Mile High District May Event: The Influence of the Thoracic Ring on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Mile High District May Event: The Influence of the Thoracic Ring on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

This course is designed for both non-pelvic and pelvic PTs to understand how the thoracic
ring, including the ribs, sternum and thoracic spine, can greatly influence optimal function of the pelvic floor.

Speaker: Dr. Gretchen Sewczak-Claude, PT, DPT

Course Objectives:
At the conclusion of the course the participant will:
1. The participant will be able to describe how the thoracic ring range of motion, stability, and motor control influence pressure dynamics influencing the pelvic floor.
2. The participant will be able to perform evaluation techniques to determine if the thoracic ring impairments contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.
3. The participant will be able to perform and teach interventions specific to the thoracic ring to improve pelvic floor dysfunction.

Gretchen graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Regis University in 2007. Over
the years, she has worked in multiple PT settings over the years, but found her passion in Pelvic
Physical Therapy after moving to Laramie in 2011. Gretchen treats patients through the lifespan
related to pelvic impairments, but specializes in pre and postnatal care, perimenopause, and
pelvic pain. Gretchen met her husband, Jon, in PT school and they have two children, Sloane
and James, as well as their dog, Dexter. In her time outside of the clinic, Gretchen is an adjunct
faculty for the University of Wyoming Division of Kinesiology. In addition to spending free time
watching her kids play sports, Gretchen loves exercise of all types, including weightlifting,
running, agility and speed training, yoga and pilates.