Hosted by the IDEA Committee
Using a podcast-style dialogue, join in as Dr. Karen Snowden and Dr. Melissa A. Carroll discuss representation in anatomical images, racism in pelvic anatomy, some of the pelvic anatomy research on standardizing anatomical terminology, eliminating eponyms (anatomical structures named after people), and the new initiative called “Decolonizing the Body” from Black in Anatomy, Inc. Participants will also be encouraged to suggest topics for future inclusive anatomy educational programming for pelvic health physical therapists.
Additional topics that will be briefly discussed include:
- Representation in anatomical and clinical images
- Historical perspectives regarding gynecological experimentation on enslaved and unclaimed bodies
- The pelvic shape myth and the racism that fueled its development
- Inclusive anatomy, eponyms, and cultural competency in pelvic health
- Future educational programming for APTA Pelvic Health members
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About the Presenters
Melissa A. Carroll, PhD, MS, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Melissa teaches anatomy and neuroanatomy to medical, graduate, and undergraduate students. She has published and presented on pelvic anatomy, anatomy in physical therapy education, and anatomical variations. Working with a dedicated team of collaborators, Melissa is focused on inclusion and equity through several initiatives. One such project includes increasing representation in anatomical images through the Portfolios of People: Advancing Anatomical Representation Together (POP-AART) project. Melissa is also the Founder of Black in Anatomy, a grassroots non-profit organization whose goal is to promote and celebrate Black contributions to anatomical sciences., Dr. Karen Snowden is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, board certified in women’s health (Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist) and holds specialty certifications through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) in pelvic floor dysfunction (CAPP-Pelvic) and pregnancy / postpartum (CAPP-OB). She has 30+ years clinical experience and specializes in women’s and men’s health. She is known for her comprehensive, holistic approach in helping diverse patients achieve their personal goals, and she is passionate about clinical education.
Karen Snowden, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist, resides in Allentown, PA. She received her physical therapy degree from Northeastern University and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Widener University. In addition to treating patients, she teaches in the DeSales University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and mentors physical therapy research. She’s a national and international speaker educating physical therapists in pelvic, obstetric, and menopause-related conditions and disease prevention. She co-developed and teaches an evidence-based menopause course to healthcare providers through Snowden & Litos. She is active in the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy serving on various education committees.
