Slim or curvy, very few women are spared from cellulite. Whether it’s fibrous, adipose or aqueous cellulite, its appearance is common — but it can sometimes become painful to the touch. When that happens, it’s natural to wonder why.
Why can cellulite be painful?
Cellulite can become sensitive to the touch when it is fibrous or aqueous. As a general rule, it only becomes painful at stage 3 of the Nürnberger-Muller scale — a tool used to identify the different stages of cellulite. At stage 1, cellulite is only visible when the skin is pinched. At stage 2, it is visible when standing but not when lying down. At the final stage, cellulite is visible both standing and lying down.
It helps to understand what cellulite actually is in order to grasp why it can sometimes be painful. Cellulite is an inflammation of adipose tissue, and there are several reasons why it can cause discomfort.
Aqueous cellulite is always accompanied by water retention. This type of cellulite can therefore also contribute to poor blood circulation. Water retention amplifies the inflammatory process by preventing the elimination of toxins from the tissues — and this localised inflammation is what triggers the sensation of pain.
Fibrous cellulite, on the other hand, develops when glycation of collagen occurs — that is, when glucose (sugar) binds to collagen fibres. When the collagen fibres surrounding fat cells harden and thicken, fibrosis sets in. This is an inflammatory process that is also associated with pain.
What are the symptoms of painful cellulite?
When cellulite develops, the first sign is usually a change in skin texture and the appearance of an orange-peel effect. The area then gradually becomes more sensitive to the touch. Initially, cellulite is only painful when pinched; over time, the affected area becomes tender and painful even without pressure. Cellulite that feels hard to the touch is typically long-established — and this is generally the hallmark of painful cellulite.
The discomfort caused by cellulite can be more pronounced in certain positions, due to the pressure placed on the affected area. Some people experience more pain when sitting, lying down, or during specific movements. While pain can occur wherever cellulite is present, the majority of those affected report painful cellulite on the thighs.
Cellulite is more than just an aesthetic concern
Cellulite is not considered a medical condition in itself. However, it can lead to health issues with varying degrees of impact. The discomfort caused by its orange-peel texture, bumps, or skin laxity can certainly be a significant source of frustration — but cellulite goes beyond physical appearance. It can be the starting point for longer-term health concerns. Aqueous cellulite, for example, causes water retention, which is often responsible for a feeling of heavy legs that can worsen over time. Water retention can also lead to circulatory problems.
As for fibrous cellulite, it is responsible for fibrosis, inflammation and persistent pain.
Painful cellulite can also be a symptom of an underlying health issue. It is often a sign of significant excess weight — and as we know, excess body fat can give rise to a wide range of health problems.
How to get rid of painful cellulite?
When cellulite is genuinely painful, it is important to consult a doctor. They will be able to assess any health risks and recommend an appropriate treatment to address the discomfort.
Many solutions can help reduce painful cellulite. A healthy diet is the foundation of any anti-cellulite approach: prioritise foods rich in fibre and antioxidants, and make sure to drink water regularly. A balanced diet should also be paired with sufficient, regular physical activity. Finally, draining and anti-cellulite massages can deliver excellent results — particularly for painful cellulite on the thighs.
How to eliminate cellulite: all the solutions available
Different types of cellulite can be responsible for pain. But in every case, treatments exist to address painful cellulite and prevent further health concerns.
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