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Lipedema is not the same as lymphedema
Lipedema is a connective-tissue disorder that can involve painful or tender adipose tissue, nodular or fibrotic areas, easy bruising, heaviness, altered movement, and musculoskeletal strain.
The tissue can be painful even without obvious swelling
Lipedema can affect how a person tolerates pressure, compression, position, and movement.
What it may feel like
Tender or painful tissue in the legs, hips, arms, or trunk; nodular or lumpy subcutaneous tissue; heaviness; discomfort after prolonged sitting or standing; muscular tension related to altered gait or load; or very different pressure tolerance from one area to another.
What an LMT may assess
We assess the muscular and soft-tissue concerns that fall within massage therapy scope.
We may look at
Tissue tolerance, muscular guarding, soft-tissue restriction, gait- and posture-related tension, movement patterns, and how symptoms change with activity, compression, or position.
Tell us about
Bruising, skin integrity, vascular issues, diagnosed lymphedema, surgery, compression garments, current medical care, and any lymphatic treatment.
Manual therapy can be broader than lymphatic drainage
Depending on the person and tissue tolerance, conservative care may include soft-tissue mobilization, myofascial techniques, and other individualized hands-on approaches.
What we may be addressing
Painful or guarded tissue, muscular compensation, movement restriction, and fascial or fibrotic-feeling areas within scope.
When another provider is the better lane
New unexplained swelling, infection, vascular concerns, or diagnosed lymphedema requiring complete decongestive therapy should involve an appropriately trained medical or lymphatic provider.
Not sure where to start?
Start with the concern, not the technique. Clinical Massage is booked by time; we assess first and adapt the session around what you are experiencing.