Lipoedema

Understanding Lipoedema: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Lipoedema (also spelled lipedema in the U.S.) is a painful, chronic fat distribution disorder that primarily affects women. It leads to the symmetrical buildup of adipose (fat) tissue, especially in the hips, thighs, legs, arms, and buttocks—while sparing the hands and feet. Despite being common, it is often misdiagnosed as obesity or general weight gain. At Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury, we specialise in lipoedema treatment and support.

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How to Identify If You Have Lipoedema

Lipoedema may be the cause if you experience:

• Disproportionately large legs or upper arms

• Excess fat in your thighs, hips, or buttocks

• Fat pads or nodules around your knees or thighs

• Legs that bruise easily and feel painful to touch

• Ankle cuffs, saddle bags, or fat lobules

• Cold, soft, or “wobbly” skin on the legs

• Little to no response to diet or exercise

Many individuals with lipoedema are told they are simply overweight. However, lipoedema is a distinct medical condition, and early diagnosis is key to slowing its progression.

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Common Symptoms of Lipoedema

• Symmetrical swelling in legs (and sometimes arms)

• A small waist compared to enlarged hips and thighs

• Feet and hands unaffected (bracelet/anklet effect)

• Painful, heavy limbs and easy bruising

• Cellulite-like or mattress-textured skin

• Symptoms worsen in hot weather or during hormonal changes

• Cold skin on the legs and buttocks

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Lipoedema Treatment Options at Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury

Our certified physiotherapist, Pia, is trained in lymphoedema and lipoedema treatment. Depending on your condition, she may recommend one or a combination of the following:

1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a gentle, hands-on massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. Pia is Dr. Vodder-trained in MLD, which uses light touch to prevent aggravating the tenderness in lipoedema-affected tissues.

2. Compression Therapy

Scientifically designed compression garments such as Bioflect can reduce pain, aching, and swelling. Pia will help you select the correct type and size for your needs.

3. Exercise and Movement

Low-impact activities like swimming, Pilates, aqua aerobics, and lymphatic yoga help improve circulation and mobility. At Aspire, we also offer PERC exercise classes that are suitable for those with lipoedema.

4. Pneumatic Compression Pumps

Devices like the Lymphapress Optimal with bilateral pants are effective in fluid movement and tissue stretching. While this device is not currently available in Bunbury, Pia can guide you to clinics like Mandurah Oedema Clinic for rental or trial.

5. Surgical Interventions

Liposuction may be considered when other options don’t provide enough relief. It must be done by specialists familiar with lipoedema, using tumescent or water-assisted techniques to protect the lymphatic system. Other supportive treatments may include vein therapy or bariatric surgery, especially if vascular insufficiency coexists with lipoedema.

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Take the First Step Toward Lipoedema Relief

Early diagnosis and management of lipoedema can significantly improve your comfort and mobility. Book a consultation at Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury today and let our team help you regain control of your health.

Understanding Lipoedema: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Lipoedema (also spelled lipedema in the U.S.) is a painful, chronic fat distribution disorder that primarily affects women. It leads to the symmetrical buildup of adipose (fat) tissue, especially in the hips, thighs, legs, arms, and buttocks—while sparing the hands and feet. Despite being common, it is often misdiagnosed as obesity or general weight gain. At Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury, we specialise in lipoedema treatment and support.

---

How to Identify If You Have Lipoedema

Lipoedema may be the cause if you experience:

• Disproportionately large legs or upper arms

• Excess fat in your thighs, hips, or buttocks

• Fat pads or nodules around your knees or thighs

• Legs that bruise easily and feel painful to touch

• Ankle cuffs, saddle bags, or fat lobules

• Cold, soft, or “wobbly” skin on the legs

• Little to no response to diet or exercise

Many individuals with lipoedema are told they are simply overweight. However, lipoedema is a distinct medical condition, and early diagnosis is key to slowing its progression.

---

Common Symptoms of Lipoedema

• Symmetrical swelling in legs (and sometimes arms)

• A small waist compared to enlarged hips and thighs

• Feet and hands unaffected (bracelet/anklet effect)

• Painful, heavy limbs and easy bruising

• Cellulite-like or mattress-textured skin

• Symptoms worsen in hot weather or during hormonal changes

• Cold skin on the legs and buttocks

---

Lipoedema Treatment Options at Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury

Our certified physiotherapist, Pia, is trained in lymphoedema and lipoedema treatment. Depending on your condition, she may recommend one or a combination of the following:

1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a gentle, hands-on massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. Pia is Dr. Vodder-trained in MLD, which uses light touch to prevent aggravating the tenderness in lipoedema-affected tissues.

2. Compression Therapy

Scientifically designed compression garments such as Bioflect can reduce pain, aching, and swelling. Pia will help you select the correct type and size for your needs.

3. Exercise and Movement

Low-impact activities like swimming, Pilates, aqua aerobics, and lymphatic yoga help improve circulation and mobility. At Aspire, we also offer PERC exercise classes that are suitable for those with lipoedema.

4. Pneumatic Compression Pumps

Devices like the Lymphapress Optimal with bilateral pants are effective in fluid movement and tissue stretching. While this device is not currently available in Bunbury, Pia can guide you to clinics like Mandurah Oedema Clinic for rental or trial.

5. Surgical Interventions

Liposuction may be considered when other options don’t provide enough relief. It must be done by specialists familiar with lipoedema, using tumescent or water-assisted techniques to protect the lymphatic system. Other supportive treatments may include vein therapy or bariatric surgery, especially if vascular insufficiency coexists with lipoedema.

---

Take the First Step Toward Lipoedema Relief

Early diagnosis and management of lipoedema can significantly improve your comfort and mobility. Book a consultation at Aspire Physiotherapy Bunbury today and let our team help you regain control of your health.

Further information and resources

There are multiple online resources available for more information and help, for example:

• Lipoedema Australia
• Lipoedema Facebook group Australia
• Lipoedema Facebook group WA
• The Lipedema foundation
• The Lipedema Project
• LE&RN – Lymphatic Education and Research Network
• Lipoedema Surgical Solutions
• Fat Disorders Resource Society