On this episode of the Healthy Wealthy and Smart Podcast, Jenna Kantor, DPT guest hosts and interviews Juan Michelle Martin on why pelvic health is gaining popularity. Juan Michelle Martin earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2007 from New York Institute of Technology and over the last 10 years she has amassed significant experience in orthopedics, women's health including high risk pregnancy, pediatrics and neurological disorders both within the acute and outpatient settings.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Juan's transition from outpatient orthopedics to pelvic health specialty

-Stigma surrounding pelvic health conditions

-How to find a qualified pelvic health physical therapist

-And so much more!

"I always wanted to dive into that niche but having kids solidified it for me."

"There's more popularity due in part to social media."

"Just because it's common does not mean its normal."

"If you have an issue, you shouldn't have to suffer."

For more information on Juan:

Originally from the beautiful island nation of Barbados, I moved to the US for college via a volleyball scholarship. At the time I also had the honor of representing the Barbados Senior National Volleyball team having competed at the junior level. I earned a Bachelors degree in Biology in 2004 from the University of Montevallo with minors in Psychology and Kinesiology as I knew I wanted to pursue a career in therapy and wellness, due in part to my own personal experience as an athlete. As a student and athlete I also had the privilege of working in the training room under the head athletic trainer and expanding my knowledge base regarding return to sport from injury as well as prevention. I earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2007 from New York Institute of Technology, working as a graduate assistant in the athletic training department with several of their sports teams while there.

Over the last 10 years I have amassed significant experience in orthopedics, women's health including high risk pregnancy, pediatrics and neurological disorders both within the acute and outpatient settings. However my desire to focus on women's health came not only out of a love from my work experiences but developed even more as a result of my own experience with 2 pregnancies. I developed stress urinary incontinence during the pregnancy which seemed to worsen after and more with my second child. After engaging in rehabilitative exercises and strengthening, I was able to return more intense physical exercise, without any issues.

I have continued to strengthen my skills and knowledge through mentorship with other amazing therapists within the field as well as several continuing education courses to continue to focus on evidenced based treatments and solutions. My goal with JMM Health Solutions is to bring awareness to the area of pelvic health and all it's associated issues, not only for the female, but also the male and pediatric populations. Just because it's common doesn't mean it's normal!

When not treating patients I love to spend time with my family, my awesome dog Miko, Crossfit and other sports.

For more information on Jenna:

Jenna Kantor (co-founder) is a bubbly and energetic girl who was born and raised in Petaluma, California. Growing up, she trained and performed ballet throughout the United States. After earning a BA in Dance and Drama at the University of California, Irvine, she worked professionally in musical theatre for 15+ years with tours, regional theatres, & overseas (www.jennakantor.com) until she found herself ready to move onto a new chapter in her life – a career in Physical Therapy. Jenna is currently in her 3rd year at Columbia University's Physical Therapy Program. She is also a co-founder of the podcast, "Physiotherapy Performance Perspectives," has an evidence-based monthly youtube series titled "Injury Prevention for Dancers," is a NY SSIG Co-Founder, NYPTA Student Conclave 2017 Development Team, works with the NYPTA Greater New York Legislative Task Force and is the NYPTA Public Policy Committee Student Liaison. Jenna aspires to be a physical therapist for amateur and professional performers to help ensure long, healthy careers. To learn more, please check out her website: www.jennafkantor.wixsite.com/jkpt

Resources discussed on this show:

Email: [email protected]

JMM Health Solutions Website

APTA Women's Health Directory

Herman and Wallace Directory

Pelvic Guru Directory

JMM Health Solutions Facebook

JMM Health Solutions Instagram

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Have a great week and stay Healthy Wealthy and Smart!

Xo Karen