I am in support of the board listing pelvic floor therapy as non-invasive, as it always has been per the Assistant AG’s testified statement, and as was pointed out by the Judge in the Henrico County Court system.
As a licensed physical therapist who has been practicing, in good standing, since 1994 in the state of Virginia, I can confidently state that the art of pelvic rehabilitation is such that requires many hours of hands on and didactic training.
I have been providing pelvic rehab to women and men since early 2010 in Northern Virginia and have been teaching in the field since 2017.
All the therapists, who have the proper training, are taught to assess the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor musculoskeletal and neurological systems through an internal assessment, when necessary. This examination provides valuable information which will decide the course of treatment and interventions. Internal assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor is NEVER forced and only provided with patient’s consent. Otherwise, the physical or occupational therapist who is providing care would assess externally, with limitations.
I have known Mr. Roberts for close to 7 years. He has attended many of the pelvic floor continuing education classes that I have thought over the years, including the advanced courses.
He is one of the most compassionate, cautious, and brilliant physical therapists that I have come across.
In fact, after recognizing his level of knowledge in many other areas of the field, I have reached out to him as a source of solid information and experience.
It is shameful that he has been stripped of his healing abilities for the past 18 months. This has not been only detrimental to his mental health and financial well being but also has affected a community of people who would have been able to receive care from a talented clinician.
Those responsible should formally apologize and reimburse him for his loss of revenue and pain and suffering that he has endured.