Lipedema vs. Lymphedema: How Air Pressure Therapy Can Help
Millions of people in the U.S. live with swollen, heavy legs — but few know whether they’re dealing with lipedema, lymphedema, or both. And even fewer are told that air pressure therapy can make a real difference.
At Flowell, we believe that education is part of empowerment. Understanding your condition is the first step toward meaningful relief. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between lipedema and lymphedema, explain why they’re often confused, and share how our medically grounded compression system can help.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder, most commonly seen in women. It leads to:
- Bilateral, symmetrical fat buildup (especially in thighs, hips, calves, and sometimes arms)
- Pain, tenderness, and a bruising sensation in the affected areas
- Swelling that worsens throughout the day, often mistaken for "just weight gain"
Importantly, lipedema is not caused by obesity — and it doesn’t respond to diet or exercise alone.
What Is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition where the lymphatic system is damaged or underperforming, causing fluid buildup in soft tissues. It can be:
- Primary (genetic) or secondary (due to surgery, trauma, or cancer treatment)
- Localized to one leg, arm, or part of the body
- Progressive if left untreated, leading to hardening of tissue and infections
Unlike lipedema, lymphedema is primarily fluid-related, and treatment often focuses on reducing that fluid load.
Why Are These Conditions Often Confused?
- Both cause leg swelling and discomfort
- Both progress over time
- Both are frequently underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed
- Patients with lipedema may develop secondary lymphedema (known as lipolymphedema)
But they are different conditions. That’s why understanding your diagnosis is essential — and so is choosing a therapy that addresses both fat-related tension and fluid buildup.
The Role of Air Pressure Therapy (Sequential Compression)
Flowell’s Home Deluxe Pants use sequential pneumatic compression — a rhythmic air pressure that starts at the feet and moves upward. This technology has been used in medical settings for years, but Flowell makes it accessible, comfortable, and beautifully designed for home use.
Here's how it helps both conditions:
For Lipedema:
- Stimulates gentle lymphatic flow
- Reduces the feeling of tightness and pressure
- Supports daily symptom management without invasive procedures
For Lymphedema:
- Promotes drainage of excess lymphatic fluid
- Helps maintain results between MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) sessions
- Can prevent progression and improve mobility when used consistently
In our most recent observational study, ten women used the Flowell Home Deluxe Pants over several weeks. The results were clear: improved swelling, lighter legs, and reduced tension across all participants — including those with both lipedema and post-surgical lymphedema.
Key Takeaways for Patients
- You are not alone. Millions live with these conditions, often without answers.
- You are not imagining it. Pain, swelling, and daily discomfort are real.
- You are not powerless. With the right support, you can build a routine that gives you back control.
Flowell is designed to support people who feel stuck between diagnoses, between appointments, or between options. Because when your legs feel better, life gets lighter.
When to Speak with a Specialist
While Flowell is designed for at-home use, it’s always smart to consult with a healthcare provider if:
- Your swelling is sudden or one-sided
- You’ve had recent surgery or radiation therapy
- You’re unsure which condition you may have
We also recommend checking if you're eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement.
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