Lipoedema

What is Lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a long-term condition that causes an abnormal build-up of fat cells, usually in the legs and sometimes the arms. It mostly affects women and is often misunderstood or not diagnosed for many years.

Many people with lipoedema have been told they just need to diet or exercise more — but this is not the whole story. Lipoedema is a genetic condition that does not respond to diet and exercise in the same way as normal body fat does.

Knowing you have lipoedema can feel empowering — it’s not your fault.

Why I Treat Lipoedema (Even Though It’s Not Cancer-Related)

As part of my specialist training in Lymphoedema Therapy through Macquarie University, I also studied lipoedema. While lipoedema is not a cancer-related condition, it is often under-recognised and there are only a small number of clinicians with the knowledge and experience to treat it. Because of this, I feel it’s important to offer support, information, and treatment options for people in my community living with lipoedema.

Common Signs

You might have lipoedema if you notice:

• Heavier legs or arms that don’t slim down with diet or exercise.

• Your lower body looks out of proportion with your upper body.

• Your legs are tender, bruise easily, or feel painful to touch.

• Swelling that does not reduce much with rest or putting your feet up.

• Fat tissue that stops suddenly at your ankles or wrists (called the “bracelet effect”).

• Family members with similar body shape or symptoms.

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Lipoedema often runs in families.

There is some thinking that it can start or get worse during big hormone changes, such as Puberty, Pregnancy and Menopause [however some research indicates this might not always be the case].

In lipoedema, the fat cells grow bigger and inflamed, which can make your legs or arms feel heavy, sore, and tender.

Unlike lymphoedema (which is a build-up of fluid), lipoedema is mainly a build-up of fat. However, some people can develop lipo-lymphoedema, where the lymphatic system also struggles to drain fluid.

How is it diagnosed?

There is no single test for lipoedema — diagnosis is based on:

• Your medical and family history.

• A physical examination.

• Ruling out other conditions like general obesity or lymphoedema.

Can it get worse?

Lipoedema is a lifelong condition — but it can be managed. If untreated, it can sometimes lead to lymphoedema (swelling due to fluid build-up).

Weight gain and obesity can worsen lipoedema and it’s symptoms.

Managing your lipoedema early can help reduce pain, swelling, and other complications.

How can you manage lipoedema?

While there is no cure yet, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and feel more comfortable.

✅ Education & Support

✅ Healthy Eating
A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help.

✅ Exercise & Mobility

✅ Skin Care & Protection

✅ Compression Therapy
Special compression garments or bandages can help reduce pain and support the tissues. Medical Pumps may also be helpful for some people.

✅ Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

✅ Surgery (if suitable)
Some select people benefit from surgical options though surgery is not for everyone — and even if completed lifestyle and other treatments are still important.

✅ Mental-emotional support

✅ Pain Management

✅ Future advancements & Medical management

Helpful Resources

• Lipoedema Australia:
  www.lipoedemaaustralia.com.au

• UK Best Practice Guidelines:
  www.lipoedema.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/WUK_Lipoedema-BPS_Web.pdf

Need help? Get in touch

If you think you might have lipoedema, or want help to manage it, I’m here to support you. Please feel free to reach out.

Rachael