Body Breaking Down in Midlife? A Performance PT Explains How to Build It Back Up with Casey Francis, DPT (Episode 270)

If you're an active woman in perimenopause or menopause and it feels like your body is suddenly falling apart — new injuries, recurring pain, workouts that just aren't working the way they used to — this episode is for you. This week we sat down with Casey Francis, DPT, a performance physical therapist who works with midlife women to understand why they’re getting hurt, and importantly, what to do about it, including movement assessment, prehab, rehab, lifestyle and nutrition practices, and much more. Plus, we have a special guest appearance from our very own resident menopause specialist Dr. Carla DiGirolamo — who not only recommended Casey for this episode but is also one of her patients.

Casey Francis, DPT is a performance physical therapist and founder of MVMT MTHD. A former Penn State swimmer and graduate of the University of Florida’s physical therapy program, Casey specializes in root-cause–driven care for active individuals and athletes. Her approach integrates movement analysis, progressive strength, and regenerative therapies to help people heal from injury, build resilient bodies, and sustain high-level performance. You can learn more about her and her work at mvmt-mthd.com

Carla DiGirolamo, MD, PhD, is a Double Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Obstetrician/Gynecologist specializing in women’s performance and menopausal medicine. She is also a Crossfit Level 1 trainer, Certified Nutrition Coach, and member of CrossFit Medical Society. She is a MedFit Care provider and provides weekly workouts and medical updates at her Substack Athletic Aging. She is an Endocrine Consultant for Wild Health and Women’s Health Director at Eternal Health. Dr. DiGirolamo is now seeing patients for virtual consultations for menopausal care and performance optimization. Visit her website drcarlad.com to learn more about her services and schedule an appointment.

Resources:

Crossover Symmetry System

Performance Physical Therapy - An investment in your Longevity, Athletic Aging blog

https://livefeisty.com/training/

Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/

Sign up for our FREE Feisty 40+ newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-40/

Follow Us on Instagram:

Feisty Menopause: @feistymenopause

Hit Play Not Pause Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/807943973376099

Support our Partners:

Cozy Earth: Use Code HITPLAY at https://cozyearth.com/ for up to 35% off

Previnex: Get 15% off your order with code HITPLAY at https://www.previnex.com/

Wahoo: Use the code FEISTY2026 to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr