Reflexology Lymph Drainage
Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD) is an award winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet through specific protocols. It is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay BSc (Hons) developed through clinical practise whilst working in cancer care outpatients clinics.
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Many of the clients had been treated for breast cancer and consequently suffered secondary lymphoedema. Complaints relating to lymphoedema often included, a swollen arm, painful shoulder, uncomfortable underarm swelling, weakness and problems with every day living.
Lymphatic drainage massage (MLD) is used to treat this condition and now Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD) on the feet may be used similarly.
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Utilising RLD, this form of Reflexology targets the lymphatic system which relies on bodily movement for the fluid to move. The key difference between MLD and RLD is that instead of a massage by a remedial massage therapist, RLD is discreet and focuses solely on the feet and/or hands by encouraging the flow of fluid through the manipulation of lymphatic reflex points.
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in tissues in the body and usually affects the arm or leg however it can develop in other parts of the body. It is due to failure in the lymphatic system where normal lymph drainage cannot occur.
Breast Cancer​ is the most common cancer in the UK. According to Cancer Research UK (2011), the lifetime risk of developing it in the UK is 1:8 for women and 1:1014 for men. Approximately 20% of these patients develop secondary lymphoedema of the arm following treatment for breast cancer.
Lymphoedema is defined as tissue swelling due to the failure of lymph drainage.
After breast cancer a person may experience psychological or emotional difficulties due to altered body image, and a swollen limb can exacerbate this. Research suggests that survivors with lymphoedema are more likely to suffer psychological and emotional difficulties, be more disabled, and experience a poorer quality of life than survivors without the condition. Improved breast cancer survival rates suggest that approximately 2:3 women survive the disease beyond 20 years. This means that more people are living longer with this debilitating side effect for which there is currently no cure.
Treatment
Prior to your RLD treatment, where possible we begin by taking a few measurements of the affected, swollen limb/s with a tape measure and record the volume of fluid. The RLD treatment then takes place on the feet (and/or hands) and the limb is then re-measured. This way we can see and accurately track the difference in fluid volume. This is particularly useful to assess the progression of and improvement in a client’s condition over time.
RLD can be used as an effective tool alongside your compression garments. A course of 4 - 6 weekly treatments are recommended followed with regular monthly RLD treatments as part of the ongoing management of the condition. This can then be reduced to fortnightly and monthly as ongoing maintenance and management of the affected lymphatic system.
Clients report less discomfort from the reduction of fluid and an increase in energy.
RLD can help for other conditions:
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Fatigue/ME
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Fibromyalgia
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Arthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Autoimmune Conditions
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MS
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Oedema
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PMS
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Post surgery
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Sinus Issues
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Headaches & Migraines
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Inflammatory Conditions
Benefits of RLD:
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Boost immune system
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De-tox the body
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Increase energy
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Balance the body’s internal system
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Improve circulation
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Improve sleep
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Improve cognitive issues
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Ease pain due to inflammation
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Speed recovery
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Improve symptoms of IBS
For more information on Reflexology Lymph Drainage:
Research
​RLD Thermal Imanging Research
​Cancer Research UK
​History
Research
Multiple Sclerosis
Reflexology treatment relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled study
Conclusion: Specific reflexology treatment was of benefit in alleviating motor; sensory and urinary symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients.
Comparing the effects of reflexology and relaxation on fatigue in women with multiple sclerosis
Conclusion: Reflexology is effective and can be recommended.
A comparison of the effects of reflexology and relaxation on the psychological symptoms in women with multiple sclerosis
Conclusion: Reflexology is effective in relieving anxiety, stress and depression
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Parkinson's Disease
Can reflexology maintain or improve the well-being of people with Parkinson’s Disease?
