Integrative Lipedema Treatments

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Integrative Lipedema Treatments
www.lymphatictherapyservices.com
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Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory disease of
complex causes, of which we understand little
about. Lipedema occurs almost exclusively in
females and is characterized by symmetrical
flabby swelling of the legs. There is an abnormal
accumulation of fatty deposits starting in the
hip region and ending at the ankles. The arms and
abdomen can also be affected. Lipedema treatment
is still fairly misunderstood, and health
professionals and physicians may dismiss the
patient and tell them to lose weight.
They are blamed for being overweight, told they
eat too much or are cheating on their
prescribed diets. There is a lack of sympathy and
understanding and this can cause anxiety,
frustration and a feeling of helplessness.
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This condition is a genetic abnormality and the
obesity is not the patients fault.
The treatment for the Lipedema patient is
complex. Individuals with a diagnosis of lipedema
need to have both physical and psychological
support, to help them overcome the mental anguish
which accompanies the condition. Clinicians
should also provide nutritional guidance to
decongest and to avoid additional weight gain.
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Why do I swell ?
A condition that interferes with the flow of
lymph will result in edema. Excess fatty tissue
will impact upon the lymphatics and disturb the
flow Fat cells can contain toxic material such as
dioxins, mercury, and other heavy metals which
contribute to the inflammation Inactivity further
exacerbates the condition reduced pumping on
calf and increasing swelling. Lymph fluid is
absorbed from the initial lymphatic vessels in
the tissue, enters the lymphatic system and is
pumped upwards. Constriction of the lymphatic
vessels by an increased fat deposit restricts
absorption The return flow of the lymphatic
vessels is blocked
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Integrative Treatment for Lipedema
Manual lymph drainage (MLD) A form of massage
that uses gentle, rhythmic pumping movements to
stimulate the flow of lymph around blocked areas
to healthy vessels, where it can drain into the
venous system. This helps relieve pain and
prevent fibrosis. Compression The use of stretch
bandages or custom-fitted panty hose, panties,
and/or spandex shorts to increase tissue pressure
in the edematous legs, to decrease the
re-accumulation of fluid and effect a significant
reduction in adipose tissue Exercise- Helps
reduce fluid buildup, increase mobility, and
maintain or improve function. Rebounding, whole
body vibration, walking, yoga and swimming should
be included. Deep Breathing helps to move lymph,
by stimulating the vessels in the
abdomen Anti-inflammatory Diet concentrate on
nuts and seeds and foods high in omega 3 fatty
acids.
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The foods you eat play an important role in how
you feel. Junk, processed and fast foods contain
too much sugar, salt and white flour which, can
aggravate inflammation. Avoid red meat, as it
contains arachidonic acid, which in excess will
make your inflammation worse. Follow a
Mediterranean diet as an anti-inflammatory
dietary pattern. This diet consists of fruits and
vegetables, nuts, olive oil, beans, legumes and
fish, is moderate in alcohol and eliminates
processed meat, refined carbohydrates and
whole-fat dairy products.
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Fish oils generally decrease several markers of
inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in
high levels in fatty fish, such as mackerel, lake
trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, wild
salmon and halibut. Dietary sources of the omega
3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid include
flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin
seeds, hemp seeds, soybeans and some dark green
leafy vegetables. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce the
risk of obesity
Medium chain fatty acids
Incorporating medium fatty acids (MCT) in the
diet can help patients with lipedema. They are
easily absorbed and unlike other fats, which are
stored in the adipose tissue, MCTs put little
strain on the digestive system, provide a feeling
of satiety and give a quick source of energy.
Animal and human studies have shown that the fast
rate of oxidation of MCFA leads to greater energy
expenditure (EE), resulting in less body weight
gain and decreased size of fat depots after
several months of consumption. Pure virgin cold,
pressed coconut oil and Caprylic acid are medium
fatty acids
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Conclusion
Patients should continue on this multifaceted
program to prevent the condition from getting
worse, as the disease can progress to lipedema if
left completely untreated. It is important to
seek out a qualified and caring therapist to
support and encourage.
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Lymphatic Therapy Services
[phone]
info_at_lymphatictherapyservices.com
www.lymphatictherapyservices.com/
3282 Governor Drive, San Diego, California
92122, USA