Lipoedema Beyond the Legs: Recognising Lipodema Symptoms Across the Body

Lipoedema is often associated with disproportionate fat accumulation in the legs, but this chronic condition can affect other parts of the body as well. Recognising its broader impact is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

What Is Lipoedema?

Lipoedema (also commonly spelled lipodema) is a long-term condition characterised by an abnormal build-up of fat cells, primarily in the lower body. It almost exclusively affects women and is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphoedema. The condition typically manifests during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

Understanding what is lipodema is the first step towards early intervention. It is a progressive condition that greatly affects both physical and emotional well-being.

Beyond the Legs: Other Affected Areas

While the legs are most commonly affected, Lipodema can also impact:

• Arms: Approximately 48% of individuals with Lipodema report fat accumulation in the arms, often leading to a disproportionate appearance compared to the rest of the body.
• Buttocks and Hips: Fat deposits often extend to the buttocks and hips, contributing to the characteristic "pear-shaped" body.
• Upper Legs: The thighs are frequently involved, with fat accumulation causing discomfort and mobility issues.

A unique feature of lipodema symptoms is that hands and feet are usually unaffected, which helps differentiate it from other conditions like lymphoedema.

Recognising Lipodema Symptoms

The signs of lipodema are often misunderstood. Here are some of the common lipodema symptoms to watch for:

• Symmetrical Fat Distribution: Even accumulation of fat on both sides of the body, often in the legs and arms.
• Pain and Tenderness: Affected areas may be sensitive to touch and prone to bruising.
• Heaviness and Discomfort: Individuals often experience a feeling of heaviness in the limbs.
• Skin Changes: The skin over affected areas may appear dimpled or have a "pebbly" texture.

Many women go years without a proper diagnosis, particularly in the early lipodema stages when symptoms are subtle or confused with weight gain.

UK Statistics on Affected Body Parts

A comprehensive survey conducted by Lipoedema UK revealed that:

•  48% of respondents reported Lipodema in their arms.

•  98% had attempted weight loss, but only 5% found it effective in reducing fat in affected areas.

These statistics highlight the importance of recognizing Lipodema’s impact beyond the legs and how difficult it can be to manage across different Lipodema stages using traditional weight loss methods.

Understanding that Lipoedema can affect various parts of the body is vital for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. If you suspect you have Lipoedema, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment and explore management options such as compression therapy and specialised care.

Want to dive deeper into understanding Lipoedema? Download our free Lipoedema eBook to learn more.

 

References:

• NHS. (n.d.). Lipoedema. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Lipoedema/nhs.uk
• Lipoedema UK. (2014). Big Survey 2014 Research Report. Retrieved from https://Lipoedema.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/LATEST-LUK000-UK-Big-Survey16-Mar24-web.pdfLipoedema.co.uk
• Bupa UK. (n.d.). Lipoedema: Types, causes, diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/womens-health/LipoedemaBupa
• NHS Inform. (n.d.). Lipoedema. Retrieved from https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/womens-health/middle-years-around-25-to-50-years/long-term-conditions/Lipoedema/NHS Infor