LIPOEDEMA and DEEP OSCILLATION®: Patient Review After 10 Years of Using a PhysioPod®
A positive experience of a patient who has been utilising their PhysioPod DEEP OSCILLATION® device regularly since 2016 in conservative symptom reduction and in pre and post surgery care of Lipoedema
I have been using my physiopod since about 2016. It is easy and straightforward to use, I can do my abdomen, lower arms and thighs while my husband does the tops of my arms and calves.I get a lot of back pain, so my husband will use it to help with that as well and it really helps to relax the muscles. My husband has a pacemaker, which is a contraindication for deep oscillation, so we use the oscillation heads instead and these work really well.
I find regular use of the physiopod helps to soften fibrotic areas, which in turn, eases some of the pain. I use it about 3-4 times per week, but can do more if I feel it’s needed. It is quick and easy to get started, and programs run from between 20-30 mins, so it's easy to fit into anyone’s schedule. My MLD therapist also uses a physiopod, and I feel this definitely enhances the MLD, and she is able to reduce any fibrosis quickly.
It is light and portable so I am able to take it with us when holidaying, it charges quickly and the battery lasts for ages. I’m considering more surgery, so will definitely be using my physiopod before, to ensure the Lipodema fat is as soft as possible, then after surgery to reduce swelling and fibrosis. Buying the physiopod was a good investment, and it is still working perfectly after nearly 10 years of regular use.
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About DEEP OSCILLATION® and Lipoedema
For over 15 years, PhysioPod® UK has successfully supplied DEEP OSCILLATION® personal devices to those living with lipoedema and lymphoedema and to healthcare professionals in many fields of application, as is demonstrated in the PhysioPod Therapist Map. During this time, PhysioPod® UK has collected patient and therapist feedback, which has proved to be very helpful for those considering purchasing or hiring. Read more
PHYSIOPOD® LIPOEDEMA INFORMATION PAGE
What is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a disease of connective and adipose tissue, linked to an overactive gene pathway. Lipoedema tissue is seen on the lower abdomen, hips, buttocks, legs, and sometimes arms, but not on the head, trunk, hands, or feet. Lipoedema is rare in men and often runs in families. Lipoedema can have a negative impact on one's quality of life, both physically and psychologically.
Changes in the body during puberty, childbirth, fertility therapy, menopause, stress linked with lifestyle changes, or modifying tissue structure following surgery or trauma can all cause it to appear or worsen. The ankles or wrists can have a 'cuffing' or 'bracelet' effect. Cankles' is a term regularly used to describe a lack of distinction between the calves and ankles. Areas affected may feel paler, cooler, and softer than typical body fat. After physical exercise or in hot conditions, leg oedema develops in the afternoon and evening. The legs remain swollen even after elevation. Skin folds on the upper leg and knee can be present.
Pain (though not always present) is described as a 'burning sensation', cramping, heaviness, oppression, pressing, prickling sensation, pulling, sensitivity, sharpness, stinging, and tenderness to the touch. Individuals are easily fatigued and weary. Bruises appear for no apparent reason. The skin is dimpled, bumpy, or uneven and swollen and as opposed to cellulite, which is also dimpled, bumpy, or uneven but not swollen.
Fatty deposits on the inner and outer surfaces of the knees and thighs can occur. Fatty nodules or scarring may form in subcutaneous tissues. Spider and varicose veins are common. Hip and knee joint issues can occur. Changes in leg shape, such as 'heavy legs' or flat feet, might make walking more difficult. Hypermobile joints (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) are a common occurrence.
Lipoedema tissue is impervious to diet, exercise, and bariatric surgery. Shopping for clothes and footwear, particularly boots is challenging. Physical activity and exercise can be difficult, and limited mobility can cause anxiety and social isolation. Self-esteem and self-worth are affected, and a lack of either can lead to poor mental health. Lipoedema is usually associated with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders (anorexia and binge eating).
Lipoedema is distinct from obesity and lymphoedema, yet the three can coexist. Lipoedema is frequently misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphoedema, delaying crucial treatment. Early detection and referral for therapy are crucial. Lipoedema causes distortions in BMI measurements.
Lipoedema is poorly identified, misunderstood and misdiagnosed, causing many women to struggle to obtain an accurate diagnosis and access to specialist NHS services. Many women only learn they have the illness after looking online and contacting the incredible support groups doing a wonderful job all over the world.
