Austin resident Sarah Rodts was over the moon to bring a healthy baby into the world. However, no one had warned her about how excruciating the pain from her difficult cesarean section would be.
For many women, postpartum recovery is an area that often lacks sufficient medical attention. She began researching options and discovered The Center for Healing and Regenerative Medicine in West Austin.
“When I arrived for my first PT appointment, I couldn’t even stand up straight. The pain was excruciating. But over the following weeks, my therapist helped me regain strength in my core, working within my pain levels. And let me tell you, it worked,” she said.
Carrie Kass, executive director of CHARM Austin, emphasizes that the clinic’s approach is deeply rooted in a patient-centered philosophy.
“We’re not just treating symptoms — we’re treating people. Each patient who walks through our doors gets a customized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs,” Kass said. “Our team is highly trained in regenerative and rehabilitative medicine, and we focus on using innovative therapies to help people regain function and eliminate pain.”
Rodts explained that therapies like Redcord suspension training and the Neufit Neubie direct current system allowed her to re-engage her muscles in a way she hadn’t been able to since giving birth.
“I started feeling like my old self again — some days, even better than before pregnancy.”
While postpartum physical therapy is a focus at CHARM, many of the techniques used, such as dry needling, manual therapy and myofascial release, are just as beneficial for men recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic pain, Kass said.
For those struggling with chronic pain, postpartum recovery or musculoskeletal issues, CHARM Austin offers a specialized approach to healing. While the clinic provides services for both men and women, its comprehensive physical therapy program has been “particularly life-changing for women facing postpartum challenges, muscle issues in the lower abdomen and complex muscle and bone problems,” Kass said.
“Our goal is always functional restoration. Whether it’s an athlete who suffered a knee injury, a man recovering from back surgery, or a new mom experiencing diastasis recti (abdominal separation), we apply the same high level of expertise and care,” she said.
One of the clinic’s most cutting-edge treatments is Microcurrent Point Stimulation, which has been particularly effective for C-section scar therapy and chronic pain for many of their clients.
“Immediately after an MPS session, I can feel and see that my scar has released,” Rodts said.
The treatment is also widely used for soft tissue injuries, fibromyalgia and nerve-related pain, Kass said.
“This technology stimulates the nervous system in a way that helps break up scar tissue and rewire pain responses,” she said.
Pelvic floor dysfunction (a group of disorders that affect the muscles, ligaments and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs) can affect both men and women. CHARM employs a variety of rehabilitative techniques to treat the condition.
“Pelvic floor therapy is not just for postpartum women. Many men experience pelvic floor issues due to surgery, sports injuries or chronic conditions,” Kass said. “Our therapists are trained to address these concerns in a way that restores normal function and significantly improves quality of life.”
The clinic’s holistic approach extends beyond physical therapy. CHARM integrates regenerative medicine treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma therapy and stem cell injections, which help accelerate healing for joint and tendon injuries. Additionally, Kass emphasized the importance of education and empowerment in the healing process.
“We want patients to understand their bodies and take an active role in their recovery,” she said. “Whether it’s through guided movement therapy, neuromuscular re-education or strength training, we’re equipping people with the tools they need to maintain their progress long-term.”
For women navigating postpartum recovery, CHARM offers a beacon of hope.
“Don’t listen to people who say your body will never feel the same after pregnancy,” Rodts said. “With the right care, you can feel even better than before.”
“I can stand up without that tight, pulling sensation. It’s painless, and the results are instant.”