The Benefits of Pressotherapy for Lipoedema: Does It Really Work?
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that primarily affects women, characterised by a symmetrical build-up of painful fat and fluid retention, especially in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms. Managing lipoedema involves a combination of lifestyle changes (nutrition and exercise), manual therapies, and compression treatments. One increasingly popular option is pressotherapy. It is a non-invasive treatment that uses air pressure to stimulate lymphatic flow. But how effective is it for people living with lipoedema? In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of pressotherapy for lipoedema, how it works, and whether it’s the right choice for managing your symptoms.
What Is Pressotherapy?
Pressotherapy is a mechanical lymphatic drainage technique that uses an air-pressure device connected to a suit, which is worn over the legs, abdomen, and/or arms. This suit inflates in waves to apply gentle pressure on the body, mimicking the effect of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD).
The treatment is pain-free, often relaxing, and typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes per session. It’s often used to:
- Stimulate lymphatic and venous return
- Reduce fluid retention
- Improve circulation
- Relieve heaviness or discomfort in limbs
How Can Pressotherapy Help with Lipoedema?
While pressotherapy does not reduce fat deposits (as lipoedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise), it may support symptom relief and quality of life in several ways:
1. Supports Lymphatic Drainage
Lipoedema is often accompanied by lymphatic dysfunction or lymphoedema, especially in the later stages. Pressotherapy enhances lymph flow, helping to remove excess fluid and toxins from the tissues.
2. Reduces Pain and Heaviness
Many lipoedema sufferers experience aching, pain, or a heavy feeling in the affected limbs. By encouraging circulation and reducing fluid build-up, pressotherapy may help relieve these symptoms.
3. Minimises Swelling
Although pressotherapy doesn’t target the fat cells directly, it can significantly reduce fluid-related swelling (also known as secondary oedema), improving mobility and comfort in daily life.
4. Improves Skin Tone and Texture
Some patients report that regular sessions help to improve skin appearance, reduce feelings of tightness, and boost overall limb shape by reducing water retention.
Is Pressotherapy Safe for People with Lipoedema?
For most people with lipoedema, pressotherapy is a safe and effective complementary treatment especially when supervised by a trained practitioner or lymphoedema therapist. However, there are some important considerations:
- Always consult a specialist first, especially if you have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), active cancer, heart conditions, or severe varicose veins.
- If you have hypermobility or fragile joints (which is common among those with lipoedema), the pressure settings should be carefully adjusted to avoid strain.
How Often Should You Have Pressotherapy?
The frequency of pressotherapy sessions depends on your individual needs and condition severity. Many practitioners recommend:
- 1–2 sessions per week for moderate symptoms
- A tailored maintenance plan as part of a wider lipoedema management programme
It’s best used alongside Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression garments, and gentle exercise, such as walking or rebounding.
Does Pressotherapy Really Work for Lipoedema?
Pressotherapy is not a cure for lipoedema, and it cannot eliminate lipoedema fat. However, for many patients, it plays a valuable role in managing symptoms like fluid retention, pain, swelling, and heaviness.
When used consistently and in conjunction with other therapies, pressotherapy can help:
- Improve comfort and mobility
- Prevent progression of swelling
- Enhance overall wellbeing
A final word…
Pressotherapy can be a powerful addition to your lipoedema care plan, helping to relieve discomfort and support lymphatic health. While it won’t reverse fat accumulation, it can help you feel lighter, move better, and live more comfortably.
As always, speak to your healthcare provider or lymphoedema therapist to find out whether pressotherapy is right for you. When used wisely and safely, it offers a gentle yet effective way to boost circulation and relieve the daily burdens of lipoedema.
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://www.healthline.com/health/pressotherapy
https://www.talklipoedema.org/
