From the Research
Definition and Diagnosis
- Lipedema is a disorder of adipose tissue that primarily affects females and is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema 1.
- It is characterized by the bilateral and asymmetrical expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue, leading to chronic pain, swelling, and other discomforts 2.
- Lipedema is distinct from obesity, with different etiologies and requiring its own specific treatment 3.
Comparison to Obesity
- Lipedema and obesity are two separate conditions, with lipedema being a chronic disease characterized by abnormal fat accumulation 4.
- While obesity can be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, lipedema is resistant to these changes 4.
- Lipedema fat is painful and can become obese, causing gait and joint abnormalities, fatigue, lymphedema, and psychosocial distress 5.
Treatment and Management
- Management of lipedema is complex and distinct from lymphedema, with treatments such as complex decongestive physiotherapy, liposuction, and laser-assisted lipolysis 1.
- Physical exercise emerges as a key role in the management of lipedema, contributing to multiple benefits, including improvements in mitochondrial function, lymphatic drainage, and reduction of inflammation 4.
- Various types of exercise, such as aquatic exercises and strength training, have been shown to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients with lipedema 4.
Challenges and Future Directions
- Lipedema is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding of the condition 3, 2, 1.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and treatments for lipedema, including the development of standardized guidelines for physical exercise prescription and long-term management of patients with lipedema 4.