Integrative Lipedema Treatments
                     Integrative Lipedema 
Treatments
www.lymphatictherapyservices.com
Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory disease of complex causes, of 
which we understand little about. Lipedema occurs almost exclusively 
in females and is characterized by symmetrical flabby swelling of the 
legs. There is an abnormal accumulation of fatty deposits starting in 
the hip region and ending at the ankles. The arms and abdomen can 
also be affected. Lipedema treatment is still fairly misunderstood, and 
health professionals and physicians may dismiss the patient and tell 
them to lose weight.
They are “blamed” for being overweight, told they eat too much or 
are “cheating” on their prescribed diets. There is a lack of sympathy 
and understanding and this can cause anxiety, frustration and a 
feeling of helplessness.
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This condition is a genetic abnormality and the 
obesity is not the patient’s fault.
The treatment for the Lipedema patient is complex. Individuals with a 
diagnosis of lipedema need to have both physical and psychological 
support, to help them overcome the mental anguish which 
accompanies the condition. Clinicians should also provide nutritional 
guidance to decongest and to avoid additional weight gain.
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Why do I 
swell ?
A condition that interferes with the flow of lymph will result in edema.
Excess fatty tissue will impact upon the lymphatics and disturb the 
flow
Fat cells can contain toxic material such as dioxins, mercury, and 
other heavy metals which contribute to the inflammation
Inactivity further exacerbates the condition – reduced pumping on 
calf and increasing swelling.
Lymph fluid is absorbed from the initial lymphatic vessels in the 
tissue, enters the lymphatic system and is pumped upwards.
Constriction of the lymphatic vessels by an increased fat deposit 
restricts absorption
The return flow of the lymphatic vessels is blocked
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Integrative Treatment for 
Lipedema
Manual lymph drainage (MLD) A form of massage that uses gentle, 
rhythmic pumping movements to stimulate the flow of lymph around 
blocked areas to healthy vessels, where it can drain into the venous 
system. This helps relieve pain and prevent fibrosis.
Compression– The use of stretch bandages or custom-fitted panty 
hose, panties, and/or spandex shorts to increase tissue pressure in 
the edematous legs, to decrease the re-accumulation of fluid and 
effect a significant reduction in adipose tissue
Exercise- Helps reduce fluid buildup, increase mobility, and maintain 
or improve function. Rebounding, whole body vibration, walking, yoga 
and swimming should be included.
Deep Breathing helps to move lymph, by stimulating the vessels in 
the abdomen
Anti-inflammatory Diet – concentrate on nuts and seeds and foods 
high in omega 3 fatty acids. 5
The foods you eat play an important role in how you feel. Junk, 
processed and fast foods contain too much sugar, salt and white flour 
which, can aggravate inflammation.
Avoid red meat, as it contains arachidonic acid, which in excess will 
make your inflammation worse.
Follow a Mediterranean diet as an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern. 
This diet consists of fruits and vegetables, nuts, olive oil, beans, 
legumes and fish, is moderate in alcohol and eliminates processed 
meat, refined carbohydrates and whole-fat dairy products.
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Fish oils generally decrease several markers of inflammation. Omega 
3 fatty acids are found in high levels in fatty fish, such as mackerel, 
lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, wild salmon and halibut. 
Dietary sources of the omega 3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid include 
flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, 
soybeans and some dark green leafy vegetables. Omega 3 fatty acids 
reduce the risk of obesity
Medium chain fatty 
acids
Incorporating medium fatty acids (MCT) in the diet can help patients with 
lipedema. They are easily absorbed and unlike other fats, which are 
stored in the adipose tissue, MCT’s put little strain on the digestive 
system, provide a feeling of satiety and give a quick source of energy. 
Animal and human studies have shown that the fast rate of oxidation of 
MCFA leads to greater energy expenditure (EE), resulting in less body 
weight gain and decreased size of fat depots after several months of 
consumption. Pure virgin cold, pressed coconut oil and Caprylic acid are 7
medium fatty acids
Conclusi
on
Patients should continue on this multifaceted program to prevent the 
condition from getting worse, as the disease can progress to lipedema 
if left completely untreated. It is important to seek out a qualified and 
caring therapist to support and encourage. 
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Lymphatic Therapy Services
(858) 457-0191
[email protected]
www.lymphatictherapyservices.com/
 3282 Governor Drive, San Diego, California 92122, USA
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