Lipedema support for members

Symptoms may differ depending on the affected body area and disease stage. But people commonly experience:

If your doctor suspects lipedema, they’ll likely ask you about your medical history. Then they’ll learn more about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. For example, they might want to find out if fat deposits in your body are painful (regular body fat doesn’t cause pain). They’ll also check for other signs of lipedema, like size differences between your feet and legs.

There isn’t one specific test doctors use to diagnose lipedema. But they may order testing to screen out other conditions. These tests might include imaging tests to look at your bones, muscles and other tissues.

If you’re diagnosed with lipedema, treatments are available. These treatments can help you feel better, reduce pain and inflammation, and get you the support you need. Your care team will work with you to determine what’s best. Our specialist support services can also assist.

At-home treatments for lipedema can be effective. Working with your doctor, you can:

• Adopt an anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy diet – Certain foods can cause body inflammation and swelling. Eating foods that are anti-inflammatory can help prevent both. And while dieting doesn’t get rid of fat caused by lipedema, adopting a heart-healthy diet can help slow disease progression and reduce the risk of complications.
• Regularly care for your skin – This includes moisturizing your skin daily, keeping your skin dry (especially between any skin folds) and watching for infections. You can work with your doctor or care team to find which routines and products work best for you.
• Start or continue low- to moderate-intensity exercise – Physical activity can help reduce swelling and stress on your joints. It can also boost your mobility. Before you start any new workout regimen, talk with your doctor for advice.
• Wear compression garments – Many people diagnosed with lipedema wear compression garments, like socks. Compression garments can’t stop lipedema. But they can help manage it by keeping down swelling and inflammation.
• Take over-the-counter medicines or supplements – Certain medicines and supplements can help with pain, inflammation and other lipedema issues. But make sure to talk with your doctor before taking anything new.

Other clinical treatments your doctor may suggest include:

• Physical therapy – A physical therapist can work with you on exercises that help your joints, posture, breathing and more. These exercises can be effective in managing pain and other symptoms.
• Lymphatic drainage massage – Also known as manual lymphatic drainage, you or a specialist will massage certain areas of your body to help reduce swelling. This is helpful in clearing your lymphatic pathways and slowing symptom progression.
• Decongestive therapy – This therapy involves a combination of exercise, lymphatic drainage, compression and skin care. These techniques work together to help with symptoms and prevent their progression.
• Surgery – Surgical treatments, like liposuction, may also help with lipedema. But they’re not right for everyone. Talk with your doctor to determine if surgery might be an option for you. Be aware that certain services may require prior authorization as part of HealthPartners coverage criteria.

With lipedema, it’s important to prioritize both your physical and mental health. Dealing with the disease can feel isolating and frustrating, which can affect your mood and relationships. Reaching out to mental health experts and support groups who understand lipedema can be beneficial. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or care team for advice. Our specialist support services can also assist.