NorthStar Physical Therapy

Dr. Shirlea North, PT, DPT, GCS, CLT
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Physical therapy is more than just 3 sets of 10 reps! This podcast provides you with collaborative information and interviews from experts in the field within physical therapy and other allied health professionals in order for you to achieve and champion your optimal health and self-management. Particular conditions like lymphedema, lipedema and various pelvic health dysfunctions for all pelvises that are not easily understood in the medical community and require an inter-disciplinary team approach to achieve your goals. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal pelvic and lymphatic health!

  1. 3d ago

    #79: Sexual Wellness, Mental & Physical, with Sexologist Meghan Robinson

    Meghan Robinson, Sexologist, LPC, CST, joins Dr. Shirlea North on this episode to talk about where their two worlds collide: the pelvis. Sexual trauma, dysphoria, nervous system regulation and many other things can impact both mental and physical sexual wellness and require expert guidance to guide the healing process and help you get even more out of your physical therapy sessions. Working in tandem with providers who advocate for their clients' wellness offers support for comprehensive, individualized care and recovery.

    31 min
  2. #78: GLP-1/GIPs Connection With Pelvic & Lymphatic Health

    May 4

    #78: GLP-1/GIPs Connection With Pelvic & Lymphatic Health

    In this episode, Dr. North shares her clinical perspective on GLP-1/GIP's effect on health, focusing on how they affect lipedema weight management, bone health, hormonal balance, sexual function, and their inherent connection with pelvic and lymphatic health.

    33 min
  3. #77: Out Of Network Pelvic & Lymphatic Health Provider: What Does That Mean?

    Apr 6

    #77: Out Of Network Pelvic & Lymphatic Health Provider: What Does That Mean?

    Summary In this episode, Dr. North breaks down the insurance-speak many clients struggle to navigate, talks about what it means to be an out-of-network provider, and shares what she is able to offer as an out-of-network provider that insurance-based practices cannot. She helps shed light on the complicated ins and outs of coverage and billing within healthcare and encourages her listeners to be their own health and wellness advocates.

    42 min
  4. #76: Connection Between Lipedema & Pelvic Floor Health: Why We Screen?

    Mar 2

    #76: Connection Between Lipedema & Pelvic Floor Health: Why We Screen?

    Summary In this episode of the North Star Physical Therapy Podcast, Shirlea North discusses the intersection of pelvic health and lymphatic health, particularly focusing on lipedema. She emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to treatment, the need for proper screening and referrals, and the collaboration between different health specialists to optimize patient care. Shirlea also highlights the common symptoms associated with lipedema and pelvic health issues, advocating for a comprehensive understanding and management of these conditions.

    23 min
  5. #75: Dyspareunia: What is it and Why does it matter?

    Feb 2

    #75: Dyspareunia: What is it and Why does it matter?

    In this episode, Shirlea North discusses dyspareunia, or pain with penetration, exploring its significance in sexual health and intimacy. She emphasizes the importance of open dialogue between providers and clients, the complexities of assessing and treating dyspareunia, and the need for a comprehensive approach to pelvic health. Shirlea highlights that experiencing pain during penetration is not normal and encourages individuals to seek help, whether through pelvic floor therapy or other medical interventions. The conversation aims to destigmatize discussions around sexual health, particularly in the context of Valentine's Day, and to empower individuals to pursue pleasurable and pain-free intimacy.

    24 min
  6. #74: Word of the Year: Refinement

    Jan 5

    #74: Word of the Year: Refinement

    In this episode, Dr. North reflects on the past year, discussing the advancements in healthcare and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of setting goals for the new year, focusing on refinement in both personal and professional aspects of life. Dr. North encourages listeners to take time for self-reflection and to create a balanced life that includes wellness, fun, and strong relationships. Takeaways: Reflecting on the past year helps in setting future goals.Establishing a word of the year can guide personal growth.Refinement in personal and professional life is essential.Setting achievable and measurable goals is crucial.Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation.Balance between work and personal life is important.Community involvement enhances professional relationships.Continuous education is vital for clinicians.Self-reflection can lead to positive changes.Carving out time for self-care is necessary.

    23 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    #73: End of Year Active Stress Management Techniques

    In this episode of the North Star Physical Therapy podcast, Shirlea North reflects on the past year, discussing personal and professional growth, the challenges of managing stress during the holiday season, and the importance of active stress management techniques. She emphasizes the need for self-care and mindfulness, especially during busy times, and encourages listeners to take moments throughout their day to regulate their nervous system. As the year comes to a close, she invites listeners to reflect on their experiences and prepare for a healthier new year. Takeaways: Reflecting on the year can lead to personal growth. Managing stress is crucial during the holiday season. Active stress management techniques can improve well-being. Taking moments throughout the day for self-care is essential. Breathing exercises can help regulate the nervous system. Mindfulness can enhance daily experiences and reduce stress. Setting goals for the new year can foster motivation. Recognizing triggers for stress can aid in symptom management. Building resilience helps in managing future stressors. Engaging with health professionals can provide personalized strategies. Check out the website (www.northstardpt.com) for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

    24 min

  8. 11/17/2025

    #72: Men's Pelvic Health Awareness

    Hey there, welcome to the NorthStar Physical Therapy podcast! In this episode, I'm focusing on something that doesn't get talked about nearly enough: men's pelvic health. November is the perfect time to recognize that pelvic health isn't just for postpartum women or those going through menopause — it's for everyone, including men and anyone assigned male at birth. The truth is, male and female pelvic anatomy is remarkably similar, and the pelvic floor plays critical roles in urinary function, bowel function, sexual function, organ support, pelvic stability, and lymphatic health — no matter your anatomy. Yet so many men suffer in silence for years, dealing with symptoms like urinary leakage, hesitancy, incomplete emptying, bowel issues, erectile dysfunction, or pain during sex. These symptoms are often dismissed as "normal aging" or never brought up at all due to stigma or embarrassment. But here's the truth: these are treatable conditions, and pelvic health physical therapy can help. Let's get into: Why men have pelvic floors too — and why they matterCommon urinary, bowel, and sexual symptoms men experienceHow pelvic health connects to hip pain, low back pain, and mobilityThe role of stress, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle habitsWhy internal pelvic assessments can be game-changingReal client success storiesHow to find a men's pelvic health specialistBreaking the stigma around male pelvic healthCheck out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram! If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you. If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast! See you in 2 weeks!

    17 min
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About

Physical therapy is more than just 3 sets of 10 reps! This podcast provides you with collaborative information and interviews from experts in the field within physical therapy and other allied health professionals in order for you to achieve and champion your optimal health and self-management. Particular conditions like lymphedema, lipedema and various pelvic health dysfunctions for all pelvises that are not easily understood in the medical community and require an inter-disciplinary team approach to achieve your goals. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal pelvic and lymphatic health!

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Shirlea North, PT, DPT, GCS, CLT
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 NorthStar Physical Therapy
  • Show Website
    NorthStar Physical Therapy