Lipoedema is a challenging condition for patients, health and social care professionals. Lack of understanding about the condition leads to delayed diagnosis and poor support with self-management. This paper draws on key evidence, best practice guidelines for the management of lipoedema, and a patient story, to provide insights into the presentation, diagnosis, impact and management of the condition. It also identifies key points for practice for community nurses.
This article is the second in a two-part series on managing common lower limb problems encountered in primary care. The first article in the series (Brown, 2017) discussed the causes of oedema and its relation to underlying conditions, such as venous disease, lymphoedema and lipoedema. This article investigates skin care, the management of ‘wet legs’ and the different types of compression therapy available to non-specialist community nurses.
