Lipoedema

What is lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a long term and complex condition that affects women and leads to an increase in adipose tissue (fat) and pain in the legs and, sometimes, the arms. We do not know how many women have lipoedema.

The increase in weight around the legs usually starts in weight gain at times associated with hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause.

What are the symptoms of lipoedema?

Women often have symptoms of unusually large fatty legs for a number of years before symptoms of pain or the feeling of severe heavy legs may occur, at which point the condition may lead them to ask their health care professional and it may be suggested they have lipoedema.

It is thought that the pain experienced by people with lipoedema is related to inflammation and reduced oxygen to the tissues. Unfortunately there is no test you can undergo to diagnose lipoedema, therefore not a lot of research exists about it.

There is no evidence of swelling in lipoedema but it is possible to have lipoedema and also suffer from lymphoedema / chronic oedema which may be related to obesity or other conditions such as vein disease.

It is not thought that lipoedema leads to weight gain but gaining weight does make the symptoms of  lipoedema (pain and heaviness) worse.

Treatment – what treatment will I be offered for lipoedema?

Many women with lipoedema are also over weight and in order to reduce the symptoms of lipoedema you should try and maintain a healthy weight (not diet). If you are very overweight you should discuss this with your primary care professional for advice.

Focus on increasing your activity/movement.

It has recently been shown that regular exercise can reduce inflammation and it increases blood flow and oxygen in the adipose tissue (fat). Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of pain and heaviness in the legs as well as being good for our mental well-being. Many patients with lipoedema say their symptoms are improved with swimming or water aerobics.

Wear compression

Compression therapy has an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissues and can improve microcirculation so wearing compression hosiery can make your legs feel more comfortable. However compression will not reduce the amount of fatty tissue or prevent an increase in fat if you gain weight. Flat knit compression hosiery may be more comfortable and would require referral to a specialist to  be measured, prescribed and fitted.

Liposuction

There is not enough evidence to support recommending liposuction for lipoedema, it is not widely available on the NHS and any effects may only be temporary.

If you think you have lipoedema or if you feel that your mental health is affected by lipoedema you should get in touch with your primary health care professional.

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