Lipedema is seen to occur in certain families. It may be symptomatic or asymptomatic and so adds to the misery in being recognized and remains untreated until late. The so called “pear shaped” body in women has also been considered as a sign of enhanced beauty which may also be a strong reason to be identified as normal and hence neglected. There is an irregular, nodular fat which is bilaterally symmetrical which is also misdiagnosed as cellulite most often.

There is a progressive abnormal deposition of fat in the lower body in lipedema. This initially could be painless but may become painful or tender for no reason. Lipedema is usually diagnosed as some kind of neuralgic pain or having some kinds of psychological issues.

As the disease progresses walking becomes difficult. The unusual fat deposition in the hips, inner thighs and around the knees leads to gait imbalances and early arthritis and joint degeneration. Even though they undergo knee replacement for pain relief they have little or no improvement in their distorted gait as the primary issue is largely uncorrected.