Drake Center: Specialized Medical & Rehabilitative Care

Lymphedema Management

Lymphedema is an excessive and chronic accumulation of lymph fluid that causes edema (swelling) — most often in the arms and legs, and sometimes in other parts of the body. This condition happens due to an impairment of the lymphatic system.

The most common causes are breast cancer with removal of lymph nodes or radiation treatment, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, cancer in the face or neck, abdominal cavity surgery, trauma to or removal of lymph nodes, or disorders dating from birth.

To respond to these needs, Drake Center offers prompt, aggressive, effective care for inpatients and outpatients using the Vodder technique, an internationally renowned treatment method.

Range of services

Our innovative lymphedema treatment plan includes, but is not limited to:

  • Patient education on skin care management and prevention techniques.
  • Manual lymphatic drainage - a specialized form of massage that stimulates the flow of lymph fluid and clears the body of excessive lymph accumulation.
  • Multi-layered, low-stretch bandages to enhance the effect of other activities in clearing lymph from the limb (patients receive instructional videos to help them learn gradually how to handle their own bandage application).
  • Special exercises that encourage the return of lymph to appropriate areas in the body.
  • Elastic support garments and gauntlets to maintain a stable limb size once it has been achieved.
  • Follow-up appointments as needed.
  • Information about community services, such as local support groups and the National Lymphedema Network.

Special training and experience

Drake Center's lead lymphedema therapist has advanced certification as an MLD/CDT therapist (Manual Lymph Drainage/Complete Decongestant Therapy), including expertise in facial and cervical (neck) lymphedema. This professional and other Drake Center lymphedema management therapists are highly trained clinical specialists with experience using the highly respected Vodder technique. The team works very closely with the patient’s primary physician or oncologist to help ensure the success of the treatment.

Call for more information

For more information on Drake Center's lymphedema management services, please call:

Local: 513-418-2798
Long-distance (toll-free): 800-948-0003 (ext. 2798)