Lipoedema is a fat metabolism imbalance where fat deposits occur mainly in the legs, thighs and buttocks.

A person suffering from lipodema can have a slim upper body and be quite large from the waist down to the ankles. Generally, the feet are not affected. In some cases, lipodema can also spread to the torso and the arms. If untreated, the condition can deteriorate and swelling can occur because the lymphatic capillaries are impinged and can no longer function adequately to remove the excess fluid from the tissue. This situation is called lipo-lymphoedema.

Lipoedema is quite widely spread but generally is very poorly diagnosed and often confused with being overweight. It appears to affect more women than men, which leads to believe that a hormonal imbalance may be at the root of the problem. It typically manifests at puberty and worsens after pregnancy or at the onset of the menopause. It is also believed to be genetic with a family history of weight problems, fluid retention and/or venous insufficiency. Unlike the fat associated with excess weight, lipodema cannot be exercised away, does not respond to diet, and there is no cure for it. This is why most people feel confused, frustrated and alone in their quest for good health. However, the good news is that compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage massage can help decrease the pressure sensitivity, reduce and control both lipodema and lymphoedema.

The focus of the treatment is to alleviate the symptoms and control the condition. The results are gradual and require a lot of patience and dedication by the patient. The sooner the condition is recognised, the sooner the management plan can be implemented.