GOUVERNEUR -- Gouverneur Hospital’s physical therapy department is offering a new service designed to treat pelvic floor disorders in women.

The service involves assessment and treatment by Valerie Storie, PT, a physical therapist specially trained in pelvic floor muscle anatomy, function, physiology, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Pelvic floor physical therapy is provided in a private treatment room of the newly renovated physical therapy area in the east wing of the hospital.

“Many women suffer needlessly from pain and embarrassment associated with pelvic floor dysfunction,” said Storie.

The pelvic floor is a term for a group of muscles that help regulate the organs involved in everything from urination to sexual function. When these muscles aren’t working properly, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and pain can result. If left untreated, pelvic floor problems can become debilitating, causing some women to avoid public places, important family events, or career advancement, and sometimes leading to social isolation.

“Physical therapy for these issues can help women regain confidence as well as improve their health,” she said.

Storie cited her love of a field that constantly challenges her to learn, with an expanding evidence base and validation of new techniques, as her reason for seeking certification.

The training provides Storie with certification in Pelvic Health Level 1 of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Section on Women’s Health comprehensive certification.

“I am fortunate to expand my knowledge base and now be able to address women’s health issues,” she said. “I look forward to educating women and helping them with the tools they need to not only recover but to regain confidence and control of their life,” she said.

“As a physical therapist, the best part of my job is assisting my patients in restoring their health and returning them to the activities they love most,” said Storie.

Storie will be eligible to pursue further education leading to comprehensive certification in Pelvic PT (CAPP-Pelvic) following one to two years of clinical application. She and Jen McDonald, PT, DPT, MS, a Canton Potsdam Hospital Physical Therapist, are both certified in Pelvic Health Level 1.

Women in the Gouverneur can contact Valerie Storie at 535-9316 for more information. The service is also available at Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Cheel Medical Campus in Potsdam, NY. Women in the Potsdam area can call 261-5460 for more information.