Horn Physicians Clinic Recognized for POSITIVE PERFORMANCE

Physical Therapy Treats Women's Health Issues

Horn Memorial Hospital (HMH) now treats women's health issues through the Physical Therapy Department.  Stefanie Kirk, DPT, Pelvic Floor Level 1 Certified, joined Rehab Services in September 2013.  With her pelvic floor certification, she has experience treating pelvic pain, incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, as well as symptoms during pregnancy including post-partum.

This is a specialty that is new to Horn Memorial.  "We are excited to expand our scope of practice to include women's health. Statistics show that pelvic issues in women are extremely common, and to have our Physical Therapy Department working cohesively with our providers is a benefit to our patients," comments Chris Nichols, CEO.

Stefanie is specially trained in treating symptoms related to the pelvic floor through both invasive and non-invasive techniques.  Physical therapy is appropriate for women of all ages who may be suffering with symptoms including:  pelvic pain, urinary leakage, difficulty emptying bladder/bowels, pain with intercourse, and recurrent urinary tract infections.  Common physical therapy treatments include stretching, strengthening muscles of the hips, pelvis and core, manual therapy, and education in a home exercise program. Patients receive a specialized home exercise program to target their specific issues which will be progressed as seen appropriate during treatment sessions.  Patients, depending on their diagnosis, will have 1-2 physical therapy treatments a week for 4-6 weeks.

Stefanie comments, "I am excited to be a part of the team at Horn Memorial Hospital.  Physical therapy can address many symptoms that women may have whether it is from pregnancy or from other medical issues.  I want to encourage women to seek out treatments for their medical issues because many of the symptoms women have can be treated with a conservative approach."

The unknown can often be intimidating; Stefanie offers the opportunity to meet with her to answer your questions, and hopefully put any worries aside before determining a plan of treatment.  This free consultation can be scheduled through the Rehab Services Department at the hospital.  Prior to treatment, a referral from your primary care provider or specialist is required.