06/15/2026
Have you tried losing weight but your legs (or arms) just won’t budge?
Maybe you’ve heard “eat less and move more.” So, you did just that – you reduced the calories. You did different styles of diets. You’ve tried all the forms of physical exercise. Yet, nothing worked.
It may not be your fault. It could be lipedema.
Lipedema is a chronic medical condition where adipose tissue is accumulated. The underlying cause of lipedema is not well understood but there appears to be a hormonal and genetic component to it. Women who are experiencing hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause) may notice the beginnings or worsening of the condition.
Typical signs of lipedema:
·buildup of fat in both legs (sometimes both arms as well)
·swelling
·tenderness or pain (can be just upon palpation, intermittent or constant)
·heaviness (may get worse as the day goes on)
·fatigue (may get worse as the day goes on)
·bruises easily
·nodular texture under the skin (can range in size from rice to walnuts)
·the adipose tissue spares the hands and feet, leaving what appears to be a “cuff” at either the ankle or wrist
This condition can fly under the radar unfortunately because it can be mistaken for obesity.
Conservative treatment methods for lipedema include manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments and compression pumps – all of which are provided at Empower Health.
Rather than wonder, get clarification. Visit our website at www.empowerhealth-ks.com or call785-269-1788 to request an appointment.