Women are unique in many ways. At the most fundamental level, women's bodies are structured to give birth and supply early nutrition to the next generation. But whether or not a women decides to have children, her reproductive system affects her body throughout her life.
While the changes and stages of the maturing female body are certainly natural, there may be times when a woman needs extra help to cope with modern demands - athletics, later childbearing years and career stress, to name a few. Many physical therapists concentrate their practice in obstetrics and gynecology and can help design an exercise program to fit each women's lifestyle and take care of the body that will carry her comfortably through life. Physical therapists may also recommend that their patients with OB/Gyn concerns see a physician for a full evaluation.
While many stages require a doctor's referral to make an appointment with a physical therapist, other states have direct access, meaning an individual can contact a physical therapist herself. The following pages will discuss the various stages a women's body goes though, from adolescence to the mature years, and describes how a physical therapist can help ensure a healthy body.
*Sourced from: American Physical Therapy Association (www.APTA.org). "For Women of All Ages. A Physical Therapist's Perspective on Women's Health." 50M/3-07/PR-38