Title: Best Lymphedema in San Diego
1Integrative Lipedema Treatments
Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory disease of
complex causes, of which we understand little
about. Lipedema occurs almost exclusively in
females and is characterized by symmetrical
flabby swelling of the legs. There is an abnormal
accumulation of fatty deposits starting in the
hip region and ending at the ankles. The arms and
abdomen can also be affected. Lipedema treatment
is still fairly misunderstood, and health
professionals and physicians may dismiss the
patient and tell them to lose weight. They are
blamed for being overweight, told they eat too
much or are cheating on their prescribed diets.
There is a lack of sympathy and understanding and
this can cause anxiety, frustration and a feeling
of helplessness. This condition is a genetic
abnormality and the obesity is not the patients
fault. The treatment for the Lipedema patient is
complex. Individuals with a diagnosis of lipedema
need to have both physical and psychological
support, to help them overcome the mental anguish
which accompanies the condition. Clinicians
should also provide nutritional guidance to
decongest and to avoid additional weight gain.
2Why do I swell ?
A condition that interferes with the flow of
lymph will result in edema. Excess fatty tissue
will impact upon the lymphatics and disturb the
flow Fat cells can contain toxic material such as
dioxins, mercury, and other heavy metals which
contribute to the inflammation Inactivity further
exacerbates the condition - reduced pumping on
calf and increasing swelling. Lymph fluid is
absorbed from the initial lymphatic vessels in
the tissue, enters the lymphatic system and is
pumped upwards. Constriction of the lymphatic
vessels by an increased fat deposit restricts
absorption The return flow of the lymphatic
vessels is blocked
Integrative Treatment for Lipedema Manual lymph
drainage San Diego (MLD) A form of massage that
uses gentle, rhythmic pumping movements to
stimulate the flow of lymph around blocked areas
to healthy vessels, where it can drain into the
venous system. This helps relieve pain and
prevent fibrosis.
Compression- The use of stretch bandages or
custom-fitted panty hose, panties, and/or spandex
shorts to increase tissue pressure in the
edematous legs, to decrease the re-accumulation
of fluid and effect a significant reduction in
adipose tissue
Exercise- Helps reduce fluid buildup, increase
mobility, and maintain or improve function.
Rebounding, whole body vibration, walking, yoga
and swimming should be included. Deep Breathing
helps to move lymph, by stimulating the vessels
in the abdomen Anti-inflammatory Diet -
concentrate on nuts and seeds and foods high in
omega 3 fatty acids. The foods you eat play an
important role in how you feel. Junk, processed
and fast foods contain too much sugar, salt and
white flour which, can aggravate
inflammation. Avoid red meat, as it contains
arachidonic acid, which in excess will make your
inflammation worse. Follow a Mediterranean diet
as an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern. This
diet consists of fruits and vegetables, nuts,
olive oil, beans, legumes and fish, is moderate
in alcohol and eliminates processed meat, refined
carbohydrates and whole-fat dairy products. Fish
oils generally decrease several markers of
inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in
high levels in fatty fish, such as mackerel, lake
trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, wild
salmon and halibut. Dietary sources of the omega
3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid include
flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin
seeds, hemp seeds, soybeans and some dark green
leafy vegetables. Omega 3 fatty acids reduce the
risk of obesity
3Medium chain fatty acids
Incorporating medium fatty acids (MCT) in the
diet can help patients with lipedema. They are
easily absorbed and unlike other fats, which are
stored in the adipose tissue, MCTs put little
strain on the digestive system, provide a feeling
of satiety and give a quick source of energy.
Animal and human studies have shown that the fast
rate of oxidation of MCFA leads to greater energy
expenditure (EE), resulting in less body weight
gain and decreased size of fat depots after
several months of consumption. Pure virgin cold,
pressed coconut oil and Caprylic acid are medium
fatty acids
Conclusion Patients should continue on this
multifaceted program to prevent the condition
from getting worse, as the disease can progress
to lipedema if left completely untreated. It is
important to seek out a qualified and caring
therapist to support and encourage.
(858)457-0191 info_at_lymphatictherapyservices.com
Lymphatic Therapy Services ,3282 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122