Lipedema
Lipedema: painful, heavy legs that diet doesn’t change
Lipedema is a long-term condition where fat builds up evenly in both legs, and sometimes the arms. It mostly affects women and is often mistaken for weight gain. Compression can ease heaviness and discomfort — and our certified fitters know how to fit lipedema legs.
Lipedema in plain words
A fat disorder that is not the same as weight gain, and not the same as lymphedema
What it is
How it looks and feels
Fat builds up evenly in both legs, often from hips to ankles. Legs can feel heavy, tender or sore and bruise easily. Feet are usually not affected, so there’s often a “cuff” at the ankle.
Why it’s missed
It is often called weight gain. Diet and exercise help overall health but don’t shrink lipedema fat the same way. Over time it can also lead to lymphedema.
Signs to watch for
Who it affects
- Almost always women
- Often starts or worsens at puberty, pregnancy or menopause
- Often runs in families
- Can happen at any body weight
What can help
- Compression garments — flat knit is often more comfortable for lipedema
- Moving every day — walking, swimming or water exercise
- Skin care and gentle self-massage
- A lymphedema therapist or lipedema specialist
- Talk to your provider about what’s right for you
How we help
Garments that fit lipedema legs
- Custom flat knit — firm, doesn’t roll or dig in
- Ready-to-wear stockings, leggings and capris
- Adjustable wraps
- Arm sleeves for upper-arm lipedema
- Night garments for comfort
We make it easy
- Certified fitters who measure lipedema shapes every day
- A private fitting room
- We check your insurance coverage for you
- We work with your therapist and provider
- HSA/FSA accepted online
Insurance: coverage for lipedema garments varies by plan — we check for you. Not covered? Shop online at cash prices, HSA/FSA accepted.
Learn more