From a young age I have been fascinated with the resilience of the human body and the supportive properties of nourishing food.  Through my own journey as a competitive athlete and outdoor enthusiast facing various injuries and chronic pain, I have learned first hand the importance of a multifaceted approach to recovery and restoring vitality.

As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, certified lymphedema therapist, and nutritional therapy practitioner I am dedicated to empowering my patients in discovering their optimal health and wellness.  I support my patients to enhance their resilience through restorative bodywork, intentional movement, and mindful nutrition.

 

While I enjoy treating patients of all ages and diagnoses, I have a specific passion for working with people during and beyond their cancer diagnosis and treatments, with patients managing lymphedema or various types of swelling, people recovering from a sports injury, surgery, or car accident, and supporting people living with autoimmune disorders.  

 

My diverse clinical experience in lymphedema and oncology rehabilitation, yoga, aquatics and Pilates based exercise, chronic pain management, and a myriad of manual therapy techniques including manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, cupping, and the Graston Technique® allow me to use numerous tools to find creative solutions to your complex health concerns.  

 

Originally from Northern Wisconsin, I have enjoyed living in and exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest for the past decade. In my free time I enjoy creative cooking, travel photography, and being inspired by nature and outdoor activities.  My joy for traveling and learning about other cultures has inspired study and work around the globe, including Ecuador, Turkey, Egypt, India, Thailand, China and Haiti.  Teaching is an important part of my practice and I have enjoyed sharing information on lymphedema and oncology rehabilitation and nutrition at various universities and community groups supporting cancer survivors.  

 

As your practitioner I value collaborating with you on developing an individualized approach to reaching your wellness goals.  

 

I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you!  

 

Dr. Mitchell’s specialties include, yet are not limited to: 

• Musculoskeletal pain relief
• Rehabilitation following cancer diagnosis and treatment
• Lymphedema, lipedema, vascular swelling management
• Sports injury recovery
• Motor vehicle accident rehabilitation
• Post surgical support (oncology, orthopedics, gender confirmation, etc.)
• Scar tissue remodeling and fascial restrictions (graft vs. host disease, reconstruction surgery, joint surgeries, etc.)
• Lymphatic support for inflammatory and autoimmune disorders

 

Dr. Elsa Mitchell’s Education: 

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): Pacific University, Forest Grove, Oregon
• Klose Training Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Lymphology Association of North America (CLT-LANA)
• Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP): Nutritional Therapy Association 
• Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Women’s Studies: St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota