What is lipedema?

Lipedema is abnormal accumulation of fat. This is usually observed in the legs but can also occur in the arms or trunk. This condition primarily affects women and is most notable throughout different hormonals shifts within the lifespan (puberty, pregnancy and menopause). Lipedema does not respond to diet, exercise, diuretics or bariatric surgery.

Common symptoms of lipedema include: easy bruising, tenderness or pain in the affected areas, nodular presence under the skin, fatigue, hypermobility, heaviness of the affected areas, feet and hands are typically spared (appears as a “cuff).

Lipedema can co-occur with conditions that present with secondary lymphedema; this condition is then called lipo-lymphedema.

There is no testing, such as imaging or lab values, that can provide diagnosis of lipedema at this time. Lipedema is often misdiagnosed or under diagnosed. It is diagnosed by an in-depth history and assessment.

gold standard treatment for lipedema

Ideal lipedema treatment should consistent of several items to best optimize treatment outcomes. This includes:

  • appropriate compression

  • enhancing lymphatic flow

  • inflammation management

  • reducing fibrosis

what we do for you

At Empower Health we guide you towards the most appropriate garment selection for compression garments, whether this is a ready-to-wear garment or a customized garment. This is pertinent for prevention of increased abnormal fat deposits.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) will be used to optimize lymphatic flow and assist with reducing fibrosis.

An intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) pump is a useful tool that many people with lipedema utilize to prevent fat deposits, improve lymphatic flow and reduce fibrosis. Empower Health works closely with a reputable company called Tactile Medical that specializes in medical-grade pumps. A rep from Tactile Medical will come to the clinic to perform a demonstration of the pump with you on your limbs and assist with setting you up with a pump for home use. Pumps can be used 1 to 2 times per day and used daily.