ELM Services
Care is designed to restore strength, mobility, and confidence at every stage of recovery through precise, compassionate, one-on-one treatment.
Founded by Erica, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Elm Rehabilitation Services specializes in lymphedema management and oncology rehabilitation.
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Lymphedema can be a lifelong condition, but with the right care, it can be effectively managed. We provide comprehensive treatment for both primary and secondary lymphedema, including cases related to cancer treatment, surgery, trauma, or other medical conditions.
Our services include Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression bandaging and garment guidance, therapeutic exercise, skin care education, and infection prevention strategies.
Beyond reducing swelling, our focus is on long-term success. We equip you with practical tools and self-management strategies so you can confidently maintain your progress and protect your health.
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Cancer and its treatments can affect strength, endurance, balance, mobility, and overall function. Our oncology rehabilitation program supports individuals before, during, and after treatment, addressing the physical challenges that may arise along the way.
ELM rehab treats cancer-related fatigue, post-surgical limitations, scar tissue restrictions, radiation fibrosis, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, balance impairments, and generalized weakness or deconditioning. We also specialize in shoulder dysfunction following breast cancer treatment.
Every session is tailored to ensure safe, evidence-based progression while respecting your energy levels and recovery timeline. Our goal is to help you return to daily activities — and the life you value — with greater resilience and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Lymphedema in cancer patients usually happens because lymph nodes or vessels are removed, damaged, or blocked, which disrupts normal fluid drainage.
But early detection and treatment can drastically improve outcomes and reduce visible swelling. Contact ELM rehab for a free phone consultation.
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Edema is a general term for swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues. It can happen for many reasons, including:
Injury or inflammation
Pregnancy
Long periods of sitting or standing
Heart, kidney, or vascular conditions
Certain medications
Edema can affect almost any part of the body and is often temporary. In many cases, it improves once the underlying cause is addressed.
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Lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by a disruption or damage to the lymphatic system. This system helps remove fluid, waste, and toxins from the body. When it’s not functioning properly, lymph fluid builds up and causes persistent swelling.
Lymphedema commonly occurs:
After lymph node removal or radiation therapy
Following cancer treatment
Due to congenital (primary) lymphatic conditions
After trauma or certain surgeries
Unlike general edema, lymphedema is progressive without proper management and requires specialized treatment such as manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, and ongoing care.
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Proper assessment ensures you receive the most effective and appropriate care for your condition.
Treatment typically includes:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) – a gentle, specialized technique that stimulates lymph flow
Compression therapy (bandaging or custom garments)
Therapeutic exercise designed to support lymph movement
Skin care to reduce infection risk
Education for long-term self-management
This comprehensive approach is often referred to as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
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In Virginia, physical therapists have direct access, meaning you do not legally need a physician referral to begin physical therapy.
However, there are some important details:
A referral is required if care extends beyond a certain timeframe (typically 30 days) without physician involvement.
Insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement, depending on your policy.
Post-surgical cases often benefit from physician collaboration to ensure proper precautions and protocol adherence.
At ELM Rehab, we prefer a referral if you have recently had surgery. This allows us to:
Confirm the exact type of surgery performed
Clarify post-operative precautions
Communicate directly with your surgeon or oncologist as needed
Ensure safe and coordinated care
While a referral may not be legally required to start therapy in Virginia, having one after surgery helps us provide the most informed and effective treatment possible.
Rooted in expertise and purpose, care begins with a thorough evaluation and individualized plan. Treatment progresses thoughtfully and strategically, reducing symptoms, restoring mobility, rebuilding strength, and supporting confident, lasting recovery at every stage.
Comprehensive Assessment
We begin by listening and learning your story. Your first visit includes a detailed evaluation of your history, current symptoms, movement, and daily challenges. Together, we establish meaningful goals and outline a clear, individualized plan forward.
Personalized Care Plan
Your treatment plan is built specifically around you. We consider your diagnosis, treatment history, lifestyle, and priorities to create structured, measurable steps that guide progress while remaining flexible to your needs.
Focused One-on-One Treatment
Each session is dedicated entirely to your care. We use skilled, evidence-based techniques to address swelling, mobility, strength, and function while adjusting treatment based on your response and recovery stage.
Education for Lasting Results
We believe confidence comes from understanding. You will receive clear guidance, practical tools, and personalized exercises so you can manage symptoms, maintain improvements, and continue progressing beyond the clinic.
