April 02, 2025

A New Era of Care for Female Athletes 

WashU Medicine Orthopedics is pioneering a comprehensive female athlete program, led by Katherine Caldwell, MD, whose approach goes beyond musculoskeletal treatment. This multidisciplinary clinic focuses on the unique needs of active females ages 13 to 35, including pregnant and postpartum women seeking to stay active or return to exercise and athletes recovering from injuries or managing hormonal changes affecting performance. Key features of the program include: 

• Personalized Care: Treating common female athlete injuries such as ACL tears, stress fractures, and hip pain with customized rehabilitation plans
• Integrated Health Support: Providing access to nutrition counseling, sports psychology, and pelvic floor therapy to ensure a whole-body approach to care
• Inclusive Treatment: Serving female athletes ages 13 to 35, including competitive athletes, weekend warriors, and pregnant or postpartum women returning to activity
• Collaborative Approach: Partnering with physical therapists, athletic trainers, and mental health professionals to provide seamless, team-based care

“We’re treating the whole athlete, not just the injury,” Dr. Caldwell says. “Our goal is to provide specialized care tailored to female biomechanics, hormone fluctuations, and unique training demands.” 

By offering both preventive and rehabilitative strategies, WashU Medicine Orthopedics is collaborating with other women's health care experts to set a new standard in women’s sports medicine, ensuring that female athletes stay strong, resilient, and injury-free. 

Originally published by St. Louis Magazine

Learn why patients choose WashU Medicine Orthopedics, request an appointment online or call (314) 514-3500.