A Wholistic Approach to Lipedema Massage

What is Lipedema

Lipedema is a chronic medical condition with individuals suffering from an abnormal buildup of fat in the legs and sometimes the arms. It is a common disorder but is often not recognized or identified. Lipedema can cause a painful accumulation of fat cells accompanied by swelling and easy bruising.

Also called lipoedema, it is a condition where excess fat accumulates primarily in the lower part of the body, affecting the legs and most often the buttocks, thighs and calves. It can also occur in the upper body but does not affect the hands or feet. Fat can feel painful, bruises easily, and have an irregular texture like rice or peas beneath the surface of the skin.

The body is disproportionate where the lower half is much larger than the upper half but fat accumulation is symmetrical matching one side of the body to the other. 

Who is Affected?

Individuals assigned female at birth are primarily affected with Lipedema. There are a few cases of individuals assigned male at birth being affected, but it is quite rare. It can start or worsen during hormonal changes such as puberty or pregnancy. 

It is unknown what causes the condition but is thought to be congenital or hormonal.  

What is the Difference between Lymphedema and Lipedema

Both are swelling conditions. Lymphedema is swelling caused by a disruption to the lymphatic system whereas Lipedema is a pathology involving fat cells.  

These are two different conditions but advanced lipedema can sometimes lead to accompanying lymphedema. We treat both conditions in our clinic to reduce swelling and pain.

Lipedema Massage Treatment

For lipedema patients, fat accumulation can be accompanied by swelling and responds well to Manual Lymphatic Drainage and the regular use of compression garments. With considerable fat accumulation, fluid can begin to accumulate in the tissue which can increase the swelling and lead to further complications, including lymphedema. Massage treatment and compression can help reduce pain and swelling with both of these conditions.

For those patients opting for surgical intervention to treat their lipedema, Manual Lymphatic Drainage before and after surgery can be extremely helpful in pre-operative preparation and post-operative recovery.  

Working with Lipedema Patients

Lipedema can be quite debilitating causing pain, fatigue and also psychological effects. Understanding this condition and how it affects the individual as a whole is a focus for our massage therapist. Specializing in this area provides a solid foundation as each individual is unique and each treatment plan is tailored to the client. We use a wholistic approach to treat clients and increase their quality of life.

If you’re ready to start lipedema massage therapy treatment, we work out of a clinic in SW Calgary. Book online or contact us to find out more information about lipedema massage.