Physiotherapeutic resources in lipedema: A scoping review

BackgroundLipedema is a chronic condition that predominantly affects women and is commonly associated with pain, edema, and functional impairment. Conservative physiotherapy interventions are frequently recommended; however, the scope and characteristics of the available evidence remain unclear.ObjectiveTo map the existing evidence on conservative physiotherapy interventions for lipedema, focusing on intervention types, outcomes assessed, and methodological characteristics.MethodsA scoping review was conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligibility was guided by the PCC framework. Electronic databases and gray literature were searched for primary studies and secondary sources addressing conservative physiotherapy interventions for lipedema. Data were synthesized descriptively.Results15 records were included, comprising randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and secondary sources such as reviews, guidelines, and consensus documents. The most frequently investigated interventions were complex decongestive therapy, therapeutic compression, structured exercise programs, and adjunct physical modalities. Outcomes mainly included edema, pain, functional capacity, and quality of life. Among primary studies, multimodal conservative physiotherapy approaches were the most frequently reported. Secondary sources consistently described conservative physiotherapy as a component of care, although they were not treated as independent confirmation of treatment effects.ConclusionThe available literature suggests that conservative physiotherapy is frequently described as a component of lipedema management. However, the evidence base is characterized by methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and the absence of formal quality appraisal, and the findings should be interpreted as a mapping of the available evidence rather than as evidence of treatment efficacy.