About Ellen
Lymphedema expert
30 years of experience
Ellen Poage, APRN MPH CLT-LANA is a Nurse Practitioner certified by the Lymphedema Association of North America. She is considered an expert in the field and has published research on lymphedema.
Ellen is a highly skilled practitioner with an evidence-based approach to treating lymphedema. Drawing on her extensive training in various therapeutic modalities, such as vibration, cupping, and microcurrent point stimulation, she works with patients to reduce swelling, fibrosis, and pain, while improving range of motion after surgery.
Ellen’s educational background includes a degree in acupuncture from the University of Miami and a specialization in auriculotherapy, which she incorporates into her practice. Her collaboration with a breast surgeon has created a unique opportunity to improve early diagnosis and prevention of lymphedema. By recognizing the signs of lymphedema and educating patients about the possibility of this condition, Ellen and her team can help reduce long-term complications from surgery and radiation and improve outcomes for patients with breast cancer.
Ellen is a dedicated advocate for lymphedema management and research, having written several journal articles on the subject for organizations such as the Oncology Nursing Society and the American Lymphedema Framework Project. She is also involved in local initiatives, such as advocating for compression garment funds through Lymphedema Resources, Inc. Additionally, Ellen travels to Washington D.C. to lobby for the Lymphedema Treatment Act, a bill aimed at securing Medicare funding for compression garments.
Recognizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle in improving patient outcomes, Ellen emphasizes the incorporation of exercise and diet into her patients’ overall recovery from surgery. She recognizes that lymphedema is often an overlooked complication of surgery and radiation, and works tirelessly to manage this condition and improve patients’ overall health and well-being. Her passion for helping patients achieve optimal health is unwavering.
Lymphedema Expertise
Published Articles
Oncology Nursing Society
Demystifying Lymphedema: Development of the Lymphedema Putting Evidence Into Practice® Card
PM&R
Complementary, alternative, and other noncomplete decongestive therapy treatment methods in the management of lymphedema
PM&R
Exploring the Usefulness of Botanicals as an Adjunctive Treatment for Lymphedema
Oncology Nursing Society
ONS Guidelines™ for Cancer Treatment–Related Lymphedema
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)
Complex Decongestive
Therapy (CDT)
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Post-op Therapies
Fascia Sculpting
Weight loss Guidance
Pain Relief Expert
Dry Needling
Trager Therapist
Additional complementary therapies: acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, reiki, auriculotherapy and more to support pain relief and holistic healing
it was Ellen who helped me heal and regain my life"
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