One of my favorite activities at the annual AOTA conference is to be inspired by all the great products and services showcased in the Exhibition Hall.
AOTA Inspire at Philly did not disappoint!
In fact, I came away with so many products and companies to share with you that I will be spacing them out over a couple of blog posts.
For May, check out these 4 companies with a focus on issues that disproportionately impact women.
The Anxious Pelvis: Owned by an OT (you know these are my favs) the site focuses on pelvic health and nervous system support. The OT owner, Gina Inglese, does not provide OT through the site, but does offer coaching and education. As a pelvic floor therapist, she saw firsthand the lack of good information on the topic. Designed for women and nonbinary, The Anxious Pelvis site has free resources on pelvic wellness and pain free sex.
Lipedema Foundation: This is a topic, that I am first to admit, I was not well informed about. Lipedema is a chronic medical condition, primarily impacting women, resulting in a buildup of abnormal fat in the lower body and sometimes arms. The condition is often painful and can be accompanied by easy bruising, swelling, skin changes, fatigue, and mobility issues. The condition is resistant to diet and exercise and is often misdiagnosed. The Lipedema Foundation is committed to research that will help define, diagnose and develop treatments for this condition. OT can help, so I am going to devote a future blog to their work – watch for that later this year. In the meantime, learn more by visiting their website at The Lipedema Foundation which includes a section for clinicians.
Springrose: Their tag line says it best; “Adaptive Intimates for Unstoppable Women”. Springrose specializes in bras that are endlessly adjustable, easy to don and doff, include optional rings to aid in gripping, shoulder straps that are adjustable in the front, and that are made from comfortable materials. I love that the website includes videos that demonstrate the variety of ways to don a Springrose bra – step in, one handed, overhead or like a vest. Check out their product line at Springrose.
The Lactation OT: Founded by 2 OTs, The Lactation OT is a learning platform offering OTs, PTs and SLPs on-demand, CEUs focused on lactation informed therapy and courses to support IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) credentials. Clearly passionate about the work, they offer a range of classes from introductory to Maternal Health, Medically Fragile Infants, Bottle Feeding, Tongue Tied, and Business Resources. Their web site The Lactation OT also includes free resources for therapists just beginning to explore lactation or IBCLC certification.
