Lipoedema: What It Is and How To Manage It
What is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema (sometimes spelled lipedema) is a long-term condition that affects how fat is stored in the body. It mostly affects women and can impact areas such as the lower body and, in some cases, the arms.
This article will help you to understand what lipoedema is, clear up common myths, and share simple ways to support your health, especially if you are living with diabetes.
Lipoedema was first described in 1940 as a chronic condition involving an abnormal build-up of fat tissue.
It most commonly affects the thighs, buttocks and lower legs, and sometimes the arms. The tissue in these areas may feel soft but uneven, often described as lumpy or "grainy" under the skin, or like small beads or nodules.
People with lipoedema often notice:
- Pain or tenderness
- Easy bruising
- A feeling of heaviness in the limbs
- Sometimes swelling or an increase in tissue size
It can also affect how the body functions day to day, including movement, daily activities, and emotional wellbeing.
A key sign of lipoedema is that while you may see increased weight or swelling in the legs and arms, the feet and hands are usually not affected, creating a "cuff" look at the ankles or wrists.
Lipoedema is not the same as regular weight gain, and it is not caused by overeating.
Why Does Lipoedema Happen?
Lipoedema is not fully understood, but it is believed that genetics and hormones play a key role. It often starts during times when we see big changes in hormones, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
It can also occur alongside other conditions, including issues with veins, the lymphatic system, joints, and body weight. Because lipoedema is often not detected early, people may be diagnosed with these other conditions first.
Does Lipoedema Always Get Worse?
Like all conditions, research into lipoedema and the way we think about the condition has changed over time. In the past, it was believed that it would always get worse. We now know this isn't always the case.
For some people, symptoms increase over time. For others, the condition can remain stable for many years.
What often changes is the management of the condition. Over time, people may experience:
- Increased pain or heaviness
- Reduced mobility
- Difficulty staying active
- Challenges managing weight
The focus is not just on the condition itself, but on managing the impact it is causing.
Finding the right support early can help people living with lipoedema to stay active, manage symptoms, and support your long-term health.
Common Misconceptions
There are many myths about lipoedema. Here are some of the most common:
"It's just obesity.": Lipoedema is a recognised medical condition and is different to obesity.
"Just lose weight and it will go away.": Healthy habits matter, but they don't remove lipoedema fat.
"It's caused by poor lifestyle choices.": Lipoedema is linked to hormones and genetics, not lack of effort.
"It only affects appearance.":It can also cause pain, fatigue, and reduced mobility.
The Impact of Stigma
Stigma can be one of the hardest parts of living with lipoedema. People report feeling like their concerns are dismissed or they are being judged, which can lead to avoiding care, low confidence, and increased stress.
For people living with diabetes, who may already have experienced stigma, this can add another layer of complexity.
Everyone deserves respect, understanding, and personalised care.
Lipoedema and Diabetes
Lipoedema and diabetes are different conditions, but they can exist together. Managing your diabetes remains very important.
While lipoedema fat is harder to change, good blood glucose management can support:
- Energy levels
- Inflammation
- Long-term health
What Can You Do to Support Your Health?
There is currently no cure for lipoedema. While liposuction may be an option for some people following specialist assessment, care is usually focused on supporting symptoms, movement, and overall wellbeing.
Stay active in a way that suits you
Regular movement can help you feel better and support your joints. Walking, swimming, and cycling are great options. The focus is on movement, not punishment.
Eat for overall health
Balanced, regular meals support your body and your blood glucose levels. Some people may benefit from dietary approaches that support inflammation and energy levels.
An Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) can help you understand what works best for your body and support both lipoedema and diabetes management.
Consider compression
Compression garments can help reduce heaviness, swelling, and discomfort, making daily movement easier.
Support your lymphatic system
Simple strategies such as gentle movement, staying hydrated, and lymphatic drainage can help. You can learn more or find a qualified practitioner through the Australasian Lymphology Association.
Build the right support team
A team approach works best. This may include your GP, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, a physiotherapist, and a dietitian.
How an Accredited Exercise Physiologist Can Help
An Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) is trained to support people with chronic conditions like lipoedema and diabetes.
They can help you:
- Improve strength, mobility, and function
- Reduce pain and heaviness
- Build a safe and personalised exercise plan
- Feel more confident with movement
Exercise is not about "fixing" lipoedema, it's about helping you feel better and move better.
When to Speak to Your GP
If you think you may have lipoedema, speaking to your GP is a good first step. A checklist from Lipoedema Australia can help guide this conversation.
A Kind Reminder
Living with lipoedema is not your fault.
With the right support, you can improve how your body feels, stay active, and manage your health well.
The goal is not perfection, it's feeling better, moving well, and living your life.
Where to Find More Support
For trusted information and support, visit Lipoedema Australia: https://www.lipoedema.org.au/
If you're looking for support managing lipoedema alongside diabetes, our team at Exercise for Rehabilitation & Health is here to help.
Our Accredited Exercise Physiologists provide personalised, evidence-based care to help you move with confidence, improve strength and function, and better manage your overall health.