Lipedema is a chronic disease of adipose tissue. The peculiarity of this disease is that the fat that accumulates is not like normal, so it cannot be eliminated with diet and / or exercise.
What are the criteria for diagnosing Lipedema?
The diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and must be made by a systematic physical examination. Differential diagnoses include: obesity and lymphedema. Other causes of lower leg edema should be considered (chronic venous insufficiency, idiopathic cyclic edema, edema due to internal disease, medications, and orthostatic edema). It is difficult to distinguish between mild forms of lipedema and "normal" variations in fat. The use of a functional approach that focuses on the limitations of activities of daily living is recommended.
Currently, there is no definitive test for lipedema. Diagnosis is based on medical history and manual inspection and palpation of fat. Diagnostic criteria include the following:
- Almost exclusive occurrence in women.
- Bilateral and symmetrical manifestation with minimal involvement of the feet.
- Minimal pitting edema, the Kaposi-Stemmer sign is negative.
- Pain, sensitivity to pressure.
- Increased vascular fragility; bruising easily.
- Persistent enlargement after limb elevation or weight loss.
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What are the stages of Lipedema?
- Stage I. The skin is smooth and flat.
- Stage II. The skin has indentations. Lipomas can develop.
- Stage III. Some hardened connective tissue / fibrosclerosis, protruding lumps of skin and fat.
- Lipolymphedema. It can occur at any stage, but is more likely in advanced stages. Fibrosclerosis, possible deformation of the extremities due to accumulation of lymphatic fluid, constantly present swelling, larger masses of skin and fat that protrude.
What treatments are recommended for Lipedema?
There is no cure for lipedema. Treatment consists of addressing symptoms, controlling pain, or removing lipemic fat.
- Low carb diets whether they are anti-inflammatory or ketogenic.
- Low-impact activities to promote healthy lymphatic pumping, especially aquatic activities.
- Manual lymphatic drainage and / or complete decongestant therapy.
- Compression garments to control edema.
- Sequential pneumatic compression pumps.
- Physical therapy which may include: myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, graston technique, tuin to loosen fibrotic tissue causing pain.
- Aids for comfort and mobility necessary for activities of daily living.
- Excision of lipedema fat by liposuction Wal.
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El Dr. Daniel Rodríguez Morales de los Ríos In this video, you will find more information about the surgery to treat Lipedema.