Exercise
Non-aerobic exercises such as swimming, walking and cycling are recommended because they increase lymphatic drainage and improve blood flow through the affected limbs. High impact exercising (i.e. jogging, step-aerobics) should be avoided as they may exacerbate join pain.
Exercising in water is particularly beneficial. It supports painful joints and the pressure of deep water on the legs helps improve lymphatic and venous function. Walking in chest-high water (in a safe place) is especially good because it provides graduated, painless compression to the legs.
Many women with Lipoedema are reluctant to take part in group or public exercises, but it is worth persevering as lack of exercise can lead to increased lack of mobility, which in turn limits the ability to exercise and makes it harder to keep fit.
People with lipoedema should avoid sitting or standing for long periods and always try to build some form of exercising into their daily routine.
