Compression therapy for lipedema

Compression therapy means wearing compression garments designed and applied to fit your limb's size and shape. In contrast to lymphedema, a pure lipedema does not include fluid in the tissue. The buildup of fatty tissue is known to cause pain and discomfort. Therefore, compression therapy for lipedema has a different purpose.

Compression therapy for lipedema helps to:

• Improve your signs and symptoms, especially pain and discomfort;
• Support the tissue of your limbs; and
• Improve your mobility because skin flaps don't rub against each other.

It's important to understand that compression therapy will not change the size and shape of your limb, but it can ease your pain and discomfort.

The mechanism by which compression therapy improves pain and discomfort is not completely understood. However, compression therapy is thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the fatty tissue, improve blood circulation, and reduce oxidative stress. Therefore, compression therapy probably reduces the pain caused by inflammatory processes and a lack of oxygen in your fatty tissue.

Compression therapy combined with exercise is even more effective, as exercise has an anti-inflammatory effect as well. Especially physical activity in water, like swimming or water aerobic, shows an improvement of lipedema symptoms.

Flat-knit compression garments are often recommended for lipedema because they are more comfortable and tend to be more effective. They are also better suited to accommodate significant changes in limb size, which is a common feature of lipedema. Depending on the extent of your lipedema, you can choose from various types of compression garments, such as stockings, leggings, or pants. Your individual condition determines what kind of garment and which compression class are required.

Compression bandages are usually not used in pure lipedema patients. However, depending on the severity of your symptoms or accompanying lymphedema, other compression garments or even bandages might be beneficial.

You can learn more about the different types of compression here.

In general, compression therapy for lipedema is very safe and has been used for decades. With some exceptions, it can be used for all patients. Your Healthcare Professional will be aware of any exceptions.

There are a few warning signs that point to inappropriate application of your compression garments or bandages. These are:

• Pain or discomfort
• Changes in the color
• Tingling or numbness of your toes and fingers

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, move your limb or remove the garment if it does not help. When the symptoms do not resolve after a while, you should completely remove the compression garment and contact your Healthcare Professional.

Compression therapy also stresses your skin, and it is important to maintain good skin care.