Lipoedema is a chronic condition that affects women (men rarely) and involves the body producing an abnormal amount of adipose (fat) tissue and this fatty tissue settling under the skin - . usually around the hips, buttocks and thighs which then become disproportionately large in comparison with the rest of the body.  It can progress to the arms and other areas of the body but the hands and feet are left unaffected.  There are 4 stages and 5 types of Lipoedema as the condition progresses.

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Many women are unfortunately told by their GP to lose weight and exercise as the condition is often mistaken for obesity. This causes additional distress to the patients which can lead to depression and anxiety. Due to its nature, Lipoedema causes pain in the joints and also restricts movement which hinders exercise and quality of life, creating a viscous circle.  If left untreated it can also lead to Secondary Lymphoedema due to adipose (fatty) tissue adding pressure to the already struggling veins and lymphatic vessels.  

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What are the symptoms?

• Legs that are larger in size especially around the hip, buttocks and thighs - ladies often find they have to buy clothes for the lower half of the body in larger sizes than the upper body

• Fat pads below the knee or skin folds around the ankles

• Affects both legs (bilateral)

• Legs often feel painful and heavy

• Skin bruises easily

• Diet and exercise does not reduce limb size

• Higher inflammatory markers on blood tests

• Due to condition, knees can become "knocked" and knee pain can increase with reduced range of motion

• The condition can progress to the arms

• Evidence to suggest it is hereditary 

 

Treatment options:

These are personalised and tailored to the individual, but include:

 

• Compression garments (these can be quite funky now!) to support the inflamed tissue, reducing pain and increasing movement

• Skin care

• Diet - there are many thoughts out there but due to there being a larger amount of inflammation in the body with Lipoedema, an anti-inflammatory diet is often recommended

• Exercise & Mobility

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) - to reduce the pain and feeling of heaviness of the limbs  and can also reduce any oedema (fluid) that may be present

• Liposuction which is only available privately and care should be taken to ensure your chosen surgeon is experienced with Lipoedema

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There are some great sites that you can visit for more information - www.lipoedema.co.uk and www.talklipoedema.org.

 

If you feel this is something you've been battling, I can help.  You can book in for an initial  assessment where a full health history is taken, you are listened to and a tailored plan put in place to support you. With your consent, a letter can be sent to your GP with the diagnosis/assessment for ongoing support and, if appropriate an onward referral to the Lymphoedema Service.  I can also request they prescribe compression garments (I prefer the leggings to support the whole leg and waist) subject to there not being any arterial issues.  I am able to measure you at a subsequent appointment.  

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