I have lipodema in my upper legs. I have the classic tree trunk leg look with smaller upper body. I think I am lucky that it’s not a further stage as it doesn’t swell but the skin is always cold and can get a bit painful and bruises easily. I’ve lost loads of weight and been working out (especially legs) for many months. I also try to eat low inflammation foods as this is a good way to manage it, there is no help on NHS for this so it’s pointless trying that although they did diagnose me. I am scared of things like liposuction so I wouldn’t do that. I’ve got a few KG still to lose but it’s getting very hard as this type of fat isn’t able to be burnt off by diet and exercise.
The only way I can describe the texture and look of my legs is like I have lots of hard small balls/beads of fat under the skin. If you run your hand down my thigh with light pressure it’s very fibrous and it actually hurts to touch. If like my child or dog leans on my thigh it really hurts. They also look uneven and lumpy.
I’ve had good success of toning up so far and my legs are really strong now, but I don’t know if the appearance of them is ever going to get better? Has anyone with lipodema found exercise and losing weight to make a huge difference in appearance?