Prevalence of sarcopenia and its functional correlates in women with lower-extremity lipedema: A cross-sectional observational study

Abstract

Background

Lipedema is a chronic, progressive adipose tissue disorder affecting mainly women, characterized by bilateral, disproportionate fat accumulation in the lower extremities. The condition is often associated with pain, heaviness, and functional limitations. While the adipose tissue changes in lipedema are well-described, its impact on muscle mass, strength, and functional performance remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and its relationship with lipedema severity.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 48 women with clinically diagnosed lower-extremity lipedema. Diagnosis followed the International Lipoedema Association and German S2k guidelines. Sarcopenia was assessed using a multidimensional approach, including ultrasonographic rectus femoris thickness, handgrip strength, the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test, and four-m walking speed. The lipedema stage was determined using morphological criteria. Statistical analyses evaluated the relationships between sarcopenia, functional parameters, and lipedema stage.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 47.2 ± 8.4 years and a BMI of 33.0 ± 4.3 kg/m². Sarcopenia was identified in 33.3% of participants, with 14.6% classified as severe. Those with sarcopenia exhibited lower rectus femoris thickness and slower walking speed (p < .05). Advancing lipedema stage correlated with reduced muscle thickness, weaker handgrip strength, slower gait, and prolonged Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test duration (p < .05). Stage 3 patients demonstrated the highest prevalence of sarcopenia, indicating progressive impairment in muscle mass and functional performance with disease severity (p < .05). No significant associations were found between age or BMI and muscle parameters (p > .05).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is prevalent in women with lower-extremity lipedema and increases with disease stage. Comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment should be integrated into lipedema management to address functional impairment and optimize patient care.