The cause of lipedema is still unknown, and it is not possible to avoid the onset of lipedema. However, a holistic approach can have a positive impact on the course of your disease.
Early diagnosis
Early diagnosis of lipedema is crucial for effective treatment, although many patients struggle without a correct diagnosis for a long time as the diagnosis is not straightforward. But awareness of the disease among Healthcare Professionals is increasing, leading to more accurate and timely diagnoses.
Holistic treatment
Upon diagnosis, a holistic treatment plan is developed in consultation with your Healthcare Professional, incorporating physical and psychological therapies as needed.
The main elements of treating lipedema are:
- Compression therapy
- Physio/movement therapy: improving mobility and exercise
- Psychological support
- Weight management
- Surgical procedures under certain circumstances (e.g. liposuction)
- Self-management
"Lipedema is not a progressive disease."
Dr. Tobias Bertsch, Senior Physician at Földi-Klinik
Although lipedema is fundamentally not a progressive disease, it could progress due to further increase in your weight. Therefore, managing your weight is an integral part of treating lipedema.
The goal of weight management with lipedema is to improve your overall well-being and fitness, rather than focusing on losing weight with diets. Avoid diets that aim for short-term weight loss, as they often fail and can result in gaining more weight, known as the "yo-yo effect." Instead, focus on balanced nutrition and regular exercise to achieve a stable and healthy weight.