"Lymphedema is not as readily understood (nor treated!) here in the U.S. as in Europe. Initially, I was misdiagnosed until 2018, when someone suggested I find a lymphedema therapist. THAT was a relief! I learned so much, and responded well to treatment. In 2021 I had bariatric surgery, and after my weight stabilised a year later, I began the search anew for a lymphedema therapist. In Northern Virginia that's a frustrating task. It wasn't until I was getting treated for venous insufficiency that one of my doctors suggested Dr. North for lymphedema treatment. HALLELUJAH! Once again I found myself in front of a provider who truly understands lympedema, and someone who could guide me to relief again. I have seen Dr. North twice at the time of this review, and I am so very impressed with her compassionate, thorough, and layperson-friendly care. I tend to rapid-fire questions at my doctors, and Dr. North was able to answer what she could, and research and reply to me later what she couldn't. Her manner gives me confidence about dealing with the maddening aspects of lymphedema, and I'm looking forward to working with her for a very long time! Also? Her website and podcast are resource-rich and a valuable asset for anyone dealing with lymphedema/lipidema. SO. THANKFUL." - S.

"Dr. North was professional, empathic, and cared about my wellbeing. She worked with my issues, and got me the right treatment to get me comfortably back on my feet and not aching all the time. I am forever grateful for the help she gave me." - S.T.

"I saw Dr. North for my Lipedema treatment (including a physical assessment) and lymphatic drainage. She is very friendly and always willing to address any questions I had. She is patient while treating me and goes out of her way to send additional information. I highly recommend her!" - J.L.

"Dr North helped me figure out I had lipedema. Something is been struggling with for my whole life! But after seeing her for some pelvic floor pt (she specializes in several things!), we were able to find the root of several of my underlying issues! And it helps she is very personable! Thank you Dr North!!" - K.S.

"Highly Recommend Dr. Shirlea North! She helped me through issues I was having during my pregnancy and provided thorough care. I would recommend her to any pregnant women who need pelvic floor strengthening. She has a holistic approach that helps to strengthen adjacent muscles as well. Thank you!!" - N.P.

"I started seeing Dr. North as a recommendation by my doula since I had a very "big and low" pregnancy belly and was told by many that I most likely would develop diastasis recti post partum. I did develop diastasis recti but was so glad I had met Dr. North and had a plan to start therapy 4 weeks post partum. I started seeing Dr. North every week during my maternity leave. She helped me understand the mechanics and function of my muscles, which helped me be more effective in doing my exercises and doing routine everyday movements. I also learned through her that it is not only important to focus on the core strength and appearance but in the overall body (legs, arms) and strength since the muscles will compensate with each other and they are all connected. After 2 months of seeing Dr. North I feel stronger and more secure in my ability to do physical activities. I really liked how she tailored the therapy to my needs and even what equipment I had available at home, and focused on preparing me for going back to work and doing my everyday tasks (I am able to carry my 30lb toddler again!). Dr. North is very friendly and approachable. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking pelvic floor therapy, and especially to pregnant and post-partum women." - P.D.

"I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Shirlea North for her outstanding pelvic floor physical therapy. As someone living with endometriosis, I was struggling to manage my pain and improve my quality of life. Dr. North truly understands women’s health issues and made me feel heard and supported throughout my PT sessions. She provided me with invaluable tools and techniques that have allowed me to take control of my pain. Her compassionate, thorough approach and deep expertise in pelvic/women’s health made all the difference for me. I highly recommend Dr. North to any woman seeking specialized care in this area!" - C.R.

"I recently had the privilege of working with Dr. North, and I couldn't be happier with the results of our time together. Dr. North is an excellent listener. During every session she listened attentively to my concerns, questions, and goals. She is very knowledgeable and has a unique ability to distill certain concepts/protocols in an easy to understand manner. Finally, Dr. North provided excellent after-session notes that were filled with many actionable movements/exercises that had a positive and lasting impact on my health and well being. Overall, my experience with Dr. North was truly exceptional. Her outstanding listening skills, vast knowledge, detailed after-session notes, and impactful techniques played a pivotal role in my recovery!" - N.W.

"Dr North has had a significant impact on the quality of my life. Her thorough diagnosis of my condition led to an action plan that has already paid dividends. I continue to be impressed with the depth of knowledge that Dr North demonstrates on Pelvic issues. She is up to date and cognizant of ongoing research. Her ability to brief on a complex ailment is particularly noteworthy. Her empathic approach is highly effective and I am extremely fortunate to have her as my health provider." - M.K.

"I have worked with Dr. Shirlea North for the last couple of years and have been so impressed with her knowledge, experience, and patient care. North Star Physical Therapy has made an incredible impact on the lives of many patients and I will continue recommending this as an option for anyone with lymphedema or lipedema on any level." - H.S.

"Dr. North with NorthStar Physical Therapy has been my pelvic floor physical therapist for several months now. I researched several pelvic floor physical therapists and thought I couldn't go wrong with a Dr. who makes house calls. Dr. North listens and explains your body and how to improve your problems in terms you can understand. She has such a wonderful demeanor and I always learn something new when she comes for our appointments. If you are in need of pelvic floor physical therapy, I highly suggest Dr. North...10 out of 10!!!" - J.D.

"Shirlea is awesome! Her knowledge and caring attitude really make a difference. She has made a huge difference in my life by giving me the tools and knowledge to understand my pelvic floor issues. With her guidance during my weekly sessions, I have not only improved my pelvic floor strength but improved my daily life!" - T.L.

"I had a hysterectomy and needed help strengthening my pelvic floor muscles. Dr. Shirlea was fantastic. Not many Therapist are certified in this area. I was very fortunate to find out about her." - P.E.

"Dr. North was wonderful, thorough, knowledgable, and thoughtful. She understands the implications of my condition and provided useful information that will help with my lymphatic system. I will definitely use her again!" - K.B.