Joint Hypermobility and Associated Factors in Patients With Lipedema

The aim of this observational study is to determine the prevalence of joint hypermobility in female patients with lipedema compared to healthy volunteers. Additionally, the study investigates how the presence of hypermobility in lipedema patients relates to the clinical and ultrasonographic stage of the disease, regional pain severity, pain sensitivity, postural status (such as genu valgum and foot overpronation), quality of life, and physical activity levels. The study includes 65 female patients clinically diagnosed with lipedema and 65 healthy female volunteers matched for age and body mass index.

Inclusion Criteria: * For Lipedema Group: Aged between 18-65 years. Diagnosed with lipedema. Willing to participate in the study. Having a socio-cultural level suitable for study participation. * For Control Group: Aged between 18-65 years. Willing to participate in the study. Having a socio-cultural level suitable for study participation. Exclusion Criteria: * For Lipedema Group: Uncontrolled thyroid dysfunction. Chronic venous insufficiency and/or lymphedema (Stage 4 lipedema). Acute or chronic renal failure. Heart failure. Active cancer or ongoing cancer treatment. Presence of neurological disease. Presence of rheumatological disease. History of liposuction or major surgery for lipedema within the last 6 months. Visual or hearing impairment severe enough to affect study compliance. Illiteracy or cognitive impairment preventing the ability to give written informed consent. * For Control Group: Previous diagnosis of lipedema, lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency. History of rheumatologic, neurologic, endocrinologic, or cardiovascular diseases. Uncontrolled thyroid dysfunction. History of acute or chronic renal failure, heart failure, active cancer, or ongoing cancer treatment. Orthopedic problems affecting lower extremities, trauma, or history of liposuction/major surgery within the last 6 months. Regular use of medications that may affect pain threshold (e.g., systemic corticosteroids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, etc.). Physical barriers affecting pain assessment (algometry, VAS) or postural observation (e.g., severe vision/hearing loss, local skin lesions, amputation, etc.). Cognitive impairment or lack of literacy preventing written informed consent. Psychiatric illness preventing compliance with the study process or communication problems affecting cooperation.