To the Editor:

Re “Persistence Is Key to Treating Vaginal Pain” (Personal Health, Aug. 7): Treatment by a physical therapist can dramatically enhance the quality of life for women who experience this condition. A women’s health physical therapist will perform an examination, identify the cause(s) of vaginal pain and determine whether referral to a physician for additional testing is necessary. Based on the examination results, the physical therapist will design a treatment plan to reduce muscle tightness and improve muscle strength and function.

Forty-seven states and the District of Columbia allow for evaluation without referral as well as some form of direct access to physical therapist treatment.

Erin Wendel

Alexandria, Va.

The writer is senior media relations specialist, American Physical Therapy Association.

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