What is endrometriosis and what can be done about it?
Endometriosis is a chronic, progressive condition where cells similar to the tissue that lines the uterus (endometrium) also grow outside the uterus, most commonly in the pelvis. These cells can grow to form lesions that have the same cyclical/menstrual changes outside the uterus as inside the uterus. With menstruation, the lesions cause bleeding within the pelvis leading to inflammation and scarring. Adhesions can result often involving the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bowel.
Symptoms of endometriosis can vary depending on the location of these lesions. However commonly pain, fatigue, and heavy or irregular bleeding with menstruation are experienced. If you experience pain that stops you from doing your normal activities at the time of your period or ovulation, pain with or after sex, pain with urination or bowel movements, or pain in your pelvic region, lower back or legs, these can all be signs of endometriosis. As well as pain, endometriosis can also cause issues with fertility.
The muscles inside your pelvis and surrounding your back and abdomen can become tightened and sensitised and then further contribute to your symptoms of pain. And hence treatment by a specially trained Women’s Health physiotherapists can be immensely helpful in the management of Endo. A multidisciplinary approach is often required and so our therapists work closely with medical practitioners, surgeons, dietitians, and acupuncturists to ensure effective and individually tailored management is provided.
Erin Brighenti
BPhty, M.A.P.A.
Women's Health Physiotherapist
Erin is a Physiotherapist with postgraduate training in Clinical Pilates, Sports Physiotherapy, Dry Needling and Women’s Health Physiotherapy.
University Training
Erin graduated from the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy.
Past Work Experience
Erin has worked in private practice and on field with various sporting teams.
She has worked with the Canberra district NEAFL team and local soccer and rugby teams across her career as a physiotherapist.
Treatment Approach
Erin appreciates and understands the importance of personalised rehabilitation for every individual, including group physiotherapy sessions.
Special Clinical Interests
Erin has developed a passion in working with physically active individuals looking to achieve their goals. Erin’s main area of interest in Clinical Pilates is postural alignment and correcting poor lumbo-pelvic control which can contribute to overuse injuries. Also trained in Women's Health, Erin has a passion treating bladder and bowel, prolapse, pelvic pain, pregnancy and post-natal issues. She also enjoys treating spinal, knee and soft tissue injuries as she understands the limitations they cause having undergone two knee surgeries herself. As a result, she is passionate about returning clients to their pre-injury and sporting lifestyle as quickly as possible.
Personal Interests
In her spare time, you’ll see Erin playing touch football, hitting the beach or curled up with a good book.
Emily Bell
BSci (Phty), M.A.P.A
Physiotherapist
Emily is a qualified Physiotherapist with additional training in dry needling and Women’s Health.
University Training
Emily graduated from Curtin University in Western Australia with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy.
Past Work Experience
Emily has worked in private practice settings treating and managing musculoskeletal issues and Women’s Health clientele. She has also previously worked in a physiotherapy practice treating and managing NDIS clientele.
Emily has several years’ experience working with the Western Australian Football League and Australian Football League umpires along with local football and Gaelic football teams.
Treatment Approach
Emily believes in taking a holistic approach with her clients to ensure they receive the best care possible.
Emily ensures she uses the latest evidence based practice and also recognised the importance of an individualised treatment plan for each individual as no two people are the same.
Special Clinical Interests
Emily has a special interest in Women’s Health treating bladder and bowel issues along with pre-natal and post-natal issues. Emily also has a special interest in clinical Pilates for injury management and prevention.
Personal Interests
In her spare time, you’ll see Emily exploring the areas bush walks, at the beach watching her partner surf or attempting to surf herself and cooking.
