I've been getting SO many questions about lipedema on social media lately, so I wanted to sit down and have a more personal conversation about it.

For 15 years, I hid my legs.

If you've followed me for a while, you might have noticed that I rarely wear shorts. Even friends would ask why.

The truth is that I didn't understand why my legs were not training the way I thought they should.

So I trained hard. I worked with coaches who pushed me, but instead of getting the results I expected, I was often in pain. My legs felt heavy. I bruised easily. I dealt with swelling and water retention.

And for years, I didn't have an explanation.

Eventually, I started researching lipedema. I spent three or four years learning as much as I could before ultimately traveling to Germany for my diagnosis.

That experience is why I'm talking about this now.

What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic condition involving abnormal connective and adipose tissue that occurs predominantly in women. It commonly causes a disproportionate, symmetrical accumulation of tissue in areas such as the legs, hips, buttocks and sometimes the arms.

Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, easy bruising, swelling, heaviness and difficulty with mobility. Some women also develop a noticeable cuff of tissue around the ankles or wrists.

One thing I want to make very clear is that lipedema is not simply a matter of gaining weight or needing to exercise more.

The Lipedema Foundation notes that lipedema tissue can be difficult to reduce through diet and exercise alone. Diagnosis is based on medical history, symptoms and a physical examination, so if you recognize some of these symptoms in yourself, speak with a knowledgeable healthcare professional rather than trying to diagnose yourself.

Source: https://www.lipedema.org/diagnosing-lipedema

What's Made A Difference For Me?

Everyone is different, but there are three areas that have been incredibly important in managing my own symptoms.

The first is nutrition. I personally focus on eating an anti-inflammatory diet with healthy fats and lower-glycemic carbohydrates. Research into nutrition and lipedema is still evolving, and there is not currently enough evidence to say that one specific diet is best for everyone.

The second is exercise, especially strength training. I spent years thinking I needed to beat my body into submission. Now I understand how important it is to work with my body instead. Exercise can help with strength, mobility and overall function.

The third thing that's helped me is manual lymphatic drainage and massage. I use these as part of managing the heaviness, tissue and fluid retention I experience.

These approaches are NOT unique to me. The Lipedema Foundation discusses exercise, compression, manual therapy and nutrition among the conservative strategies that may be used to help manage symptoms. The right combination will depend on the individual.

Source: https://www.lipedema.org/treating-lipedema

What Should You Do Next?

If you're reading this because something about my story sounds familiar, start asking questions.

Do your research. Talk to healthcare professionals who understand lipedema. Look for reputable resources and support communities. Most importantly, remember that another woman’s experience does not automatically determine what will work for your body.

I am sharing my story because I spent far too many years wondering why my body was not responding the way everyone told me it should.

If you have a question about my experience with lipedema or want to know more about what I have learned along the way, send us a DM over on Instagram. I'm happy to keep this conversation going.

Apply to work with me here.