Lipoedema Management

Lipoedema Management

What is Lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a chronic condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of painful fatty tissue, predominantly affecting females. It typically manifests as symmetrical fat buildup in the arms, legs, buttocks, or trunk.  It tends to be characterised by the following:


  • Disproportionate bilateral fat growth in the legs, buttocks, thighs, and/or arms
  • Appearance of lumpy, nodular fat in other areas of body, including abdomen, groin, breasts and scalp
  • Waist may appear smaller in proportion to lipoedema affected areas of the body
  • Distinct ‘bracelet’ or ‘cuffing’ effect at the wrist and ankle may be present, as feet and hands usually not affected
  • Easily bruised with minimal trauma
  • Sensation of heaviness, achiness or discomfort in affected areas
  • Affected areas are sensitive to touch and often feel cold
  • Soft, wobbly fat that can have a cellulite or ‘mattress’ like appearance
  • Increased discomfort in hot weather
  • Diet and exercise has minimal impact on affected areas
  • Reduced hair growth on affected areas


Source: Lipoedema Australia


Image Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17175-lipedema

Lipedema is not Obesity Lipedema is often mistaken for obesity, but they are distinct conditions.


Unlike obesity-related fat, which is distributed throughout the body, Lipedema-related fat primarily accumulates in the limbs and sometimes the lower trunk, sparing the hands and feet.


Learn more about Lipoedema

How Can Quintessential Care Assist

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

In someone with lipoedema, the lymphatics may not effectively drain the enlarged areas of fat tissue, so fluid accumulates. This leads to inflammation and more swelling. MLD can help to reduce the fluid and inflammation, improving symptoms such as heaviness, swelling and discomfort.


Compression

Compression assists by providing a light pressure over the limb which helps circulation and reduce fluid build up, which in turn can reduce negative symptoms such as heavy limbs, pain and increased inflammation. Furthermore, compression garments can help improve the shape of limbs affected by lipoedema.



Information and Support

Further details on enhancing overall lymphatic health and wellbeing, as well as exploring less conservative treatment options, are available.


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