In our weekly feature section, Pelvic Rehab Report is proud to present this interview with newly certified practitioner Donna Calwas PT, PRPC
What/who inspired you to become involved in pelvic rehabilitation?
Our hospital-based system was getting a growing number of pelvic floor referrals, and I offered to help fill the need. I was mentored by our current Women’s Health therapist and began the gradual process of learning through the Herman and Wallace courses. I thought I knew what I was getting into, thinking I would be better able to help my low back and SI patients, but I was blown away by all the NEW information I received. I learned as much about my bad bladder and bowel habits as I learned about helping my patients. The pelvic floor hadn’t even been mentioned in my college anatomy class and I was very impressed by the intricacy of the anatomy “down there.” After Pelvic Floor I, I needed to keep learning to satisfy my curiosity and be able to help the increasingly complex patients I was encountering.
What has been your favorite Herman & Wallace Course and why?
Pelvic Floor I was amazing just for the sheer amount of new material, and of course, having Holly teach us to practice saying “vagina” in front of the mirror to decrease our discomfort was priceless.
I would have to say the favorite treatment techniques I learned were in the Ramona Horton Visceral Mobilization courses. I am a very tactile practitioner, and I loved learning to feel the tissues and how they would respond to the techniques. I am frequently surprised by the seemingly miraculous changes these techniques can make in my patients. I have shared my enthusiasm for visceral mobilization with my colleagues, and teach them what I have learned as often as I can.
What lesson have you learned from a Herman & Wallace instructor that has stayed with you?
Don’t be afraid to just do it. I can’t remember who said this, probably more than one instructor in different forms. You need to learn to trust your instincts, trust your hands, and listen to your patients. The rest will come with time and practice.
What motivated you to earn PRPC?
Primarily, I was expecting it to be a good learning experience, and it was! It helped me truly synthesize all the information I have been receiving and finally read all the research. I also learned from a great group of women in my study group. Thanks, gals!
Secondarily, since the knowledge we have is truly unique in the physical therapy field, I think some sort of recognition testifying to this knowledge is important.
To those considering the PRPC….Don’t be afraid to just do it.
Learn more about Donna Calwas PT, PRPC at her Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner bio page. You can also learn more about the Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification at www.hermanwallace.com/certification.
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