Book into the Mastering Menopause course here: https://www.taubepilates.com/mastering-menopause-with-pilates-matwork-online-course-for-teachers Discount code HOTFLUSH25 for 25% off What is lipoedema, how is it different from obesity and lymphoedema, and what role can exercise and Pilates play in managing it? In this episode of The Art of Pilates, I’m joined by physiotherapist and accredited lymphoedema therapist Carlie Chicofor an insightful conversation about lipedema — a condition that remains widely misunderstood despite affecting many women. Carlie shares her professional experience working with women with lipoedema, as well as her own personal experience of living with the condition. We explore what lipoedema is, the common signs and symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and why it can be so easily confused with obesity or lymphoedema. We also talk about the relationship between lipoedema and hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause, and the importance of early recognition and appropriate management. Most importantly, we discuss exercise and lipoedema. Carlie explains why exercise cannot simply "remove" lipoedema fat, but can still play an incredibly important role in strength, mobility, bone health, circulation, function and quality of life. We discuss Pilates, strength training, walking, hydrotherapy, compression and how to avoid doing too much too soon. In these two episodes, we cover: What lipoedema is and how it affects the body The common signs and symptoms of lipoedema How lipoedema differs from obesity and lymphoedema Why lipoedema can be painful and sensitive to touch The role of genetics and hormonal changes Lipoedema during puberty, pregnancy and menopause How lipoedema is diagnosed and whether there is a specific test Why early recognition and management are important Conservative treatment options, including compression The role of physiotherapy and lymphatic therapy Manual lymphatic drainage and compression pumps How Pilates can support women with lipedema Strength training and bone health Walking, cardiovascular exercise and hydrotherapy Whether exercise can make lipedema symptoms worse How to approach exercise without triggering excessive inflammation Compression during exercise When surgery may be considered The importance of working with a healthcare team Body image, mental health and the emotional impact of lipedema Why consistency and self-compassion matter If you have lipoedema, suspect you may have it, or are a Pilates teacher or exercise professional working with women with lipoedema, this episode offers a practical and compassionate conversation about understanding the condition and supporting movement for life. Lipoedema Australia: Incredible resource, find a practitioner page, and loads of great quality information. https://www.lipoedema.org.au/ Australasian Lymphology Association: Accdredited Lymphatic Therapistshttps://www.lymphoedema.org.au/accreditation-nlpr/find-a-practitioner/ or more information about Lymphoedema (often a co-morbidity):https://www.lymphaustralia.org.au/ https://www.platinumphysio.com.au/locations/brighton/ Practice address: 2/643 Nepean HighwayBrighton East VIC 3187 Ph: 03 8554 0111 Carlie's email cchilko@platinumphysio.com.au Connect with Louise Emaillouise@taubepilates.com Pilates Studiohttps://www.louisetaubepilates.com Teacher Traininghttps://www.taubepilates.com