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Lipoedema Study: Why Lipoedema and Trampoline Training Are Your Perfect Match.
Lipedema is a fat distribution disorder in which a disproportionate amount of fat accumulates in the legs, hips, and sometimes also the arms. Contrary to common belief, this is not obesity, meaning excess body weight. Those affected can only do so much to counter this uncontrollable fat distribution. This can cause pain and restrict mobility. But there is an exciting training method that can help: trampoline training! What effect trampoline jumping has on lymphatic flow and to what extent bouncing can contribute to reducing pain and lymphedema – this was tested by physiotherapist and osteopath Rebecca Ruoff in collaboration with the Ortho-Team Luzern in a pilot study.
The Perfect Combination: Lipoedema and Trampoline.
The pilot study investigated how trampoline training affects lymph flow and mobility. Participants with various diagnoses in the field of lipoedema and lymphedema took part in the study. The participants trained regularly on the bellicon mini trampoline, and circumference measurements and examinations were conducted before, during, and after the study period. Circumference measurements showed significant improvements through the training, particularly at the ankle measurement position. Individual participants also showed clear improvements at other measurement points on the legs. However, these were not statistically significant across the entire study group. The strongest change was shown by one participant who, at the end of the study period, had 11 cm less circumference at the ankles and no longer experienced knee pain. The most common feedback from the participants was less pressure pain, a feeling of freedom, and improved mobility.
Overall, the study proved to be highly successful and a promising first step for follow-up studies with more participants and a more targeted training protocol. The results provide initial indications of a reduction in leg circumference through bellicon training. However, further research over a longer period is necessary to confirm these assumptions. Future studies should focus on specific diagnostic areas and more precise reference values.
It is important to stay physically active regularly to keep the lymph flow moving and alleviate symptoms. For this reason, choose a sport that does not cause pain, that you feel comfortable with, and that you enjoy! Joint-friendly activities such as swimming, gentle yoga, aqua jogging, aqua aerobics, aqua cycling, cycling, light fascia training, or walking are recommended – and as you have just learned, training on a trampoline as well. What may initially sound unfamiliar, unusual, or perhaps even painful is actually the perfect companion for fun, variety, and lightness.
Why the Rebounder Belongs in Your Living Room.
- Joint-Friendly Training
The training on the trampoline is very gentle on the joints because the elastic bungees and the jumping mat absorb shocks and impacts. This is particularly beneficial for people with lipoedema, as the tissue is often sensitive, the joints may be sensitive, and the legs may be swollen. The trampoline reduces the pressure on your joints and thus enables effective training without overload and pain. - Improved Lymphatic Drainage
Bouncing on the trampoline creates a gentle, rhythmic movement that stimulates your lymph flow. This can help reduce swelling in lipoedema and promote the transport of fluid and metabolic waste products. Through trampoline training, the lymphatic vessels can be stimulated, which may lead to improved detoxification and drainage of the tissue. - Strengthening of the Muscles
Trampoline training engages a wide range of muscle groups in the body, especially the leg and glute muscles. Regular training strengthens your muscles, which can lead to better stability and support of the affected areas. Stronger muscles can also improve your circulation and reduce the appearance of cellulite. - Fun and Motivation
Training on the trampoline is not only effective but also entertaining. The fun factor of bouncing can help you carry out bellicon training regularly and also want to do it. Regular training sessions on the trampoline can improve your physical fitness and increase overall well-being, which positively affects quality of life and motivation. - Improved Circulation
Bouncing on the trampoline promotes circulation throughout the entire body, including the affected areas. Improved circulation can help reduce swelling, transport nutrients more efficiently, and support the healing process. - Promotion of Coordination
Training on the trampoline requires good body coordination because you have to balance on the unstable surface. Through regular trampoline training, body awareness and coordination can be improved, which can positively affect gait patterns and stability in everyday life.
