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Physical Therapy for Hypermobility
in Franklin County, PA

The Care You Deserve

If you're living with a connective tissue disorder, you've likely experienced the frustration of a care provider who was unfamiliar with your condition; who didn't take your symptoms seriously or offered unhelpful advice. Dr. Christine has experienced 43 years of living with hypermobility,  has loved ones with connective tissue disorders, and has had the opportunity to work with countless women with these conditions as a pelvic floor physical therapist. 

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Christine understands that supporting those with connective tissue disorders means addressing the WHOLE person and having a comprehensive understanding of how associated symptoms influence a plan of care. 

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Intervention Strategies

Myofascial Release & Cupping​

Massage & Manual Techniques

Nervous System Regulation

Strength & Stability Exercise

Core and Pelvic Floor Re-education​​

Re-education of Breathing Patterns

Biofeedback Training

Kinesiotaping

Modalities (Red Light Therapy, TENS)

Coaching & Strategies to Support Self-Management and Injury Prevention

Education for injury prevention

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Dr. Christine is currently accepting new patients to a waitlist for appointments in Fall 2025. For earlier appointments, please contact Gaia Women's Physical Therapy in Martinsburg, WV and request to schedule with Christine.

Stomach Ache

Common Bowel Symptoms We Address

Constipation

  • Infrequent bowel movements (fewer than 3 per week)

  • Straining or difficulty passing stool

  • Hard, dry, or small stools

  • Feeling of incomplete emptying after bowel movements

  • Abdominal bloating or discomfort

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Fecal Incontinence and Leakage

  • Involuntary loss of stool (solid, liquid, or gas

  • Urgency that is difficult to control

  • Leakage when passing gas

  • Stool seepage or staining of undergarments

  • Difficulty differentiating between gas and stool

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Defecation Disorders

  • Dyssynergic defecation (inability to coordinate muscles properly)

  • Difficulty initiating bowel movements despite urge

  • Excessive straining or pushing

  • Need for manual maneuvers to complete bowel movements

  • Pelvic pain during bowel movements

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Other Related Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort

  • Rectal pain or pressure

  • Hemorrhoids or anal fissures related to bowel dysfunction

  • Impact on daily activities, social life, and emotional wellbeing

A Holistic Approach to Bowel Dysfunction Therapy

Dr. Christine believes strongly in treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. Bowel function is affected by many factors beyond the pelvic floor, which is why our approach is comprehensive and individualized.

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Initial Assessment

Your first session includes a thorough evaluation to understand your specific challenges, health history, and goals. This typically involves:

  • Detailed discussion of your symptoms, patterns, and impact on daily life

  • Review of your medical history, including pregnancies, surgeries, and medications

  • Assessment of posture, breathing patterns, and core function

  • Evaluation of pelvic floor muscle function (with your consent and comfort)

  • Analysis of potential contributing factors (dietary habits, fluid intake, toileting behaviors)

  • Completion of bowel diaries or symptom questionnaires (if appropriate)

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Personalized Incontinence Treatment Plan

Based on your assessment, we develop a customized treatment plan that may include:

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  • Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Specific exercises to improve strength, coordination, and relaxation of pelvic floor muscles

  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to address muscle tension, trigger points, or fascial restrictions

  • Bowel Retraining: Techniques to establish regular bowel habits and improve coordination during defecation

  • Visceral Mobilization: Gentle manual techniques to improve abdominal and pelvic organ mobility

  • Behavioral Strategies: Modification of fluid intake, dietary fiber, positioning, and toileting habits

  • Education: Evidence-based information about normal bowel function and self-management strategies​

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is it normal to strain during bowel movements?

No. Healthy bowel function should not require excessive straining or pushing. With proper coordination of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, along with good toileting habits, bowel movements should be relatively effortless.

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Will I need an internal examination?

A vaginal and/or rectal internal examination can be very helpful in assessing pelvic floor function for bowel symptoms. We prioritize your comfort and will discuss all examination options thoroughly before proceeding. 

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How is physical therapy different from just taking fiber or laxatives?

Medications and supplements address stool consistency, which is only part of the bowel dysfunction picture. Physical therapy targets the muscular and coordination aspects of bowel function, which are often the root cause of persistent symptoms. While dietary modifications are important, they work best when combined with proper pelvic floor rehabilitation.

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What lifestyle changes might help alongside physical therapy?

Depending on your specific condition, beneficial changes might include proper hydration, appropriate fiber intake, regular physical activity, stress management, and proper toileting position (using a footstool and allowing adequate time without straining). We'll discuss personalized recommendations as part of your treatment plan.

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How do you maintain privacy and dignity during treatment for bowel issues?

We understand the sensitive nature of bowel dysfunction and prioritize your comfort and dignity throughout the treatment process. All discussions and examinations are conducted in a private setting with clear explanation and consent. Many effective treatment techniques can be performed fully clothed, and we ensure appropriate draping and privacy for any examinations.

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Your Path to Bowel Health and Comfort

 

Dr. Christine is committed to helping you achieve better bowel function through specialized pelvic floor physical therapy. Combining clinical expertise with compassionate care, she addresses the underlying causes of bowel symptoms rather than just managing them.

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If you're experiencing constipation, fecal incontinence, or other bowel issues that impact your quality of life, effective treatment is available. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward improved bowel function and the freedom to live without the constant worry and discomfort of bowel dysfunction.

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