasses in terms of one’s wellness being
• The “psycho” section, what does it mean, and what it encompasses in terms of one’s wellness being 
• The “social” section, what does it mean, and what it encompasses in terms of one’s wellness being
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today’s episode will be all about self-care. We are still in the self-reflection mode for this episode, just like the ones you listened to in the past week. I want you to ask these questions to see if you are truly taking care of yourself! 

I’ll help you understand the importance of taking care of not only the physical health, but also your emotional and mental health. Further, let’s dive deep into the considerations you have to look into so you can implement a self-care routine effectively! 

I hope you listen to this episode so you can start taking care of yourself for you to better care for the people around you and live a high quality life! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What happens emotionally and mentally when we don’t take care of our physical body 
• The power of breathing 
• Factors to take into consideration when implementing a self-care routine 
• The active stress management and controlling the controllable 
• Simple ways that you can do in your day-to-day and incorporate into your self-care routine 
• The importance of self-awareness in taking care of yourself
•  Little ways that I do to take care of myself
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In today’s episode, I will be sharing with you the last installment for the self-reflection series I have for this podcast. And the topic of this episode is all about micro and macro habits. Let’s dive into what they are and how you can implement these in your daily routine and in your life in general.  

Let’s dive deep into how you create micro habits using the cue and the reward. I hope that you give this episode a listen so that you can start creating micro habits that will turn into macro ones. This may take time, but you will reap the benefits from these positive micro habits that you set for yourself and your health! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What are micro habits and macro habits 
• Starting small in terms of your health and wellness and hitting your health goals
• Creating micro habits: The cue and the reward
• The main thing that will get you going with your habits and will get you to reach your health goals 
• Positive habits versus negative habits and self-reflection 
• The effects of creating micro habits that turn into ritual, into macro habits, into rewards in terms of weight loss and how this takes time
• The importance of doing self-analysis regularly and accountability
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In today’s episode, I will be sharing with you about managing expectations with your pelvic and lymphatic health provider. It is important to manage your expectations because even if the medical industry has advanced as a whole, our bodies have not.  

When it comes to pelvic and lymphatic health, we have to keep in mind that we have to be patient with our bodies. Let’s give our bodies the time to heal and be consistent with what we are doing so that we can truly see progress! 

Hope this episode has influenced your mindset so you can start 2024 right! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The importance of managing expectations with your health care provider 
• Some expectations you need to manage regarding you, your body, and your health 
• What are my clients’ accountabilities and what are my accountabilities
• Things that I look at my clients so I can set both of our expectations 
• Setting expectations on treatment timeframe 
• How I create a supportive environment for my clients
• The importance of giving feedback to your health care provider and letting them know what your life’s circumstances are 
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In today’s episode, I wanted to go over some of the reflections I had in 2023. Let’s also look into the goals for 2024. I am not a huge resolutions person, but I am goal-oriented. Setting goals for myself is a huge thing for me because if I don’t set goals, how am I going to help you set your own goals? So let me take you through my thoughts for the coming year and how NorthStar Physical Therapy can better cater to you and your health!  

Know that my goals aren’t perfect, but what matters is I do set goals and if I have to tweak them along the way, that’s okay! I encourage you to make achievable and objective goals, too, for 2024!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The importance of reflecting on the year 2023 and planning for your goals for the year 2024
• Bringing you back to 2023: What happened with and at NorthStar Physical therapy for the year 2023 and my reflections for the year 
• The plans and goals I have for NorthStar Physical Therapy and what I look forward to for the year 2024
• What I encourage everyone to do
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In today’s episode, we will be talking the question, “What does your brain have to do with your pelvis?” We will be diving into the nervous system and how this affects our pelvic area. You might think that they are not connected at all but you will be surprised to know otherwise! 

I want you to listen to this episode so that you can understand how your body works and how you can have your pelvic floor functions in their optimal health! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The different types of the nervous system and the function of each
• What happens with people who have over dominant sympathetic nervous system and its relation to the pelvic floor
• The Vagus nerve: what is it, what does it do, and what happens to it when it’s bombarded with the sympathetic signal        
• The importance of downgrading and downtraining the brain to reverse the effects of the dominant sympathetic nervous system 
• The different techniques that we can do to overwhelm the brain with good sensations and help with reducing symptoms of an overactive pelvic floor
• Some triggers of the parasympathetic nervous system that affect the pelvic floor
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Painting a picture for you to understand the importance of journaling
• The first thing I give to my pelvic floor clients: Bladder Diary or Bladder Journal
• When do you usually need to journal in your bladder diary and everything that you need to look into and record in this diary
• How journaling benefits you and how it makes you realize some health concerns you might have and some lifestyle modifications you have to do
• The bowel journal and everything that you need to look into and record in this journal
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks!

• Introduction to today’s topic
• Two goals that I have with this podcast episode 
• A clinical case scenario of a male struggling with pelvic floor-related issues: Looking into the symptoms, lifestyle and habits, and struggles 
• What I prescribed and did with a male client struggling with pelvic floor issues
• The importance of looking into the big picture when dealing with patients’ symptoms 
• A quick male anatomy lesson
• Areas of consideration when treating patients with pelvic floor issues
• How oftentimes the pelvic floor is over-generalized, what it actually really is, and its composition  
• The questions I usually ask male patients who come in with lower back pain 
• Why and how a pelvic floor therapist should approach men differently for them to have a professional yet comfortable experience 
• Some assessments you need to expect when walking into a physical therapist’s clinic
• Conclusion

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

Today we will be talking about Men’s Pelvic Health Basics as we celebrate Men’s Health Awareness this November! As a pelvic health physical therapist, I always see and notice that men do not realize they also have a pelvic floor and a pelvis. 

That is why they also need to take care of their pelvic area as well as get some help if necessary. Men also have to understand that medications aren’t the only answers to whatever they are experiencing. Pelvic floor physical therapy can definitely help with many issues that men face. 

It is very important for men, too, as they age, to take a look at what other areas of their body need their attention so that they continue to live their best lives! 

Please share this podcast episode to someone you love and needs to hear all about this! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• The different aspects and pelvic health issues in men that we look into as healthcare providers 
• The three main functions of the pelvic floor that we want to educate men about 
• Other issues that we often screen with men’s pelvic health from urinary functions, bowel functions, to sexual functions and how we try to make men patients comfortable with discussing their symptoms 
• The importance of taking a peak and why you need to start looking into your pelvic health now
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In line with October being a Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I will be talking about the pelvic health considerations in relation to Breast Cancer treatment in this episode. Pelvic health isn’t being talked about a lot when it comes to breast cancer awareness but you have to understand that the effects of this illness aren’t just localized in the breast area. 

So please listen to this episode to know more about pelvic health and what we can do to help you with this area of your body after or while having breast cancer treatment!  

Please share this podcast episode to someone you love and needs to hear all about this! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic 
• How many women and men get diagnosed with breast cancer 
• How is pelvic health affected when diagnosed with breast cancer 
• How I treat my patients 
• Looking into the data: How many breast cancer survivors develop sexual dysfunction, and how many get proper care 
• The different pelvic floor dysfunctions that women with breast cancer develop and go through 
• The different entities of sexual health 
• Common treatments for breast cancer and the side effects within pelvic health 
• The one factor that isn’t always said during assessments for breast cancer patients
• The common reports from post-menopausal breast cancer patients within their pelvic health 
• How the medical community can help people who are going through pelvic health and sexual issues while dealing with breast cancer better 
• The type of treatment approach for the pelvic floor according to research
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this is a topic that I hold really close to my heart. I created this episode because I work with many patients who have active breast cancer diagnoses or are in remission. The topic for today will center on the relationship between breast cancer and Lymphatic treatments. 

Lymphedema may be the side effect of the treatment from any kind of cancer. That is why I will be sharing with you, too, why having a Certified Lymphedema Therapist is important to be part of a breast cancer team. 

So please give this episode a listen so that you are empowered with the information that you need. Go ahead and share this podcast episode to someone you love and needs to hear all about this! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is Lymphedema
• Checking the data: How many women in the United States get diagnosed with breast cancer
• Breast cancer affects BOTH men and women 
• The seven common types of breast cancer 
• The several types of treatments for breast cancer
• The relationship between the Lymphatic system and the cells that causes breast cancer
• What the data shows in terms of how many breast cancer patients develop some stage of lymphedema 
• The stages of Lymphedema 
• Why is it important to have a Certified Lymphedema Therapist as a part of the breast cancer team 
• Conclusion 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will be talking about the differences between Lymphedema and Edema. Not a lot of people know about the differences between these two and I want to empower you with the information so you understand more about them! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to today’s topic
• What is Edema
• What is Lymphedema 
• Different possible causes of Edema
• Different possible causes of Lymphedema 
• Swelling in Edema vs. Lymphedema 
• How to relieve Edema
• Post-op swelling in Edema and Lymphedema: How long it will take to relieve swelling
• Being put on medication/diuretic: How to know if you have regular Edema or Lymphedema and when to contact your health provider
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Introduction to the topic
• What is Lymphedema and what is not Lymphedema 
• What is primary lymphedema, who can have it, and reasons of acquiring primary lymphedema 
• What is secondary lymphedema, who can have it, and reasons of acquiring secondary lymphedema 
• What can prevent and/or treat primary and secondary lymphedema and encourage lymphatic wellness 
• My take on the surgical approach for Lymphedema treatment 
• The psychological and mental health issues involved in both cases – what you can do to address these issues
• Conclusion

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will be talking about Pelvic Floor assessment. As a physical therapist and a pelvic floor specialist, this is a question I get asked on the daily. So, I will be sharing with you how the examination takes place and what I will be looking for, both subjectively and objectively, during the assessment.

Let’s make sure that everything is in alignment and are functioning well within your pelvic floor region so that your quality of living is at its height!  

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to the topic
• The question I get asked the most as a physical therapist 
• What we really do as physical therapists
• Why we do a thorough and comprehensive examination on our patients 
• The different factors we look into when doing pelvic floor assessments subjectively and objectively 
• What I do when we finally get into assessing the pelvis 
• External and internal assessments 
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will be talking about conservative treatments for both Lymphedema and Lipedema. We want you to be an advocate for your health because there are so many ways that are not invasive or surgical-related to treat Lymphedema and Lipedema. Further, I want to share with you that these techniques are great for your overall health and you will experience long-term benefits! 

It still depends on the client, but please listen to these conservative treatment options so you can educate yourself or help someone you know who needs to know about these! 

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to the topic
• What does conservative treatment mean 
• The Complete Decongestive Therapy/Treatment (CDT)
• #1 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema: Skin and nail care and looking into possible infections 
• #2 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema: Manual Lymphatic Drainage 
• #3 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema: Implementing appropriate compression garment
• #4 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema: Implementing compression bandages 
• #5 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema: Overall Mobility 
• #6 Conservative Treatment for Lymphedema and Lipedema:  Dietary Considerations  
• Conservative Treatment for Lipedema: Implementing dry brushing and vibration plates 
• Conservative Treatment for Lipedema: Implementing post-operative education
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, I will be talking about some considerations for those who have difficulties with their back pain. Most often than not, people with back pain aren’t asked about their pelvic floor. That’s why I wanted to share with you on this podcast how your back pain could be directly linked to your pelvic floor!

I will also be sharing with you the other considerations you could look into when you have low back pain. There are so many factors that could make you have a painful back, and it’s truly best to dive into these one by one! 

Let’s discuss:

·       Introduction to the topic

·       Figuring out where your low back pain is coming from

·       Low back pain and it’s connection to your urinary, bowel, or sexual issues 

·       Considering the muscles around your abdomen 

·       Considering your bowel issues

·       Considering your posture and curvature 

·       Considering your neuro symptoms 

·       Considering your hip mobility

·       Considering your thoracic spine and ribs 

·       Considering your footwear for good arch support

·       Considering your body mechanics 

·       Considering your pelvic floor functions

·       Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Introduction to the topic
• Who am I talking to in this podcast
• Myths around the geriatric pelvic floor and aging – what’s normal and what’s not
• Considerations to keep in mind within the geriatric population that are all part of the aging process
• First consideration: Tissue health
• Things you can do to preserve the tissues around the pelvic area 
• Sexual acts as a stimulant to improve blood flow in the pelvic area
• Second consideration: Different cardiovascular health conditions
• Third consideration: Boney changes that happens in the body
• Fourth consideration: Chronic illnesses
• Fifth consideration: Hormonal changes
• Sixth consideration: Pelvic surgeries that happened in this area
• Seventh consideration: What happens overtime
• Eighth consideration: Cancer or any treatment or procedure that was done in the pelvic area  
• Ninth consideration: Development of pelvic organ prolapse or hemorrhoids in the area
• Tenth consideration: Medications taken over the past years
• Eleventh consideration: Stress over the past years
• What I always tell to my people within the geriatric population
• How I check my patients to uncover what’s happening
• How hydration, medication, certain lifestyle practices affect the function of the pelvic area
• Looking at the joint mobility 
• Looking at breathing techniques
• Looking at posture
• Looking at the sexual function
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks!

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, we will be talking about your pelvic floor muscles and how everyone has them. Men and women have pelvic floor muscles so I want to share about what goes on in that area of our body in the musculoskeletal sense. 

Everyone has pelvic floor muscles and everyone deserves a comprehensive assessment by a pelvic floor therapist. So please give this episode a listen to know more about the importance of getting your pelvic floor assessed for its optimal health!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to the topic 
• What you need to know about pelvic floor muscles 
• Where are the pelvic floor muscles located 
• The three bones that comprise the pelvic floor muscle 
• The structural difference of the male and female genitalia 
• The different layers of the pelvic floor region 
• How pelvic floor therapists conduct internal assessment for both men and women 
• Glands, sensory receptors, nerves, lymph nodes, and internal organs in the pelvic floor region and the potential different conditions that may occur 
• Breathing and the pelvic floor muscle groups
• Changing how the pelvic floor muscle groups are oriented 
• Simple functional mobility tasks that pelvic floor therapists assess to check if the pelvic floor is functioning well
• Summary

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this episode, we will be talking about your core being more than your abs! I am so passionate about this topic because so many people ask about this. So I hope that after you finish listening to this podcast, you are empowered with more information about your core!

Let’s discuss:

• Introduction to the topic
• What is your core and what is its main function 
• The different stabilizing muscle groups of our body that make up the core 
• Our six-pack abs aren’t part of the stabilizing muscle groups 
• Core workouts: What are we working out and how are we going to do the workouts properly
• Different types of muscle activation 
• The screening tool I do before I recommend exercises to patients with pelvic floor issues 
• Working out the respiratory diaphragm 
• Conclusion 
  
  

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Introduction to the topic
• What you need to know about getting compression garments 
• Simple considerations on getting compression garments for Lymphedema 
• Types and options as to compression garments for Lymphedema
• Other areas of our body that need compression garments 
• Compression garments for Lipedema 
• Medical Grade Compression Garments 
• Certified Lymphedema Therapists can guide you on the best compression garment to get 
• Getting Medical Grade Compression Garments are an investment 
• Summary

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks! 

• Introduction to the topic
• What is the Pelvic Floor and where is it
• The four main function of the Pelvic Floor
• Your breathing technique and posture in relation to the Pelvic Floor
• Prior orthopedic history within certain regions in relation to the Pelvic Floor
• How your hydration level and diet are related to the Pelvic Floor
• Common Misconceptions about the Pelvic Floor
• Conclusion

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks!

• Introduction to the topic
• When MLD can be useful for you
• How MLD helps move lymphatic fluid
• Why MLD absolutely needs to be performed by a CLT
• How MLD helps when the lymph nodes are no longer running efficiently or present
• Advocating clients with manual draining or with the help of a compression pump
• MLD videos are a great start but it doesn’t replace what a CLD can do for you
• Peeing during or after an MLD session     

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks!

Let’s discuss:

• What is lymphedema?
• What is lipedema?
• Lipedema is found 99 percent of the time in women
• Lipedema is associated with big changes in hormones
• Lipedema is not cellulite, it is not just fat
• The changes that happen in women who have lipedema
• How is lymphedema treated?
• What is crucial for lymphedema treatment
• How is lipedema treated?
• What I do for lipedema patients
• Post-procedures for lipedema are not lifetime
• The common grounds of lymphedema and lipedema  

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! 

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. 

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! 

See you in 2 weeks!