Dercum's Disease: what it is and how we help

Dercum's disease at a glance

Dercum's disease, also called adiposis dolorosa, is a rare condition in which painful fatty lumps (lipomas) develop under the skin, most often on the arms, legs and trunk. It is more common in women and often begins between 35 and 50. Alongside pain, many people experience fatigue, swelling and low mood. There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed.

Symptoms of Dercum's disease

• Multiple painful fatty lumps under the skin
• Pain that can be burning, aching or sharp
• Swelling and easy bruising
• Fatigue, poor sleep and difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety or low mood linked to chronic pain

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis is made by a doctor, sometimes with a dermatologist or specialist. Treatment focuses on pain relief, which may include medication, lidocaine treatment or surgical removal or liposuction of problem lipomas. Supportive therapies can help with swelling and comfort.

How we help in Chiswick

• Manual lymphatic drainage: small studies and patient reports suggest gentle lymphatic work can ease pain and swelling.
• Compression therapy: used carefully for comfort and swelling where suitable.
• Physiotherapy: gentle, paced exercise to maintain strength without flares.
• Acupuncture: an option for chronic pain management.
• Psychological support: for living with a long-term painful condition.

What does the evidence say?

Research on Dercum's disease is limited because it is rare. Most evidence for lymphatic therapy comes from small studies and case series. We are open about this and focus on comfort, function and quality of life.

Dercum's disease or lipoedema?

The two are sometimes confused and can occur together. Lipoedema causes a symmetrical build-up of fat, usually in the legs and sometimes the arms, sparing the hands and feet, and the tissue may be tender and bruise easily. Dercum's disease involves painful fatty lumps that can appear anywhere on the body. A specialist can help tell them apart.

What causes Dercum's disease?

The cause is not known. It sometimes runs in families, is much more common in women and often begins around the menopause, which suggests genetic and hormonal factors. Researchers are also studying the roles of the nervous system, inflammation and the lymphatic system.

Living with Dercum's disease

Because it is rare, many people wait a long time for a diagnosis and feel dismissed. Keeping a record of symptoms, flares and what helps can make appointments more productive. Gentle, regular movement such as walking, swimming or water exercise is often easier than high-impact activity, and support groups can reduce isolation.

What to expect at Omnia

We begin with a careful history of your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment so far, and what affects your pain and energy. Treatment starts gently, often with manual lymphatic drainage using very light pressure, and adjusts to how your body responds. We can include paced exercise and psychological support, and we work alongside your GP or specialist.

What you can do at home

• Pace activity and plan rest
• Keep gently active to support lymphatic flow
• Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing
• Connect with others through Lipoedema UK or rare disease networks

Related: lymphoedema. Omnia Lifestyle, Chiswick W4. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.