Lipoedema (Lipedema)

PhysioPod® UK has established this page to help promote information and awareness of Lipoedema and tips to improve the quality of life for those dealing with this chronic condition. It also covers Deep Oscillation Therapy, used by therapists and patients in conservative management and pre and post lipoedema liposuction care.

 

PhysioPod® UK Disclaimer: This page content is not to be construed or substituted for any type of medical advice but is for general educational purposes only. This content should not be used to self-diagnose. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your Doctor, they'll be able to give you help and advice on how to manage your symptoms and make a referral for diagnosis and treatment.

 

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.

LISTEN TO AUDIO 'WHAT IS LIPOEDEMA?'

 

Understanding and Diagnosing 

LINK TO CGP ELEARNING COURSE.

 

LINK TO LTA Specialist Lipoedema Training

 

30 Things We've Discovered Can Be Helpful in Lipoedema Management

Audio  Download PDF Download Video

 

 

UK SUPPORT GROUPS - CLICK LOGO FOR MORE INFORMATION

 

                  

                        

 

 

The WelcoMe App Adds Lipoedema

 

 

 

My.wel-co.me is an internet-based customer experience service that is inclusive and accessible. WelcoMe informs customer service teams of your general and specific needs before arriving. It can now be used at an increasing number of venues across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Fantastic news Welcome has recently added Lipoedema to their list of conditions and in doing so, will create much-needed awareness of this chronic condition, affecting approximately 11% of the female population.

 

               

HOW CAN DEEP OSCILLATION® HELP IN LIPOEDEMA?

 

 

 

WHAT IS DEEP OSCILLATION®?

DEEP OSCILLATION® is an internationally patented, clinically proven technology based on the effects of creating an electrostatic field in the tissue of the patient. Easy application is from therapist to patient/client via hygienic, vinyl-gloved hands; utilizing all normal massage movements or via circular movements over the tissue with a handheld applicator. The handheld applicator/s also enable self-treatment.

The special structure of DEEP OSCILLATION® allows the creation of biologically effective oscillations in the treated tissue using electrostatic attraction and friction. In contrast to other therapies, these pleasant oscillations have a gentle and deep-acting effect on all tissue components to an 8 cm depth (through the skin, connective tissue, subcutaneous fat, muscles, blood and lymph vessels).

Because of the non-invasive, non-traumatic, gentle nature of this therapy, very early possibilities of application are possible following injury and from Day One postoperatively. Chronic conditions can also be worked upon with effective results.

 

AUDIO - What is Deep Oscillation?

 

HOW DOES DEEP OSCILLATION WORK PRE AND POST LIPOEDEMA LIPOSUCTION?

 

Deep Oscillation has anti-oedema, lymph drainage, anti-fibrosis, and detoxifying qualities that help to prepare the tissue for liposuction while also enhancing the procedure's durability and effectiveness and minimising any potential side effects.

Due to its gentle, non-invasive nature, it can also be applied in the early post-operative stage, either by the patient themselves (see buying and hiring sections) with the personal unit or via a therapist.  The healing process is accelerated, pain, bruising and swelling reduced, scar quality is improved, and local inflammation is inhibited and stopped over a sustained period. The wound-healing process is supported.

 

Mr Vasu Karri (Consultant Plastic Surgeon) recommends Deep Oscillation for pre-Lipoedema liposuction in all Stage 3 and selected Stage 2 Lipoedema sufferers because he finds that deep oscillation therapy softens the fibrosis, with less bleeding, less complications and quicker recovery.

AUDIO DEEP OSCILLATION PRE AND POST LIPOSUCTION

 

 

• Lipoedema Liposuction Changes Life For Stage 3 Lipoedema Patient
  In this video Mr Karri talks to a Lipoedema patient who has undergone Lipoedema Liposuction. She describes how the surgery has already changed her life for the better. In the video, Mr Karri confirms that three months post op the combined approach of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Deep Oscillation is working to dissipate the oedema which will allow further liposuction to take place to the lady's calves and back of thighs.
• Mr Karri talks about the surgery he is to carry out and the impact that Deep Oscillation Therapy has had on his Lipoedema Stage 3 patient pre liposuction.
• Blog Post on the The Karri Clinic about how Deep Oscillation can help in non surgical Lipoedema management and pre and post liposuction
• Read latest new on Claire Tickle's journey of 7 surgeries for Lipoedema with pre and post operative rehabilitation with DEEP OSCILLATION® 

 

The effect of shock waves and deep oscillation on Lipoedema

 

 

DOWNLOAD FULL PDF \/

lmendras, María José Araneda Fuentes, María JosÉ Oyarzún Gallardo, Rodrigo Marcel Valentim Da Silva PhD, and Patrícia Froes Meyer PhD The effects of shock waves and deep oscillations on lipoedema Journal of Aesthetic Nursing 2024 13:2, 42-53

 

Deep Oscillation can help reduce any fibrosis post lipoedema liposuction

 

First World Congress on Lipedema, Potsdam, Germany, October 5-7, 2023: Deep Oscillation News (Oct 6th)

PhysioPod were delighted to receive this photograph today, snapped by leading consultant plastic surgeon Mr Vasu Karri, the UK’s top specialist in Lipoedema surgery, attending the first World Congress on Lipedema in Potsdam, Germany.
 
With the simple message, "This shows that Deep Oscillation is well accepted in Europe and mainstream treatment."

Mr Karri and many of his European colleagues advocate the use of deep oscillation therapy for lipoedema.

 

HOW DOES DEEP OSCILLATION WORK WITH PAIN?

 

Julie Soroczyn and I were delighted to welcome Dr Jens Reinhold, CEO of Physiomed Elektromedizin to the UK in May 2019 to present on "Deep Oscillation and Pain Relief" at the MLD UK Annual Conference. The talk was enthusiastically received by the healthcare professionals in attendance and it was captured on film by SilverIsland TV. 

 

Conditions that may co-exist with Lipoedema for which Deep Oscillation is clinically proven to help

 

LYMPHOEDEMA

The Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) acknowledges Lipoedema as one of the "lymphatic diseases," alongside Lymphoedema. It's common for Lipoedema and Lymphoedema to coexist, despite having distinct characteristics. Unfortunately, Lipoedema is frequently misinterpreted as obesity.

Lymphoedema is described as a swelling that develops as a result of an impaired lymphatic system and the oedema present is made up of fat, inflammation and fibrosis. Both fluid and solid components make up the oedema, and it is the solid component that makes it so challenging to cure.

Deep Oscillation is routinely used for the treatment and management of Lymphoedema as indicated in the publications listed

 

FIBROMYALGIA

 

"In this pilot study, deep oscillation massage was shown to be safe and well tolerated in patients with moderate to severe grades of FMS of high chronicity and was highly accepted. The 3-month follow-up revealed sustained improvements in symptoms and quality of life, hence suggesting a benefit from treatment with deep oscillation massage"

 

"I purchased a Physiopod after seeing a demonstration at the Lipoedema Ladies Annual Meeting in 2013. I have both Lipoedema and Fibromyalgia and thought it could help with pain management. I am very pleased to say that it certainly has, not only has it helped with pain but there have also been additional benefits, such as less swelling in my legs and an increase in energy after using it. This is perhaps what I like best about the Physiopod, it makes me feel less sluggish and full of beans. I would recommend that you always have a lesson on how to use it from your MLD therapist as PhysioPod™ UK Ltd recommend as you will get the best out of it. My MLD therapist was so impressed that she is considering purchasing a Physiopod to use when making client home visits. I can't thank Physiopod, Mary and Julie enough for bringing this to my attention and for their excellent customer service and ongoing customer support'.

Caroline, UK.

 

OSTEOARTHRITIS

 

 

 

"The most frequent location was in both knees (46% in the experimental group and 42% in the control group). At the end of the treatment, both groups had a positive outcome, with a high percentage of satisfactory results (88%) for those who received therapy of deep oscillations." 

 

"I had begun to notice pain, stiffness and swelling in the fingers of both hands, plus the knuckles of my right hand. As I do multiple crafts I really need my hands. Recently I have developed some nodules on my finger joints, so I spoke to my Doctor who diagnosed Osteoarthritis. Though recommended, I thought an x-ray was unnecessary because it was in the early stages and might not progress. I already take pain medication for Lipo-Lymphoedema and I cannot take anti-inflammatories because they bring on asthma attacks, exercises were recommended but some days I was really struggling to do my stitching or knitting as my hands were so sore. Suddenly I had a moment of inspiration, maybe my Deep Oscillation Personal could help? I started to use it on the trauma programme with the small applicator and this worked best for me. The treatment reduced pain and increased movement in my hands. I think this information will help fellow multi-crafters who may be struggling with OA. Deep Oscillation is non-invasive and effective, more people need to know about it." JW

 

 

 

TREATMENT WITH A DEEP OSCILLATION THERAPIST

 

• If you have Lipoedema, without secondary Lymphoedema, and are looking for a Deep Oscillation massage to help with symptoms, then all therapists on the map can potentially help you. Contact them directly, to see if it is a service they offer. If you feel more comfortable asking us to recommend a therapist to you, please email us with some details or call us on 01159 167 685 or mobile 07886 925 715..
• If you have Lipoedema with secondary Lymphoedema, then PhysioPod UK only recommend seeing a private MLD DLT Lymphoedema Therapist
• If you are planning Lipoedema liposuction, then again, PhysioPod UK only recommend seeing a private MLD DLT Lymphoedema Therapist

 

SELF-TREATMENT WITH DEEP OSCILLATION

Below are images with thanks to

Bel Hardman

@lipoedemafacts

who owns a DEEP OSCILLATION® PERSONAL 

and has used for pre and post care of several lipoedema liposuctions 

 Read about Bel's Journey here

 

 

BUYING A DEEP OSCILLATION® PERSONAL FOR SELF CARE

The Deep Oscillation Personal, either Basic or Pro version, can be purchased directly from PhysioPod® UK, we are the UK and Ireland Exclusive distributor for Deep Oscillation.  We don't sell online, as we pride ourselves on providing a bespoke, consultative service.  We want to get to know you and your requirements, we want to guide you to getting the best unit for you.  We also help you to set up your unit via a zoom session and we are there for all of your questions, to ensure that you get the best out of your investment.

Simply telephone Julie on 01159 167 785 or 07886 925 715 or email info@physiopod.co.uk - we can email over more information, recommend a therapist, a quote, and/or an order form.

Payment

We accept all debit and credit cards (with the exception of AMEX). Payment can also be made by bank transfer, all details are on the order form/invoice.  Delivery is with signed for with Royal Mail and is organised once payment has been made.

Aftercare/Servicing/Support

We are on hand for all aftercare support, servicing requirements and consumables going forward.

DEEP OSCILLATION HIRE

Hiring a unit for pre and post lipoedema liposuction is a great option. Just drop us a line to info@physiopod.co.uk to find out more or call us on 01159 167 785 or 07886 925 715 to organise the hire. Terms and conditions can be read here https://www.physiopod.co.uk/terms-and-conditions-of-hire.shtml

 

BUYING OR HIRING A DEEP OSCILLATION PERSONAL FOR SELF CARE AUDIO

 

FEEDBACK

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ OTHER TESTIMONIALS

 

 

 

Germany

• Lymphological Information Online (Germany) about Lipoedema 2023
• All about LIPEDEMA by Dominik von Lukowicz, Michael Sauter, Daniela Fleischmann, Ruth Leitenmeier 2021

Italy

• Update in the management of lipedema Isabel FORNER-CORDERO 1 *, Angeles FORNER-CORDERO 2, Gy?z? SZOLNOKY 3

United Kingdom

• Lipoedema UK Publication – Practical Guidance for Patients Considering Liposuction as an Option for Managing Lipoedema 2018 
• Wounds International: Use of the HIVAMAT® 200 with manual lymphatic drainage in the management of lower-limb lymphoedema and lipoedema Date: 21 March 2018 Author(s): Isabel Teo, Anna Coulborn, DA Munnoch 
• Lipoedema complicated by secondary lymphoedema July 2017 Practice Nursing 28(7):284-289 DOI:10.12968/pnur.2017.28.7.284 Authors: Dr Anne Williams, Isobel MacEwan
• Wounds UK. Best Practice Guidelines: The Management of Lipoedema. London: Wounds UK, 2017
• Best practice guidelines for the management of lipoedema D Hardy, A Williams - British journal of community nursing, 2017
• Fetzer A. Specialist approaches to managing lipoedema. Br J Community Nurs. 2016 Apr;Suppl:S30-5. doi: 10.12968/bjcn.2016.21.Sup4.S30. PMID: 27046426.
• Primary Care Nursing Review Feature DEEP OSCILLATION® therapy for Lipoedema, Lymphoedema and Lipo Lymphoedema, 2014

United States

• Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook Paperback (Author) Kathleen Helen Lisson CLT – July 7, 2019
• Lipedema Treatment Guide: A Certified Lymphedema Therapist's advice for her clients with lipedema. (Author) Kathleen Helen Lisson CLT  | Jul 17, 2018
• Nourollahi S., Mondry TE, Fall KL (2013): Bucher's Broom and Selenium Improve Lipedema: A Retrospective Case Study. Aging Integ Med 2 (4), 119.