Sex in the City

What has inspired you to expand your knowledge of pelvic health?

After working as an Orthopedic Physical Therapist for over a decade, I realized there was a gap in my knowledge that prevented me from fully treating female clients, especially postpartum women. After taking an introductory course where I learned internal assessment techniques, I was able to gain a complete picture and holistically treat postpartum clients. My desire to expand my knowledge comes from a passion for learning, educating, and making pelvic health accessible through online platforms and in-person sessions.

Are there any unique characteristics of your professional journey?

I began my career as a travel Physical Therapist, which brought me to White Marsh, MD, where my clinic was located. This allowed me to work alongside renowned Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgeons at Johns Hopkins Medical, as we shared a suite. I had the opportunity to accompany patients to their appointments and was invited to observe surgical procedures. Later, I became an Assistant Manager, overseeing 10 PTs, 2 OTs, and a team of rehab technicians. I have approximately 12 years of managerial experience and 17 years of clinical experience. In 2019, I joined the National Physique Committee and began training for my first bodybuilding show, learning firsthand the meaning of training to failure and applying those principles in my clinic. I am now a Nationally Qualified Bikini Competitor, placing 2nd in the Muscle Contest in LA in December 2019. In 2020, I founded Principal Physical Therapy during the height of the global pandemic with just two clients; today, I serve over 300. Throughout my career, I have often been a minority as a Black woman, but I am grateful to have reached a position where I can give back.

Are there particular pelvic health conditions you are especially interested in treating?

I currently treat Distance runners and PostPartum Moms and am most interested in treating Stress Urinary Incontinence. I recognize the barriers they face in determining when to return to training, as well as the challenges that pelvic floor weakness and OASIS injuries can create in their recovery.

Do you see a particular need in your community?

Yes, I am located in the heart of Brooklyn, specifically in Park Slope, but I serve clients from Flatbush, Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, and Bed-Stuy. There is a noticeable lack of pelvic floor therapists and a significant need for pelvic health education and postpartum care in these areas. Many women are unaware of where their pelvic floor is, its function, and the importance of understanding it. Additionally, when dysfunction occurs, they are often unaware that resources are available to help.

What is your vision for the future of pelvic health physical therapy?

My vision is for Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy to become the first line of referral for patients experiencing pelvic pain, pain during or after sexual intercourse, women with incontinence, men recovering from prostate surgery or experiencing pelvic pain, and female track and field athletes dealing with pelvic health issues.

Expand further on your personal statement video. 

I am the daughter of immigrant parents whose “two heartbeats” were overlooked by the medical team using a stethoscope. My mother gave birth to multiples, but one of the twins passed away because the hospital and medical team were unprepared for twin births, rushing the surviving twin to a local hospital. This experience inspires me to provide women with a safe space to learn about and explore pelvic health and advocate for women who feel they have not been heard.

Author: Suze-Elisha Principal, PT, SPT, Board- Certified Specialist in Orthopedics, 2024 NABPT & APTA Pelvic Health Scholarship Recipient

Author Bio: Hi, I'm Suze-Elisha Principal, a Licensed Physical Therapist, Board-Certified Specialist in Orthopedics, and owner of Principal Physical Therapy. I specialize in helping athletes and the pelvic health population recover and return to their favorite activities. My experience includes managing an outpatient practice and partnering with Johns Hopkins Sports Medicine, where I developed a passion for sports medicine, particularly ACL rehab for collegiate athletes. I founded Principal Physical Therapy in 2020 to address disparities in care, especially for women of Caribbean descent facing pelvic health issues. I also compete in bodybuilding, which deepens my understanding of the athletic mindset and rehabilitation.

Connect with Suze-Elisha: Instagram- @principal-Pt | Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/PrincipalPhysicalTherapy/