Another Year Goes By

Last year on this date I posted a tribute to one of the true pioneers of physical therapy, Florence Peterson Kendall. This year, in honor of her passing and her miraculous life, I want to once again pay tribute to Florence P. Kendall and remember her not only as a physical therapist, but also as my grandmother.

She continues to be my inspiration for trudging forward towards a nursing degree and eventually a Master's in Women's Health. I know she would be proud of me. Even though it's been three years since she left, she's still in my thoughts every day.

The greatest compliment I ever received came from my mother when she told me, "you have Amma's spirit." Sometimes I wish she could see how far I've come. My life was a mess when she died, but I believe in my heart that she knows.

For those of you who still have grandparents or even older parents, treasure them, love them, give them your time. Sometimes it can feel like an inconvenience to go out of your way to pay grandpa a visit, but the time we have is precious and fleeting. You'll be grateful for the moments you shared when they have gone.

Honoring a Pioneer of Physical Therapy

On January 28, 2006 the world of physical therapy lost one of its most influential pioneers. Florence Peterson Kendall championed for physical therapy in the 1930s when this country did not believe in its relevance. She wrote the book that has become the gold standard for the profession.

Her career spanned 75 years. Even in her hospice bed, she continued to work, giving treatment advice to nurses and their families. She truly touched everyone that she met. She was an incredible woman.

There are many pelvic pain sufferers out there who have benefited from physical therapy. I know I have; and I thought you might want to know who to thank, in part, for the treatment you have received.

Physical Therapy

I forced myself to see the physical therapist. I felt miserable and completely ashamed as I went through the first round of exercises and exams. It was just like I thought it would be with one exception. The PT I had was wonderful.

She did everything she could to help me feel comfortable. I learned that a lot of women have to undergo pelvic physical therapy. I had to use a vaginal dilator at home to stretch my vaginal wall and help relax the muscles.

Over two months I began to see an improvement. It hurt less during penetration because the muscles were not in spasm. But physical therapy only treated one small portion of a much larger problem. I still had pain during sex and horrible burning for hours or days after.


Now Open Up and Say Ah...