Beyond the Clinic: A Discussion on Advancing Pelvic Health in Rural Communities
Student Special Interest Group (SSIG)
Join us for an engaging and inspiring discussion on the journey into pelvic health physical therapy and the meaningful impact of practicing in rural communities. This session will explore how clinicians find their path into pelvic health, how career trajectories evolve over time, and the challenges and growth experiences that shape professional practice. Attendees will gain valuable insight into pursuing pelvic health as a specialty and navigating opportunities within diverse clinical settings.
The conversation will highlight the unique role of pelvic health physical therapists in rural and underserved areas, where access to care is often limited. Participants will examine common barriers to care, existing gaps in services, and the importance of addressing stigma, education, and health equity. The session will also emphasize how rural practice can foster deeper patient relationships, creative problem-solving, leadership, and community-based advocacy.
Designed to be interactive and conversational, this event will conclude with an open Q&A to encourage dialogue and reflection. Students and early-career clinicians will leave with practical strategies for advocacy, community engagement, and preparing to serve rural populations effectively while making a meaningful impact beyond the clinic walls.
Webinar Objectives
- Examine the unique clinical opportunities and challenges associated with practicing pelvic health in rural communities.
- Analyze barriers to access and disparities affecting pelvic health services in rural and underserved populations.
- Explain the role of the physical therapist in advancing advocacy, education, and stigma reduction related to pelvic health care.
- Identify actionable strategies for student and early-career engagement in community outreach, leadership, and advocacy initiatives within pelvic health practice.
Speakers
April Ritz, PT, DPT 
Dr. April Ritz, PT, DPT, is the founder and owner of Effingham Pelvic Health and Wellness which is a specialty pelvic and obstetric physical therapy clinic in Effingham, IL that opened in 2021. She holds certifications in both pelvic floor and obstetric physical therapy from the Academy of Pelvic Health. Her clinic specializes in the treatment of bladder, bowel, sexual health, and abdominal-pelvic pain for men, women, and children. They also focus on rehabilitation and birth prep during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Ritz graduated from Maryville University in St. Louis in 2016, where she received the Excellence of Physical Therapy Award. She is most importantly a wife and mother to four children that are 7 and under. She personally has had a C-section, hospital VBAC, and two home births and has undergone pelvic rehab personally so can easily connect with patients! She is thrilled that you are listening in tonight!
Lindsey Nguyen, PT, DPT, PCES
Lindsey Nguyen is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in pelvic floor dysfunction in Abingdon, VA. Having completed continuing education in pelvic health through the Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute, she now works to serve those in surrounding areas who do not have access to healthcare services for pelvic floor dysfunction. Dr. Nguyen holds a certification as a Pregnancy and Postpartum Exercise Specialist and sees clients for preconception, prenatal, and postpartum care with a focus on both preventative health measures and childbirth recovery. She also acts as an adjunct professor at Emory and Henry College in Marion, VA. In addition to her role as a pelvic health practitioner, she has completed several continuing education courses on dementia care and senior fitness. Dr. Nguyen feels strongly that her work is a calling, rather than a vocation, and her goal is to help her clients experience healing through sustainable habits for long term success.
Moderator - Karen Bistrain-Diaz, SPT (SSIG Director)
Registration is FREE, and this live webinar is open to non-members and members.
Will this webinar be recorded?
This webinar will be recorded. Please note that the recording will be exclusively available to Academy of Pelvic Health members within 7 business days at aptapelvichealth.org/info/webinars.
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