Investigation of Medial Longitudinal Arch and Foot Function in Patients With Lipedema: A Cross-Sectional Study

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the relationship between lipedema, a chronic disorder causing disproportionate fat buildup mainly in the lower limbs, and foot structure and function. It focuses on whether women with lipedema have more joint laxity, hypermobility, and foot abnormalities such as flat feet (pes planus) compared to women without lipedema but with similar age and body mass index. The study uses detailed radiographic and clinical assessments to understand these biomechanical changes and their impact on foot posture and function. Women diagnosed with lipedema and matched control participants with nonspecific foot pain will be assessed in a single session. Both groups will undergo standardized lateral foot X-rays to measure angles that indicate foot arch and alignment. Clinical tools like the Beighton score will measure joint hypermobility, and validated questionnaires will evaluate foot function, pain, and physical activity. All assessments are done once to compare foot structure and function between the groups. Participants will provide demographic and clinical information, including disease duration and comorbidities. The study collects radiographic data, joint mobility scores, and responses to foot function and pain questionnaires. Researchers will analyze this data to identify links between lipedema, joint hypermobility, and foot abnormalities. The primary measures are the foot angles from X-rays, with additional clinical and functional outcomes recorded. The study duration for participants is a single visit.

Investigation of Medial Longitudinal Arch and Foot Function in Patients With Lipedema