Ellen Poage, APRN, MPH, CLT‑LANA®
Lymphedema Expert & Nurse Practitioner — Fort Myers, FL
With nearly 30 years of experience treating both primary and secondary lymphedema, Ellen Poage is a certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT‑LANA®) and an Advanced Practice Nurse holding an MPH and APRN credentials. She is nationally recognized through the National Lymphedema Network Expert Clinician program for her leadership in clinical care, research, and teaching
Why Choose Ellen?
Board‑certified professional with advanced lymphatic training and decades of experience
Published author and collaborator in clinical lymphedema research and academic trials
Extensive clinical roles, including director of lymphedema management in Naples and Fort Myers practices
Ellen provides individualized, evidence‑based care for acute and chronic swelling and related symptoms, offering modalities such as:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
- gentle, targeted massage to promote lymph flow
Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
- incorporating skin care, compression bandaging, garments, and therapeutic exercise
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
- an FDA-approved option shown to reduce limb volume and ease fibrosis more quickly than standard MLD alone
Additional complementary therapies: acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, reiki, auriculotherapy and more to support pain relief and holistic healing
Advanced, Research-Backed Therapies
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) to reduce swelling and promote lymph flow
- Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) combining massage, compression, exercise, and skin care
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for accelerated results and reduced fibrosis
- Integration of acupuncture, cupping, and energy-based techniques when beneficial
Personalized, Whole-Patient Approach
- Comprehensive evaluations, including limb measurements and medical history review
- Individualized care plans tailored to your specific condition and goals
- Education on self-care techniques to empower you between sessions
- Ongoing follow-up to track progress and refine treatment
How Treatment Works
Lets get started
Comprehensive evaluation
including limb volume measurement (circumference or BIS / L‑Dex), skin condition, and health history
Individualized treatment plan
featuring MLD, compression, LLLT sessions and supportive tools
Empowerment through education
you’ll learn self-care techniques and lifestyle modifications to prevent flare-ups
Ongoing follow-up
assessing progress, adjusting compression garments, and refining your care strategy over time
Testimonials
My Happy Clients!
“She combines advanced modalities like laser therapy with personalized education. That’s rare.”
What to look for, especially after surgery or radiation:
Signs of Lymphedema
- 01
Limb Swelling
You may notice a watch or ring is tight. Clothing can be difficult to put on.
- 02
Achy Heavy Feeling
Lymph accumulation can cause soreness and a heavy feeling in the limb.
- 03
Difficulty Moving
You may experience restricted movement in the affected limb.
- 04
Skin Infections
You may experience repeated skin infections.
- 05
Hard Tight Skin
Check the condition and texture of the skin for abnormal changes like hardening or tightness.
- 06
Fluid Leaking
Fluid leaking though the skin is a sign to talk to us about lymphedema.
