Investigation of Medial Longitudinal Arch and Foot Function in Patients With Lipedema: A Cross-Sectional Study
Lipedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder that commonly leads to joint laxity, hypermobility, and functional limitations, yet its impact on foot morphology has not been systematically examined. This case-control study aims to investigate whether patients with lipedema exhibit a higher prevalence of generalized joint hypermobility and foot structural abnormalities-specifically pes planus-compared with age- and BMI-matched controls. Using radiographic measurements (Meary angle and calcaneal inclination angle), clinical hypermobility assessment, and validated functional scales, the study seeks to determine the relationship between lipedema, hypermobility, and foot function.
• Female participants
• Age 18 years or older
• Able to read and write (literacy requirement)
• Availability of bilateral lateral foot radiographs obtained within the past 1 year in the hospital PACS system
• Willing and able to provide written and verbal informed consent
⁃ Additional eligibility criteria for Lipedema Group
⁃ \- Clinical diagnosis of lipedema according to Halk and Damstra criteria.
⁃ Additional eligibility criteria for Control group:
• Female patients presenting with nonspecific foot pain
• Similar age and BMI range as the lipedema group
• No clinical diagnosis or suspicion of lipedema