Effects of multimodal exercise program on edema, pain, exercise capacity, lower extremity muscle strength and function in patients with lipedema

<b>Objectives:</b> This study aimed to examine the effects of a multimodal exercise program on edema, pain, exercise capacity, lower extremity muscle strength, and function in patients with lipedema.<b>Methods:</b> The patients diagnosed with lipedema were randomly assigned to either the exercise (<i>n</i>: 11) or control (<i>n</i>: 11) groups. The exercise group participated in supervised group exercises focusing on aerobic and strengthening, twice a week for 6 weeks. The control group received training on physical activity additionally lipedema management. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. Edema (circumference measurements and local tissue water-LTW%), pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale-VAS) and pressure pain threshold (Algometer), functional exercise capacity (Six minute walk test-6MWT), lower extremity muscle strength (Handheld dynamometer), lower extremity muscle strength/endurance (Sit-to-stand test) and lower extremity function (Lower Extremity Functional Scale-LEFS) were evaluated.<b>Results:</b> In the exercise group, significant reductions in pain during rest, activity, and nighttime, 6MWT distance, quadriceps and hip muscle strength, lower extremity strength/endurance, and function were observed (<i>p</i> < .05). When comparing the groups, no significant differences were found (<i>p</i> > .05); however, clinically, there were differences in limb volumes, pain reduction, muscle strength, and functional improvements, with medium to large effect sizes.<b>Conclusion:</b> The main findings of this study highlight the benefits of structured multimodal exercises for patients with lipedema to improve pain, limb volumes, exercise capacity, lower extremity muscle strength, endurance, and functionality.<b>Clinical trials number:</b> NCT06811961.