In 2022, Lipedema Foundation sponsored research by Prof. Dr. Tim Hucho and Rebecca Dinnendahl, PhDc in Germany. The goal of this recently published research study was to make such reports of pain in part objectifiable by measuring the sensitivity to a variety of stimuli such as warmth, cold, touch, painful heat, painful cold, pressure pain, and vibration. Their findings suggest a heightened sensitivity to pressure pain, a reduction in sensitivity to vibration, and a completely normal response for all other tested sensations.

The Lipedema Foundation had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Tim Hucho, the Principal Investigator, and neuroscientist Rebecca Dinnendahl, first author on the publication and lead scientist of the study, to discuss what pain is and why this research matters for individuals with Lipedema, clinicians, and the research community.  Read more to hear their perspective on pain in general, on the research outcomes, their thoughts on working with the Lipedema population, and future implications for enhancing the early diagnosis of Lipedema – specifically an explanation of the potential of using sensory testing as an accessible diagnostic tool going forward. 

In this insightful interview, pelvic health experts Tiffany Baker, PhD(eligible), PT, DPT, CFMT, C.Ac., CPT (NASM-PES), and Kelly Schroeder, PT, DPT, CLT, MBA, discuss the intricacies of the pelvic floor, the importance of pelvic health for women, particularly those with Lipedema, and what to expect from pelvic floor therapy. Their combined expertise offers valuable information for anyone seeking to understand and improve their pelvic health. 

Lipedema is an often under-recognized condition that primarily affects women. While it can cause chronic pain and significantly impact a person’s quality of life, understanding and managing this condition can lead to improved outcomes and hope for the future. Based on the latest research and insights, here are ten crucial things to know about Lipedema.

We are excited to share that the Fat Disorders Resource Society (FDRS), a volunteer patient-led organization, is hosting its annual conference (FDRS 2024 Annual Conference) in St. Louis on April 19-21. The Lipedema Foundation will be attending the event, which gathers patients, clinicians, therapists, and researchers for education, networking, and listening.  There are many wonderful aspects of FDRS, and LF has compiled 5 compelling ones we hope will encourage you to attend in 2024!

Lipedema research is still in its infancy. While we do not yet have definitive answers to many questions, a handful of studies published in 2023 provide promising beginnings for future investigation. The studies featured here highlight the steady advancement of a nascent field. The past twelve months saw the publication of 100 papers on Lipedema, with close to 50 primary data papers, and some significant reports funded by the Lipedema Foundation (LF). It is our hope that this forward momentum will serve to inspire our community and ignite new research questions in 2024 and beyond.