Have You Heard of Lipoedema? A Misunderstood Condition That Deserves More Recognition

Have you ever heard of lipoedema? If not, you're not alone. This chronic, often  misunderstood condition affects thousands—mostly women—yet  remains underdiagnosed and frequently mistaken for obesity or lymphoedema. 

At first glance, it may look like someone is simply carrying more weight on their lower  half. But lipoedema is far more complex—and far more serious—than that. 

What is Lipoedema? 

Lipoedema is a long-term fat disorder that leads to an abnormal and painful build-up of  fat, most commonly in the legs, thighs, hips, and sometimes the arms. Unlike typical  weight gain, lipoedemic fat is resistant to diet and exercise, and the condition mainly  affects women, often triggered by hormonal shifts like puberty, pregnancy, or  menopause. 

One key giveaway? The upper body stays disproportionately slimmer while the lower  body becomes heavier and more painful over time. 

Living with Lipoedema 

People with lipoedema often experience: 

• Heaviness, aching, or pain in their legs 

• Fatigue and restricted mobility 

• Skin changes, including cool, dimpled or nodular texture 

• Extreme sensitivity and easy bruising in affected areas 

• Frustration and emotional distress from being misdiagnosed 

  
  

Many struggle for years without answers, being told to “just lose weight” even  though dieting doesn’t reduce the lipoedemic fat. This constant misdiagnosis can lead  to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression—compounding the physical symptoms. 

How to Recognise Lipoedema 

Here are some of the tell-tale signs of lipoedema: 

• Symptoms often start at puberty, during/after pregnancy, or menopause - Affects both legs symmetrically 

• Fat pads develop around knees, hips, and thighs

• The upper body stays relatively slim 

• Feet and hands remain unaffected, though a “cuffing” effect can appear around  ankles or wrists 

• The fat is painful, bruises easily, and doesn’t respond to dieting - In later stages, the condition can lead to joint issues, mobility problems, and  even secondary lymphoedema 

Can Lipoedema Be Treated? 

While there’s no cure yet, there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and  improve quality of life: 

Conservative Options: 

• Compression therapy 

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) 

• Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) 

• Skincare routines 

• Targeted exercise 

These approaches may reduce pain, heaviness, and swelling, but they won’t remove the  abnormal fat tissue. 

Surgical Options: 

Non-cosmetic liposuction has shown promising results, with many patients  reporting improved mobility, reduced pain, and better mental wellbeing. However, in the  UK, the NICE guidelines currently restrict this to research settings, pending the results  of the upcoming LIPLEG study (expected in 2025-26). 

Why Diagnosis Matters 

Many people with lipoedema spend years—sometimes decades—without a proper  diagnosis. The condition is often mistaken for obesity, leading to feelings of shame,  stigma, confusion, and dismissal by healthcare professionals. But with early  recognition, patients can access support that can transform their lives. 

If you think you might have lipoedema, speak to your GP or practice nurse. Be prepared  to explain why you suspect it. They may refer you to a specialist service for further  assessment.

Where to Get Support 

Lipoedema UK is the UK’s leading charity working to improve awareness, diagnosis,  treatment access, and patient support. They offer a wealth of resources, including  guidance on symptoms, management options, and how to talk to your GP. 

Become a member of Lipoedema UK to receive updates, support, and access to a  community that understands what you're going through. 

 Join Lipoedema UK 

You can also read more on NHS pages: 

 NHS – Lipoedema Overview 

Let’s Break the Silence 

Lipoedema is real, painful, and life-altering—but with the right support and awareness,  it doesn’t have to remain invisible. Whether you’re living with it, think you might have it,  or just want to support others, spreading the word is one of the most powerful things we  can do. June is Lipoedema Awareness month so start spreading the word now. 

You’re not alone—and you deserve to be heard.