
Many others have explained Lipedema and documented their paths for all of us to learn from and enjoy. Here are some definitions, information and other sites to check out:
Lipedema is a chronic medical condition characterized by a symmetric buildup of adipose tissue (fat) in the legs and arms. A common but under recognized disorder, lipedema may cause pain, swelling, and easy bruising.
https://www.fatdisorders.org/lipedema
Lipedema / Lipoedema / Lipödem
Definition:
Lipedema (painful fat syndrome) is a chronic disease that occurs mostly in females. It is characterized by bilateral, symmetrical fatty tissue excess, mainly in the hip region, upper and lower leg areas and combined with a tendency for leg swelling that worsens with standing. In male patients lipedema is extremely rare (1). Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as bilateral lower extremity lymphedema or as simple obesity.
https://www.talklipoedema.org/ (UK Group)
Lipoedema is a chronic and progressive disorder of the adipose tissue. It’s often called painful fat syndrome, and it mainly affects women (though there are some cases of male sufferers). It is marked by the abnormal storage and distribution of subcutaneous fat. Lipoedema can occur at any age, with newer research showing that the disease generally manifests itself during puberty, pregnancy or other times of hormonal change. It is thought that genes play a role, although more research is desperately needed into this disease.
http://www.lipomadoc.org/
Dr. Karen Herbst is widely recognized as one of the top Lipedema practitioners. Her paper posted in the National Center for Biotechnology Information is a seminal work on Lipedema and other fat disorders. This image is from that site and all rights belong there.

Susan O’Hara shares her personal journey, tips, tricks and recommendations. She is an inspiration!
https://www.instagram.com/fc.lipoedeme/
Flore makes delightful and educational images about Lipedema.


Facebook Groups have been a huge source of support and education for me. The Lipedema Community constantly shows kindness, understanding and support.
House of Hagerty – Facebook group for current, past & potential future patients of Dr. Hagerty
https://www.facebook.com/groups/houseofhagerty
Global Lipoedema Awareness – Surgeries/Doctors
https://www.facebook.com/groups/mylipoedematreatmentjourney/
Lipedema Warriors
https://www.facebook.com/groups/536486686555453/
Liposuction for Lipedema
https://www.facebook.com/groups/liposuctionforlipedema
Lipedema Sisters USA
https://www.facebook.com/groups/lipedemasistersusa
Vibration for Fat Disorders
https://www.facebook.com/groups/vibrationforfatdisorders
Lipedema Sisters Minnesota
https://www.facebook.com/groups/461157151169807/
and my own baby group Lipedema Revolution