From the Research
Lipedema is a chronic and progressive disease of adipose tissue caused by abnormal fat accumulation in subcutaneous tissue, primarily in the legs and sometimes arms, affecting almost exclusively women, and is characterized by symmetrical swelling, pain, tenderness, and easy bruising, with the feet typically remaining unaffected. The condition is believed to have genetic components and is often triggered or worsened during hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause 1. Treatment options include conservative measures like compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and specialized exercise programs to manage symptoms and prevent progression. Weight management through anti-inflammatory diets, such as a ketogenic diet, can help, as it has been shown to achieve significant weight loss and improvement in pain and quality of life in patients with lipedema 2. For more advanced cases, liposuction specifically designed for lipedema may be considered to remove the abnormal fat deposits, as it has been shown to significantly reduce pain and improve quality of life in patients with lipedema 3, 1.
Some key characteristics of lipedema include:
- Abnormal fat accumulation in subcutaneous tissue
- Symmetrical swelling, pain, tenderness, and easy bruising
- Primarily affects the legs and sometimes arms
- Feet typically remain unaffected
- Genetic components and hormonal triggers
- Progressive condition that can worsen over time if left untreated
Early diagnosis is important as lipedema is progressive and can worsen over time, potentially leading to mobility issues and psychological distress. While there is no cure, proper management can significantly improve quality of life and prevent complications. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation applications, such as complex decongestive physiotherapy, gait training, hydrotherapy, aerobic exercise, and resistance exercise training, can also be beneficial in the management of lipedema 4. Additionally, dietary supplements, such as green tea, caffeine, chromium, carnitine, and conjugated linoleic acid, may be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, although further studies are needed to test their effectiveness in treating lipedema 5.