ELIZA M.T. ANDREWS, PT, WCS

When I was pregnant with my first son, I was amazed at the things a woman's body can do—the changes it makes to adapt to its new situation. And then, just as amazingly, it changes back... well almost. That convinced me that women and men definitely are different physically and that women should not be treated the same way as men medically.

As I learned about women's health issues, I became convinced that women were not getting all the care they could be getting. Just because you are pregnant or have had female health issues, you do not have to have pain and dysfunction. Many women experience problems or pain during pregnancy, after childbirth or after surgery or injury that really affects their whole life—how they function as mothers, wives, partners, homemakers and at their jobs. It affects them emotionally and psychologically.

SPECIALIZED TRAINING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

Probably the most undertreated conditions are related to pelvic pain and incontinence—and that's true for both men and women. After beginning my specialized training in these two conditions, I realized men also have issues after surgery, chemotherapy or injury. They suffer as much as women do when not treated properly. They also need very special attention and treatment in order to regain their quality of life. I am very proud of my advanced training and special skills, and using them to help men and women regain their quality of life is very personal to me. My patients are important, and I work very hard to give them my best efforts at all times.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION

My patients will tell you my best quality is that I'm a good listener—I really take the time to understand your whole situation—not just what is happening physically, but how it affects you in your relationships, your work, everything. Then, after we have determined the physical problem, I will tell you about your therapy—how your road to recovery will go. What to expect and how long it may take to complete your rehab. I encourage questions because I think understanding your problem helps you heal faster.

LIVING A FULFILLING LIFE

When I am not working, I spend time with my family—my kids, my husband and my large extended family who all live nearby. My favorite hobby is refinishing furniture—I guess I just love making things beautiful and whole again.