What Is Lipedema?

By Kaitlyn Berry

Magothy Therapy & Wellness

. https://www.magothytherapy.com/

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What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as obesity or Lymphedema. Lipedema is actually a chronic condition that is symmetrical but disproportionate build up of nodular and fibrotic fat in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms (30%). However, the hands and feet are NOT affected, giving a cuffing presentation at those points.  It is characterized by fibrotic loose connective tissue and it typically occurs, almost exclusively, in women (11%). The onset is most commonly around times of hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. The exact causes of lipedema are not known, but main factors may include hormones, genetics, inflammation, metabolism, and abnormalities within the lymphatic system. Lipedema can worsen in the advanced stages and can place someone at increased risk for lipolymphedema (Lymphedema induced by Lipedema).

Characteristics of Lipedema can include:

• Change in skin texture (it can look and feel lumpy)
• Inflammation
• Joint & mobility issues
• Skin hypothermia
• Pain
• Easy bruising
• Fatigue
• Diet resistant fat

The severity of these symptoms can range from none to severe and they can be constant or come and go.

Stages Of Lipedema

• Stage 1: Generally smooth and even skin surface with enlarged fat tissue, and swelling that can come and go
• Stage 2: Uneven skin pattern with indentations and dimpling in the skin, and development of lipomas (a fatty lump of tissue under the skin)
• Stage 3: Large adipose tissue growths causing deformity of the thighs and around the knees
• Stage 4: Lipolymphedema which means both lipidema and lymhedema are present. Typically there are also large overhangs of tissue on the arms and/or legs called lobules

How Is It Diagnosed?

• Physical exam
• Family history
• Medical testing
• Lymphoscintography
• Ultrasound to rule out peripheral vascular disease
• Genetic testing (AKR1C1)

An Overview Of Lipedema Therapy 

CDT (MLD, exercise, compression, skin care)  + nutritional strategies + complimentary assistive device use. 

• Exercise: Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, Strength Training, Cardio, and best of all Aqua Lipedema Therapy (this is different from Aqua Fit). 
• Complimentary Assistive Devices: Cupping, Kinesiotaping, Shockwave Therapy, Vibration Therapy, Rebounding, Low Level Light Therapy, Pneumatic Pump use, Rollers, Gua Sha and Dry Brushing. 
• Nutritional Strategies: MRT testing for best diet management, Vitamins & Supplements, Herbs, and Essential Oils.

A certified lymphedema therapists (CLT) is the perfect provider to evaluate and treat lipedema. These therapists have the training to differentiate between lymphedema, lipedema, and other types of swelling, and can work with you to better manage this chronic condition. 

Surgery is another option considered. Liposuction is the main surgical intervention for lipedema. Although there is limited research, studies have found liposuction may be effective in reducing the size of the extremities and complaints associated with lipedema (ie spontaneous pain, easy bruising, sensitivity to pressure, impairment in quality of life, restrictions to mobility, edema, feeling of tension and general impairment.)  

Most insurance companies and many surgeons will want to see that you have tried conservative treatments and that you have a good routine with these treatments before doing surgery. Furthermore, even after surgery, you will need to maintain the conservative treatment habits you established to best manage your lipedema.