Introduction
This leaflet provides information and advice about managing your Lipalgia Syndrome (Lipoedema) based on what we understand so far. However, we want to learn more about what people with Lipalgia Syndrome need to help them with this condition. We have started to assess and re-assess people with Lipalgia Syndrome using new detailed specifically designed documentation.
The term Lipalgia Syndrome better reflects the condition as it means ‘painful fat’, whereas Lipoedema suggests there is oedema (fluid) present, when often there is not. For the next few years, we will be using both terms Lipalgia Syndrome and Lipoedema but it is important to remember that it is the same condition.
What is Lipalgia Syndrome (Lipoedema)?
Lipalgia Syndrome is a build-up of fatty (adipose/lipid) tissue that affects areas below the waist (i.e. buttocks, hips and thighs), extending down both legs equally to the ankles, but never in the feet. The shape of the legs can create a bracelet appearance at the ankle, and sometimes a fatty lump below the knee on the inner shin. The legs are often described as being painful, tender or achy, and the fatty tissue can give the impression that the legs are out of proportion with the rest of the body.
There is no evidence Lipalgia Syndrome affects the stomach. Fatty tissue around the abdomen is usually due to obesity. Lipalgia Syndrome can occasionally affect the arms, but again this is more often linked to obesity being present as well. There may be other symptoms that are related to Lipalgia Syndrome and more research is needed to confirm these.