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Ongoing lymphatic care · South Berkeley
Manual Lymph Drainage for Lymphedema. You know the feeling of a limb starting to fill.
When you live with lymphedema, you often feel a change before anyone can see it. A ring is tighter. A sleeve feels different. During an appointment, people will sometimes tell me they can already feel the fluid moving. I believe what you feel in your own body, even before I can see it.
- Method
- Dr. Vodder MLD, certified since 2009
- Best suited to
- Ongoing maintenance care
- Also needed
- Diagnosis and compression
- First step
- A free phone call with me
The difference between edema and lymphedema
Edema is not lymphedema.
Edema is ordinary swelling. Anyone can have it after an injury, like a sprained ankle, and it usually resolves.
Lymphedema is ongoing swelling caused by a lymphatic system that cannot drain normally. Primary lymphedema begins with lymph vessels that did not develop normally. It may first show up around puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or after an injury that never quite settles. It often affects both sides and may begin in the feet and move upward.
Secondary lymphedema happens after damage to the lymphatic system, often from surgery, lymph node removal, or radiation. It usually affects the side that was treated and may begin closer to the missing or damaged nodes, such as the upper arm before the hand.
The name of the game is always staying ahead of the fluid. It is far easier than letting it get away and trying to bring it back.
How this works
What I help with, and my limits.
Most people I see are managing lymphedema over time. They know how fluid building feels and what helps.
Maintenance care
Regular appointments can help keep fluid moving and support the routine you already have. Ongoing maintenance is the part of lymphedema care I do most.
Early signs
Heaviness and tightness often come before visible swelling. If you feel a change, I do not dismiss it just because someone else cannot see it yet.
Working with your garments
I do not prescribe compression garments. I can look at how yours is fitting and help you decide what to ask the person who does.
Home devices
If you use a pneumatic pump such as a FlexiTouch, we can talk about how it fits with your appointments here.
Skin protection
Skin care matters when a limb is at risk for infection. I will go over the practical things you need to watch for.
Knowing what to ask for
Sometimes you need help finding the right words and asking again. I will help you understand what to request and why it matters.
Getting properly set up
Diagnosis first, then everything else.
If you have not been diagnosed, that is the first step. A diagnosis can give you access to compression garments and may help with insurance coverage. I cannot diagnose lymphedema myself.
If you are newly diagnosed, carrying a lot of fluid, or need wrapping and intensive treatment, tell me on the call. If your insurance covers a clinic that provides that level of care, use it. I will help you work out what to ask for.
After that comes maintenance. The goal is to stay ahead of the fluid with care you can keep doing over time.
Please read this one
Cellulitis, and why it matters.
Your skin is the first line of defence
After node removal or radiation, that area may have less protection from infection. A small cut, bite, or scratch can matter more.
It can become serious quickly
An infection can become cellulitis, and cellulitis can become very serious. It may begin with redness, warmth, swelling, or feeling as though you have the flu.
So
Wear gloves for dishes and gardening, keep shoes on outdoors, and take care of any break in the skin. If the area becomes red, warm, or more swollen, or you feel unwell, call your doctor that day.
One word people often mix up
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection. Cellulite is the dimpled fat many people have on their thighs. They are completely different things.
Before you call
Questions people ask me.
What is the difference between edema and lymphedema?
Edema is ordinary swelling and usually resolves. Lymphedema is ongoing swelling caused by a lymphatic system that cannot drain normally, so it needs long-term care and management.
Can lymphedema be cured?
No. Lymphedema is managed rather than cured. Consistent care, compression when prescribed, movement, and skin protection can make a real difference in how it feels and how well it stays controlled.
Do I need a diagnosis before seeing you?
A diagnosis is important because it can give you access to compression garments and covered care. If you are not sure what is happening, set up a call. I can help you work out who to see, but I cannot diagnose you.
What are the earliest signs?
Heaviness and tightness often come first. A ring, watch, or sleeve may suddenly feel snug. You may notice the change before anyone else can see it.
Do you take intensive or wrapping cases?
I mostly provide maintenance care. If you need intensive decongestive therapy or wrapping, especially when insurance will cover a clinic, start there. I can help with maintenance afterward.
How often should I come?
There is no set schedule for everyone. It depends on your body, the care you already have, and what you can keep doing. We will make a plan that is realistic for you and your budget.
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The next step
Tell me what you notice.
Set up a free 15-minute call and tell me what you are noticing, whether you have a diagnosis, and what care you already have. I will explain where I may fit and what else you may need to ask for.