Efficacy of Complex Decongestive Therapy, Exercise and Diet in Women With Lipedema

Efficacy of Complex Decongestive Therapy, Exercise, and Nutritional Interventions in Women Diagnosed With Lipedema: A Prospective, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of standard physical therapy methods (Complex Decongestive Therapy, Pneumatic Compression, and Exercise) combined with two different nutritional approaches (personalized anti-inflammatory diet vs. standard healthy nutrition education) in women diagnosed with lower extremity lipedema.

This single-center, prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial will include 75 female participants aged 18-65 with Stage I, II, or III lipedema. Participants will receive either a personalized anti-inflammatory diet or standard nutrition education, alongside a standard 12-week physical therapy protocol. Evaluations will be conducted at baseline, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks to measure changes in lower extremity circumference/volume, body composition, ultrasonographic tissue characteristics, functional capacity (6MWT), pain severity (VAS), and quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female, aged 18 to 65 years.
• Clinical and physical examination confirming Stage I, II, or III lipedema.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) < 45 kg/m^2.
• Ability to walk without restriction.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of active malignancy.
• Decompensated heart failure.
• Significant lower extremity peripheral artery disease.
• Acute deep vein thrombosis or active thromboembolism.
• Pregnancy.
• Significant sensory loss or severe neuropathy in the lower extremities.
• History of lower extremity liposuction within the last 12 months.
• Active severe infection (e.g., cellulitis).
• Other severe systemic diseases deemed unsafe for the study by researchers.
• Severe non-compliance with the study protocol (e.g., missing >30% of planned sessions) or participant requesting withdrawal.