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Lipedema is often confused with lymphedema. Lipedema is frequently unrecognized and often underdiagnosed. It is a condition where pathological changes in the cellular function of adipose (fat) cells lead to fatty tissue edema, thickened collagen fibers, venous stasis, and lymphostasis.
Lipedema patients will often experience pain in the lipedemic region. A significant difference between lipedema and general fat storage is that regardless of an individual’s weight loss effort there will be no change in the volume of the lipedemic region, even with minimal food intake.
Lipedema occurs more frequently in women and tends to be localized to areas such as the thigh, buttocks, lower abdomen, and sometimes the arms, while hands and feet are unaffected and remain slim. Lipedemic regions are at risk for cellulitis, fungal, and bacterial infections.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) are indicated to treat lipedema. Compression bandaging or garments are often difficult for individuals to tolerate due to the area being painful, however MLD, because of its gentle nature is often effective for reducing both the volume of the edema and the pain associated with the lipedema. MLD/CDT do not eliminate the extra adipose tissue.
Contra-indications are conditions or factors that serve as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment. Due to the effectiveness of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) in accelerating lymph flow there are a number of health concerns that do not allow individuals to receive MLD. If you are experiencing any of the following situations please discuss these with a therapist prior to receiving any treatment:
For more information on lipedema and efforts here in Alberta, visit Lipedema Alberta’s website
Our In Step massage center has certified massage therapists who can provide Lipedema Treatment for Massage therapy in Edmonton. Book an appointment today
10667 113 St NW, Edmonton,
AB T5H 3H6
Mon – Fri: 8 am – 8 pm
Sat: 8 am – 4 pm
