Lipedema is a chronic condition involving a disproportionate buildup of fatty tissue, most commonly in the legs, hips, thighs, or arms. The condition typically affects both sides of the body and may cause pain, tenderness, heaviness, swelling, and easy bruising. Unlike ordinary weight gain, tissue affected by lipedema can be difficult to reduce through diet and exercise alone.

Living with lipedema can make walking, exercising, working, and completing everyday activities more uncomfortable. Symptoms and their severity vary, so treatment should be based on a careful evaluation of your movement, swelling, discomfort, strength, and individual needs.

Physical therapy cannot eliminate lipedema, but it can play an important role in managing its symptoms. Treatment may include gentle manual techniques, therapeutic exercise, mobility and strengthening activities, compression education, and personalized self-management strategies. Our goal is to help reduce discomfort, support healthy movement, and make everyday activities feel more manageable.