Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)
Lymphoedema is a long term chronic condition that causes the build up of excess fluid, most commonly in the arms and legs, as a result of a failure in effective lymph drainage from tissues. This build up is often due to damage of the lymphatic system and most commonly a result of surgery to remove lymph nodes as part of cancer treatment, known as secondary lymphoedema. Other causes of secondary lymphoedema include damage to lymph as a result of infection and inflammatory conditions (including rheumatoid arthritis, eczema) Obesity, trauma and injury and immobility. Primary lymphoedema is caused by the mutation of genes. This type of lymphoedema can develop at any age but usually starts during infancy, adolescence or early adulthood.
Living with Lymphoedema
There are several adverse physical and emotional side effects of lymphoedema, not least chronic pain and discomfort, distorted limb shape and feelings of tightness, impaired function and decreased flexibility, all of which can be mentally and physically debilitating . Lymphoedema is traditionally treated using Massage Lymph Drainage (MLD) with/or compression garments and it is incredibly exciting to see the outstanding results being shown through the use of Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)
Research suggests that cancer survivors with lymphoedema are more likely to suffer psychological or emotional difficulties, be more disabled and experience a poorer quality of life than survivors without the condition. Improved breast cancer survival rates suggest that 2:3 women survive the disease beyond 20 years. Whilst it is fantastic that there is progress being made in survival rates, it does also mean that there are more people living longer with debilitating side effects, for which there is currently no cure.
An award winning and unique reflexology sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay (Bsc Hons) whilst working in cancer care, has shown that specific reflexology techniques known as RLD stimulates and encourages the drainage of excess lymph fluid from the system with some amazing results in significantly reducing swelling.
Research currently available focusses mainly on secondary lymph drainage for lymphoedema in patients affected by treatment for breast cancer but it has been noted that it can also be beneficial for many conditions associated with the lymphatic system, including:
Arthritis
Asthma
Eczema
Chronic fatigue
Fibromyalgia
ME
Sinus issues
Recurrent headaches and Migraines
Muscular tension
Aches and pains
Pre menstrual syndrome
Click here to visit Sally Kay's RLD website for more information about the research programme.
Sally Kay at the European conference of reflexology
What to expect from an RLD Treatment Session
Depending on the presenting lymphoedema, measurements of both the affected and non affected limb will be taken, allowing evaluation of the excess fluid in the affected limb. The treatment itself will involve approximately 40-45 minutes of deeply relaxing, yet targeted and specific treatment on the lymphatic system through the application of precise and gentle massage movements to specific parts of the feet or hands. Following the treatment, further measurements are taken and any achieved fluid loss calculated and recorded. I would then, if clients wish to, work to form a tailored and specific treatment plan, aimed to deliver the best possible outcome.
To request more information or to book an appointment, please contact Lynsey on enquiries@lynseyknightreflexology or 07534602390