Lymphedema? Christy McLellan Asonglefac, DPT Answers Questions On That And More…

2019 is starting off great for the Yalich Clinic in Glen Burnie. The latest addition to the team does traditional physical therapy and a whole lot more. Recently, we sat down with her and asked questions to allow you to get to know her better.

Christy, how did you get into the field of physical therapy?

I was first introduced to physical therapy after an injury in college. I was on an exhibition gymnastics team called Gymkana at the University of Maryland in College Park, where I injured my knee and ended up in physical therapy before and after having surgery. I instantly knew I wanted to be a physical therapist and within the next two years started physical therapy school at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore.  During my clinical affiliations in physical therapy school, I really enjoyed working with patients with neurological diagnoses in the outpatient physical therapy setting and this focus helped establish my patient population after completing school. Over the past four years I have worked with patients with many different diagnoses and medically complex backgrounds in order to try and become as well-rounded as possible as a physical therapist. Some of the areas I have taken particular interest in include care for patients with complex orthopedic conditions, neurological conditions, oncology diagnoses, patients with amputations, and patients preparing for bariatric weight-loss surgery. 

I know you treat what we call “typical” physical therapy related conditions, but you are specializing in so much more. Tell me about your special interests and fields of expertise.

One of the groups of patients I have enjoyed working with most have been patients with various cancer diagnoses. I pursued a certification as a lymphedema therapist for the upper extremity in order to more effectively and comprehensively treat patients with breast cancer. I am extremely passionate about providing care for patients with cancer before, during and after cancer treatments. Cancer has such a wide variety of effects on a person’s body, and I have found my niche in helping patients rehabilitate from the physical side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. One of my greatest passions as a physical therapist as well as in my personal life is providing ways for individuals to be physically active, no matter what their physical ability level.

You brought your skills to the Yalich Clinic. Why did you pick the Yalich Clinic? 

I chose to work with the Yalich Clinic Team because each interaction I have had with the team has been extremely positive and forward – thinking. I really appreciate the idea of working with a smaller group of professionals to provide excellence in patient care, and I believe that the Yalich Clinic will provide that atmosphere and standard of care.

Any special interests outside of the work you do at the Yalich Clinic?

Outside of my physical therapy career, I enjoy running with a group called Athletes Serving Athletes, that provides a running experience for individuals with various ability levels. I also participate in CrossFit, and have completed my CrossFit Level 1 Trainer certificate as well as the CrossFit Adaptive Training course within the past year. 

For more information on Lymphedema, CLICK HERE.