Lipoedema is believed to have a genetic link and is influenced by hormonal changes. While its progression varies, it can worsen over time or remain relatively stable. It is often associated with other conditions such as venous or lymphatic insufficiency, joint issues, and obesity.

Symptoms vary between individuals however may include:

• Symmetrical fat accumulation in the legs, buttocks, thighs and/or arms
• Smaller waist compared to affected areas
• ‘Cuffing’ at wrists or ankles (hands and feet usually unaffected)
• Lumpy, soft, or nodular fat with a dimpled texture
• Easy bruising, tenderness or sensitivity to touch
• Heaviness, discomfort, or aching in the limbs
• Coldness in the affected areas
• Swelling worsened by heat or prolonged standing
• Minimal improvement with diet or exercise
• Reduced hair growth on affected areas

Lipoedema requires a comprehensive, long-term management approach based on individual needs. Key strategies include:

• Psychosocial support and expectation management
• Patient education
• Healthy eating and weight maintenance
• Gentle physical activity to improve mobility
• Skin care and protection
• Pain management
• Compression therapy using custom-measured garments

Bioflect garments are not a substitute for prescribed compression however can complement them and are often prescribed as a step beforehand to assist the patient to become accustomed to compression. Benefits include:

• The Bioflect Pro Legging extends over the ankle to assist with swelling and cuffing common in lipoedema
• Cost-effective and can be worn during the day, at night, in bed or during physical activity, when heavier, rigid compression garments are usually removed
• Intelligent design stretches to be comfortable and effective over a broader range of body shapes and sizes
• Enhanced circulation and drainage
• Improved skin elasticity
• Support for pain relief and reduction in cellulite
• They assist with many of the symptoms as well as other conditions