We usually think of rehabbing a sports injury or surgery recovery when it comes to physical therapy. However, the field is much broader for physical therapist Marie Woerner, founder of Woerner Physical Therapy. With 17 years of experience and a passion for pelvic health, Marie has carved out a unique niche in Fort Worth, helping her patients solve challenges they may have thought they'd simply have to live with.
"I've always been fascinated by the human body and how it works," Marie shares. "But it wasn't until I saw how pelvic floor dysfunction could significantly impact someone's quality of life that I knew this was my calling." Pelvic floor therapy is an often overlooked area of healthcare that Marie was committed to shining a light on.
"I wanted to create a space where patients felt truly heard and supported," she explains. "Pelvic health issues can be sensitive to discuss, and I wanted my practice to be a safe haven where people could regain control and confidence in their bodies."
What Makes Woerner Physical Therapy Unique?
At the heart of Woerner Physical Therapy is a holistic, patient-first philosophy. Marie and her team believe in addressing the root causes of discomfort, not just the symptoms. "We combine evidence-based practices with hands-on techniques and tailor every treatment plan to the individual," she says. This personalized approach ensures that patients not only recover but feel empowered.
The practice offers a range of services, particularly in pelvic health. From treating urinary leaks, pelvic pain, and constipation to addressing postpartum recovery and aiding men post-prostate surgery, Woerner Physical Therapy remains ready to handle diverse needs. Techniques like functional dry needling, biofeedback assessments, and the fitting of pessaries set the practice apart as a leader in its field.
Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Matters
Marie describes the pelvic floor as a "hammock" that supports essential functions of the body. "When those muscles are weak, tense, or uncoordinated, it can cause a range of issues—bladder leakage, pelvic pain, or even difficulty with bowel movements," she explains. Pelvic floor therapy focuses on strengthening, relaxing, and retraining these muscles for better function.
A common misconception, Marie notes, is that solving these issues is as simple as engaging the muscles through Kegel exercises.
"Sometimes, the pelvic floor muscles are too tight or tense, and strengthening them without addressing the tension can worsen the problem," she clarifies.
The benefits of pelvic floor therapy often extend beyond what patients initially expect when properly addressed.
"Many people experience improved sexual health, better digestion, and relief from lower back and hip pain," says Marie. "It's truly transformative for both physical and emotional well-being."
6 Reasons to Choose Woerner Physical Therapy
- Holistic Approach: Beyond addressing the muscles, Marie and her team consider factors like nutrition, stress, sleep, and overall lifestyle. "Your pelvic health doesn't exist in isolation," she explains. "We treat the whole person."
- Personalized Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient's unique needs, ensuring comfort and effectiveness at every step.
- Advanced Techniques: The practice employs cutting-edge methods to deliver results from functional dry needling to biofeedback assessments.
- Focus on Education: "We make sure our patients understand the 'why' behind every recommendation," Marie emphasizes. This empowers patients to take an active role in their recovery.
- Pessary Fittings: For those experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, pessaries can offer significant relief. Woerner Physical Therapy is one of the few practices in the area to provide this service.
- Support Across Life Stages: From pregnancy and postpartum recovery to aging-related challenges, the team is skilled at addressing concerns at every phase of life.
A Life-Changing Impact
The most rewarding part of Marie's work is her part in profoundly impacting patients' lives. She recalls a recent case: "I had a patient who couldn't keep up with her grandchildren because of pain and incontinence. After working together, she not only regained her strength but also her confidence. Now, she's chasing them around the playground like she always wanted to."
Engaging the Community
Marie is passionate about spreading awareness and education around pelvic health. Woerner Physical Therapy hosts workshops and info sessions at health systems, fitness centers, and even chiropractic offices. "It's so important to give people the tools and knowledge to care for themselves," she says.
Looking to the Future
The field of pelvic health is evolving rapidly, and Marie is excited about what's ahead. "There's a growing focus on prevention, which is fantastic," she says. By collaborating with other healthcare providers and leveraging new technologies, pelvic health professionals are addressing issues before they become significant problems.
Marie's commitment to professional growth ensures that she and her team stay at the forefront of these advancements. "Continuing education, mentorship, and patient feedback are all crucial," she notes. "They help us refine our approach and offer the best possible care."
A Partner in Your Health Journey
At Woerner Physical Therapy, the focus is on creating meaningful, lasting change that improves patients' lives.
"We want them to leave feeling stronger, more confident, and fully supported," Marie says.
Whether recovering from a life event, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to improve your quality of life, Marie Woerner and her team are dedicated to helping you every step of the way.
For more information about Woerner Physical Therapy and its services, visit their website or schedule a consultation today.