Lipoedema Management
The condition they call "The Disease They Call Fat" โ but itโs not what you think.
Lipoedema is a chronic, progressive condition that changes how fat is distributed in the body, most often affecting the legs, buttocks, and arms while sparing the hands and feet. Unlike general weight gain, lipoedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise, and its symmetrical appearance often leads to misunderstanding.
The condition occurs almost exclusively in women and is frequently misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphoedema, leaving many people feeling confused, dismissed, or without answers. Itโs estimated to affect around one in nine women, yet awareness and understanding remain limited.
Understanding how to manage lipoedema can make a world of difference. With the right support and consistent care, symptoms can be eased, pain reduced, and mobility maintained โ helping you feel more comfortable and in control of your health.
Could This Be You?
- Struggling to lose weight from your lower body despite a healthy diet and regular exercise?
- Experiencing heavy, tender legs that bruise easily?
- Noticing a spongy or nodular texture under the skin?
- Have family members with a similar leg shape?
- Did symptoms begin around puberty, during pregnancy, or at menopause?
If this sounds familiar, you may be living with undiagnosed lipoedema โ a condition that can be managed with the right care and support.
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What Causes Lipoedema?
The exact cause of lipoedema is still unknown, but itโs believed to be influenced by hormonal changes and genetic factors. Many people report a family history of similar body shape or symptoms.
Lipoedema often develops or worsens during times of significant hormonal change, such as:
Puberty
Pregnancy
Menopause
After gynaecological surgery
How Is It Managed?
Thereโs currently no cure, but the right care can greatly reduce symptoms, improve comfort, and support long-term wellbeing. A personalised management plan may include:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) โ gentle therapy to reduce pain, heaviness, and tissue congestion
- Medical-grade compression garments โ to support circulation, shape, and comfort
- Compression bandaging (when appropriate) โ for more intensive or short-term management
- Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (SIPC) โ to enhance lymphatic flow and reduce fluid build-up
- Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) โ gentle light therapy that can help reduce inflammation, soften fibrotic tissue, and support lymphatic flow
- Deep Oscillation Therapy (DOT) โ to help soften fibrotic tissue and improve mobility
- Skin care and inflammation control โ maintaining skin integrity and preventing complications
- Education and activity modification โ learning how to adapt movement, exercise, and daily routines safely
- Emotional support and self-care strategies โ addressing the emotional impact and promoting body confidence
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Together, these therapies aim to reduce pain and swelling, protect skin health, and help you stay active, comfortable, and confident in daily life.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Lymphoedema Therapy, Training & Education acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
