The Impact of Physical Therapy on Bleeding Disorder Patients with Dr. Brightyn Handrich

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, we sit down with Dr. Brightyn Handrich, DPT, to unravel the essential role of physical therapy in the care of patients with bleeding disorders. We examine how physical therapy fits into the comprehensive model at the Hemophilia Outreach Center in Green Bay, explore strategies for injury prevention across different age groups, and discuss how education and tailored interventions can promote joint health and enhance quality of life in this unique community.

Dr. Brightyn Handrich is a physical therapist at the Hemophilia Outreach Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. As a former gymnast with firsthand experience navigating sports injuries, Brightyn made a natural transition into physical therapy, motivated by her passion for exercise and a family history that guided her career path. Her expertise centers on evaluating and treating joint and muscle issues for individuals with bleeding disorders, empowering patients of all ages to maintain mobility and function through evidence-based techniques and movement education.

“Your why has to be a lot stronger than your excuses.” ~ Dr. Brightyn Handrich

Today on Beyond the Bleeds:

• Physical therapy is crucial for bleeding disorder patients due to the prevalence of joint issues and pain, which impact daily function, employment, family life, and even mental health.
• Education is at the heart of physical therapy, helping patients better understand their joint health, injury mechanisms, and preventive strategies.
• Annual and biannual evaluations allow physical therapists to proactively detect and address minor joint changes before they escalate into major problems.
• Treatment approaches are highly individualized for pediatric, adult, and older adult patients, reflecting medical advancements and differing levels of joint health.
• Physical therapists collaborate with hematologists, nursing teams, and families to customize plans that align with sports participation, medication regimens, and patients’ day-to-day activities.
• Safe movement education and sports guidance empower children with bleeding disorders to participate safely in activities, helping families navigate NVDF’s risk-ranked sports list.
• In older adults, physical therapy focuses on modifying movement, managing pain, and stabilizing joints, while acknowledging that major joint repair isn’t possible, preservation and adaptation take priority.
• Barriers to access and adherence include geographic limitations and patient motivation; focusing on the “why” and making education central helps overcome these challenges.

Looking for practical tips, expert advice, and a sense of community while living with or supporting someone with a bleeding disorder?

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Don’t miss the Hemophilia Outreach Center’s Winter Education Program!We invite you to join us on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at the Oneida Hotel in Green Bay for a day filled with community, education, and celebration.

This special event will feature expert presentations and interactive sessions designed to support and empower patients and caregivers. Attendees will also enjoy a delicious lunch, opportunities to connect with others in the bleeding disorder community, and a variety of activities that make learning fun and engaging. Families are encouraged to bring their children for kid-friendly activities, including a memorable visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Registration is quick and easy at hemophiliaoutreach.org/eventsBusinesses interested in making an impact can support the event by donating raffle items that help raise funds for patients living with bleeding disorders.To contribute, please get in touch with Heather at .css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}