Lymphoedema & Vascular

Lipoedema

Lipoedema is a painful hereditary condition that typically affects women and will generally present around times of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause. Lipoedema is not an oedema per se but a disorder of adipose tissue that results in a disproportionate accumulation of fat cells in the legs, thighs, buttocks and, less frequently, the arms. Lipoedema is frequently misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphoedema and this can cause challenges in accessing appropriate treatment and support. 

Lipoedema can impact on a person’s function and present challenges with mobility tasks, exercise, difficulty with self-care tasks and also challenges associated with dressing and fitting into regular clothing. Individuals with lipoedema will also often report pain to the effected limbs as well as symptoms such disproportionate weight loss (i.e. weight loss from the affected area is challenging), bruising to the effecting areas as well as the presence of varicosities (superficial veins). 

Treatment of lipoedema aims to improve symptoms and may include manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy and garment prescription. We can also assist with supporting management through holistic review of your circumstances and consideration of other practices that may assist in optimisation of your condition.