Episode 1557

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Published on:

16th Nov 2024

Understanding the Five Types of Lipedema

In this episode, Raeann Sparks explains the five distinct types of lipedema, each with unique characteristics:

Type 1: Resembles a “puffy diaper” effect, with lipedema fat around the hips.

Type 2: Extends to the knees, similar to bloomers or joggers.

Type 3: Reaches the ankles, like harem pants.

Type 4: Affects only the arms, resembling mutton-chopped or poet sleeves.

Type 5: Limited to the calves, like padded greaves.

Each type requires specialized care, as lipedema is not simply excess fat.

Show artwork for Living Well with Lipedema

About the Podcast

Living Well with Lipedema
Lipedema, the disease they call fat, is a chronic fat disorder that affects 17 million women in the USA and as many as 350 million women worldwide. It is often mistaken for simple obesity. Generally under-recognized and misdiagnosed, symptoms include pain, swelling and weight gain disproportionately distributed in the thighs, buttocks, legs, and hips with a smaller upper body. Lipedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise and without intervention progresses and worsens over time. This flash briefing offers tips, news, and updates with the founder and director of Lipedema Simplified, Catherine A. Seo, Ph.D., Lipedema Project Board President and Director of Research, Leslyn Keith, OTD, CLT-LANA, and guest experts. Please note DISCLAIMER The information in Living Well with Lipedema is provided for informational and educational purposes only.
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About your host

Profile picture for Catherine Seo

Catherine Seo

About CATHERINE SEO, PhD
Catherine is Founder & Director of Lipedema Simplified & The Lipedema Project and a professor of psychology. She produced and directed the documentary, The Disease They Call FAT, and was a co-author of the book, Lipedema-The Disease They Call FAT: An Overview for Clinicians. She holds a doctorate in Psychology with a concentration in Media. She has developed online courses on lipedema for patients and healthcare professionals as well as multi-media learning tools since 2013 and is the Director of the MasterClass Program, courses and webinars.


About LESLYN KEITH, OTD, CLT-LANA
Leslyn is President & Director of Research for The Lipedema Project, an instructor in lymphedema therapy for Klose Traning and Consulting, and has a private practice in lymphedema/lipedema therapy. She has completed research about lifestyle change, including a ketogenic way of eating, for participants who were diagnosed with lymphedema and obesity. Leslyn has a doctorate in Occupational Therapy and has been treating lymphatic disorders since 2000.