Supporting Children with Lipoedema: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Pediatric Lipoedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder that predominantly affects females, leading to disproportionate fat accumulation in the hips, legs, buttocks, and sometimes arms. While it is rare in children, early signs can emerge during puberty or adolescence. Understanding this condition and knowing how to support your children is crucial for their physical and emotional well-being. For that reason, I wrote these 6 strategies that will help you navigate and put on a safe place your children while facing this condition. Let´s have a closer look…

What is Lipoedema?

Main characteristics of lipoedema are:

• Symmetrical fat distribution in affected areas, sparing the hands and feet.
• Pain or tenderness in the affected regions.
• Increased tendency to bruise easily.
• Resistance to weight loss through exercise or a non-tailored diet.
• Increased sensitivity to pressure and discomfort.

Although its exact cause remains unknown, genetic predisposition plays a significant role. That is to say, iIf a parent carries the genes associated with lipoedema, their children, especially daughters, might inherit the condition. 

Support children with lipoedema: Challenges Faced by Children

Children with lipoedema may experience:

• Physical discomfort such as heaviness or sharp pain in the affected areas.
• Difficulty participating in physical activities due to pain or mobility issues.
• Emotional distress stemming from body image concerns or misunderstanding of their condition by peers and adults.
• Bullying from unsupportive (no empathy) people or peers.
• Low self esteem.
• Stress, anxiety or social isolation due to shame.

How to Support Children with Lipoedema: 6 strategies

1. Early Diagnosis and expert visit

Recognising symptoms early can lead to timely intervention. Consult specialists in pediatric lymphology or phlebology for proper diagnosis. Early management can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

2. Talk to your Child about the condition

Help your child understand that lipoedema is a medical condition unrelated to personal issues. This knowledge can alleviate feelings of guilt or frustration about their body.

3. Work together to implement tailored treatments

Ask the specialist team (pediatriciam, lipoedema therapist, cardiovascular specialist, etc.) for tailored treatments which are essential for managing lipoedema:

• Compression Therapy: Compression garments help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A gentle massage technique that stimulates lymph flow and reduces pain and  inflammation.
• Skin Care: Regular care prevents complications like cellulitis and skin infections.

4. Encouraging Physical Activity

While exercise cannot reduce lipoedemic fat, activities like swimming or cycling can improve mobility, prevent obesity-related complications, and enhance overall wellness.

5. Providing Emotional Support

Psychological and emotional support are critical for children coping with lipoedema:

• Encourage open conversations about their feelings.
• Seek professional counseling if needed.
• Promote self-esteem by focusing on their strengths and achievements beyond physical appearance.

6. Building a Support Network

Connect with organizations like Lipoedema UK or online communities to access resources, share experiences, and find support groups where your child can openly talk about the condition, find peers to spend time with. In addition, parent can also get support from other families facing pediatric lipoedema.

How to Support children with lipoedema: A final word

Lipoedema is a chronic condition, however, consistent management can help children lead fulfilling lives. Research into genetic causes continues to offer hope for better understanding and treatment options in the future. By addressing both physical symptoms and emotional needs, parents and caregivers can empower children with lipoedema to thrive despite the challenges of this condition. For more information about pediatric lipoedema visit my previous blog. Lipoedema cannot stop children´s dreams!

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20358611/

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ajmg.a.33313

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21617474/

https://lipoedema.co.uk/about-lipoedema/