For years, I didn’t have a name for what was happening in my body. From as early as puberty I was looking for answers for my legs, and like so many women with lipoedema, it took a long time to understand what I was actually living with.
This is a gentle introduction to lipoedema, and to how lymphatic care can sit alongside the support you receive from your medical team.
What is lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a chronic condition where fat builds up in a disproportionate way, most often in the legs, hips and sometimes the arms, while the hands and feet are usually spared. It almost always affects women, and it often appears or changes around times of hormonal shift, such as puberty, pregnancy and perimenopause.
Women with lipoedema often describe their limbs as heavy, tender or achy, and many notice they bruise easily. It isn’t caused by overeating or a lack of exercise, and it doesn’t respond to diet and exercise in the way ordinary weight gain does. That alone can be a huge relief to hear.
Lipoedema is different from lymphoedema, although the two can overlap. Only a doctor can diagnose lipoedema, so if this sounds familiar, please speak with your GP or a specialist.
How lymphatic drainage may help
I want to be honest here, because women with lipoedema have heard enough promises. Lymphatic drainage does not remove lipoedema fat, and it isn’t a cure. What many women find is that gentle, regular lymphatic work helps them feel more comfortable in their bodies.
Clients often tell us their legs feel lighter and less heavy, that swelling at the end of the day feels easier, and that they simply feel cared for in a body that is often misunderstood. Many find it a welcome part of their routine alongside compression, movement and the guidance of their medical team.
What a session looks like at KUYU Body
- Time to talk. We start with a conversation about your history, how your body feels and any advice you’ve had from your doctor or specialist.
- Gentle, unhurried work. Lipoedema tissue can be tender, so we adjust the pressure to what feels right for you, and it never goes deep.
- Longer sessions. Many women with lipoedema choose our 90-minute FLOWTOX™ session, which allows more time for the legs and hips.
- A plan that fits. We’ll talk about how often to come and what you can do at home between sessions.
Gentle support at home
- Move in ways that feel good. Walking, swimming and water-based exercise are kind to tender legs and help your lymph flow.
- Wear compression if it’s been recommended. Your doctor or a compression specialist can advise on the right garment for you.
- Activate, then brush. Gently activate your lymph nodes first, then use a soft dry brush with very light strokes towards your heart.
- Hydrate with minerals. Water is best absorbed with a pinch of quality salt or a trace mineral blend.
- Be kind to yourself. Lipoedema is not your fault, and your body deserves care, not punishment.
You don’t have to work it out alone
This is the reason KUYU Body exists. If you’re living with lipoedema and would like a calm, understanding space to look after your body, we would love to welcome you. Book a FLOWTOX™ session, or get in touch if you’d like to talk first.
~ Kirby, Founder
This article is general information only and isn’t medical advice. Please speak with your GP or specialist about diagnosis and treatment for lipoedema.