Lipoedema
Lipoedema is characterised by an abnormal accumulation of fatty tissue around the hips, thighs and buttocks and occasionally the arms. It is a hereditary condition more often seen in women.
Signs and Symptoms
- Symptoms are in both legs.
- The waist is proportionally smaller than the hips and thighs.
- Feet and hands are exempt. and a ‘bracelet’ effect can appear just above the ankles and wrists
- Legs/arms can be very painful to touch.
- Affected limbs bruise easily.
- There may be cold patches.
- Symptoms may be worse in hot weather or during hormonal changes
- Limbs may feel achy or more swollen at the end of day.
- Traditional methods of weight loss will have minimal effects on limb shape.
- Skin can have a cellulite appearance.
- Joints may have extra mobility.
Treatment
- Infrared laser to encourage lymphatic drainage and improve inflammation.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage to remove excess fluid.
- Intermittent pneumatic compression pumps to assist with fluid movement and break down fibrotic tissue.
- Low impact exercise such as hydrotherapy.
- Compression garments to assist with swelling and pain.
- Diet changes to reduce systemic inflammation caused by lipoedema.
- Referral to surgeons for debulking or liposuction surgeries.
- Musculoskeletal physiotherapy