Testimonials
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After being diagnosed with lymphedema following multiple breast cancer surgeries I felt like there was no hope for me, but Michelle provided me with the guidance that I needed to soothe my discomfort. She has been so helpful throughout my journey that I really don't know where I'd be without her expertise.
Michelle provided me with in-depth information about how the lymphatic system works so I truly understood what was going on with my body. She performed manual lymphatic drainage and taught me how to do it on myself. She also showed me how to do exercises to help my lymphedema and she miraculously weaned me off my compression sleeve.
Michelle is an amazing person, a skilled lymphedema specialist, and a talented physical therapist. I couldn't recommend her more.
Summer F.
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I saw Michelle when I thought my back was about to go out. I have had chronic lower back pain for years, but when I walked in the door I was wincing from something worse than usual. Michelle was very easy to talk to and asked questions that got to the heart of the matter. Through detailed information gathering and a hands-on analysis, Michelle was able to diagnose the problem, apply therapeutic massage, stretches and ice- right there in her office.
Michelle performed what felt like a miracle. I walked out with a list of therapeutic activities I could perform by myself, and... I was walking without shooting pain! I would definitely recommend Michelle for physical therapy. She is skilled, intuitive and pleasant.
Nancy W.
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My medical oncologist recommended Michelle Folsom (who is PT, DPT, CLT-LANA) for treatment of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. I had not been aware of this problem and am so glad she recommended Michelle who has an independent practice in Santa Barbara, CA.
Michelle is dedicated to helping people with lymphatic issues. Her instruction throughout was so clear. And if I didn’t get it at first, she would willingly explain further. She is an outstanding teacher and freely shared her knowledge about her field.
I so appreciated that she put a great deal of thought into recommending the best compression garments for my needs. They have proven to be quite satisfactory.
In my case, an hour-long appointment covered any issues that had arisen during the week. We would review and she would clarify any techniques she had taught me for self-lymphatic drainage to get the best result. She watched my technique carefully and patiently explained the goals. Finally, there would be a session of lymphatic massage. I felt very comfortable with her in what was an entirely new experience.
Initially, I was given helpful handouts on how to do the self-lymphatic drainage – with in-office instruction. I was also given a link to a video describing and demonstrating the self-lymphatic drainage routine that was helpful. She even made a video specifically for me which has been so great to use in the privacy of my own home!
She even helped me with some posture issues and brought to light the reason for tightness and discomfort in and around the area of radiation. She also included several stretches which have been helping a great deal. I’m deeply grateful for her help and expertise.
The name of her business Heart of Gold is aptly named. She has been unfailingly patient, cheerful and encouraging throughout my experience with her.
I would highly recommend her to anyone needing this kind of care.
Bonnie V.