Meet the SSIG Members | Featuring Kylee Austin, SPT

Welcome to the 3rd ‘Meet the SSIG Members!’ The Student Special Interest Group is made up of student PTs and student PTAs from across the country – and we want to highlight them and their passion for the profession! ‘Meet the SSIG Members’ has the purpose of connecting students interested in pelvic and women’s health by introducing them to one another and our community through the APTA Pelvic Health Student Special Interest Group. We would like this engagement to promote personal development, networking, and friendship opportunities.

Name/Year in School/Program Name:

Kylee Austin/1st Year DPT/Northern Arizona University

Why are you interested in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?

As a young adult, I struggled with pelvic pain and was told that I was crazy by many doctors. It wasn’t until I found a pelvic floor therapist that I felt seen and heard and started to heal. After having kids, I became even more of an advocate for pelvic floor therapy, and decided to become one myself!

What are you most excited for your upcoming Pelvic Health Clinical Rotation OR what did you love most about your Pelvic Health Clinical Rotation?

I know I will be doing a pelvic health rotation, but as a first-year, I have not prepared for one yet. I’m excited to get hands-on experience as soon as I can!

Why do you believe it is important to be an active member of the SSIG and/or what have you gotten out of being a member of the SSIG?

I’ve loved being a member of APTA Pelvic SSIG! I enjoy meeting other students that are passionate about pelvic health, as well as learning from them! Bonus, I get to read the Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy, which I geek out on each month!

Any advice you might like to share for students looking to get involved in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?

I encourage all students to check out this specialty! All people have pelvises! Knowledge of pelvic health comes in handy within all specialties! Do it!

What you love to do outside of PT school?

Outside of PT school, my 3 kiddos keep me really busy! We love hiking, traveling, and just having dance parties at home!

APTA Pelvic Health Student SIG