Explore Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Womens Center for Motion and Performance
What Makes Women Patients Different
Female patients are more susceptible to many musculoskeletal conditions such as ACL tear, stress fracture, patellofemoral pain syndrome, osteoporosis, and concussion. We know that sex affects various physiologic processes and that, unfortunately, gender bias in medicine exists.
The UConn Health Women’s Center for Motion and Performance aims to address women's specific differences and challenges. By focusing on understanding and addressing these differences, the center can tailor treatments and interventions to better meet the needs of female patients. This may involve specialized rehabilitation programs, injury prevention strategies, and educational initiatives to promote musculoskeletal health in women.
Understanding Unique Health Needs
At the Women’s Center for Motion and Performance, we recognize the distinct health needs that women face throughout their lives. Our approach is tailored to address conditions commonly experienced by women, acknowledging the physiological, hormonal, and biomechanical differences that can influence the presentation of these conditions and their treatment outcomes.
Key focus areas include:
- ACL Tears: Women are more susceptible to ACL injuries due to differences in muscle strength, knee alignment, and hormonal influences. Our specialized treatment plans are designed to address these unique factors, promoting stronger recovery and preventing future injuries.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Often seen in active women, this condition is influenced by the wider pelvis structure, which affects knee alignment and mechanics. Our approach includes targeted physical therapy and conditioning programs to alleviate pain and enhance knee function.
- Osteoporosis: Women, particularly those post-menopause, face a higher risk of osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels, which affect bone density. Our center offers comprehensive screening, prevention strategies, and treatments to manage osteoporosis effectively and maintain bone health.
- Stress Fractures: More common in women, particularly those engaged in high-impact sports or with irregular menstrual cycles, stress fractures require specialized care. Our team provides tailored nutritional guidance and rehabilitation programs designed to heal and prevent these injuries.
Reflecting Our Patients
We are proud to have a diverse team of physicians who look like our patients and deeply understand their experiences and needs. This representation fosters a deeper connection and trust, ensuring our patients feel genuinely seen and heard.
At the Women’s Center for Motion and Performance, we do more than treat injuries; we understand the woman behind the patient, providing care that is as unique as each individual we serve.
UConn Health Minute: Women’s Center for Motion & Performance
Women are more susceptible to certain injuries, such as ACL tears, stress fractures, and osteoarthritis. The Women’s Center for Motion and Performance at UConn Health addresses those challenges and empowers women to stay healthy and active at every stage of their lives.
What Makes Women Patients Different?
Women are more susceptible to specific injuries, especially anterior knee pain, osteoarthritis, concussions, stress fractures, and ACL tears. Women are also more affected by various physiologic processes, and, unfortunately, gender bias in medicine exists. The Women’s Center for Motion and Performance aims to address women's unique differences and challenges. The center can tailor treatments and interventions to better meet female patients' needs by focusing on understanding and addressing these differences. This may involve specialized rehabilitation programs, injury prevention strategies, and educational initiatives to promote musculoskeletal health in women.
Mission, Vision & Values
- We aim to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to women of all ages and activity levels with musculoskeletal conditions. We rely on our deep expertise in sports and orthopedics to help each patient overcome their unique challenges, preserve motion, enhance performance, and achieve their health goals.
- We aspire to be a leading center of excellence in healthcare, renowned for our specialized care of women with musculoskeletal conditions. We seek to redefine the healthcare experience for women, transcending the boundaries of traditional athleticism. We envision a future where every woman can access personalized care that empowers them to live without physical constraints.
- We embrace diversity, recognizing the strength it brings to our institution. We are proud to have many female physicians on our staff and advocate for increased diversity in orthopedics.
- We foster a collaborative environment, uniting various specialties to deliver comprehensive care that addresses every aspect of our patients’ health in motion and performance.
History of the Center
The Women’s Center for Motion and Performance was founded with a clear mission: to address the often-overlooked complexities of women’s musculoskeletal health. Recognizing a significant gap in specialized care tailored specifically for women, the center emerged as a pioneer in integrating orthopedics, physical therapy, and comprehensive wellness support into a single, cohesive unit. Our inception was driven by the increasing demand for healthcare professionals who not only understand women’s unique biomechanics but also the distinct challenges women face at various stages of life. Since opening our doors, we have been committed to advancing the standard of care through innovative treatments, research, and education, ensuring every woman receives personalized and effective healthcare solutions.
Your Health, Our Passion: Explore personalized care that adapts to you at the Women’s Center for Motion and Performance.
When to Visit
Choosing the right time to seek care is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. You should visit the Women’s Center for Motion and Performance if you experience musculoskeletal discomfort, including joint pain, muscle strains, or mobility issues. Additionally, if you are looking to optimize your athletic performance, prevent potential injuries, or manage a chronic condition like osteoporosis or arthritis, our specialized services are designed for you. We also encourage visits for routine assessments to maintain overall musculoskeletal health, especially if you are engaged in regular physical activity or sports. Our center is equipped to support you at any stage, ensuring your health enables rather than limits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do physicians from the Center also treat men?
Absolutely!
I’m not a serious athlete. Can I make an appointment?
Yes! Patients of any activity level are welcome to make an appointment.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
Think about what your fitness goals are. Are you hoping to get back in shape, repair an injured joint, play with your grandkids? Clear goals will help your physician set expectations and a custom treatment plan.
When should I make an appointment?
Now! Don’t wait on your health. Whether you have an injury that needs attention, lingering pain that won’t go away, or are just looking for advice on improving your activity level and overall health, we are here to help!
