Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD)
RLD is an award winning reflexology technique that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet with the aim of causing an effect on the body's lymphatic system and it helps to reduce swelling within the body.
The unique sequence has been researched and developed by Sally Kay whilst she worked with women who had developed secondary lymphoedema as a result of their breast cancer treatment. The sequence helped reduce the fluid around the affected limb thus reducing the swelling, which helped to improve comfort levels and quality of life and in my experience, making people very relieved and happy!
the lymphatic system
The importance of a healthy lymphatic system can not be underestimated. It's responsible for toxin and waste removal, fighting infections with lymphocytes (white blood cells) and balancing body fluids by removing excess fluids from the circulatory system using a complicated network of drainage channels
Primary lymphoedema is a result of genetic mutations causing a faulty lymphatic system and secondary lymphoedema develops when these channels are damaged by cancer, surgery or radiotherapy. Both conditions affect the body's ability to drain causing the fluid to 'pool' in the limb. This causes swelling which can be painful, uncomfortable and affects the sufferers body image.
There is no cure for lymphoedema. RLD can manage it and can be used for any condition that manual lymphatic drainage may be used. The results of RLD are amazing and measurable RLD case study
what other conditions can RLD support?
It may also be used to alleviate symptoms associated with other conditions that manual lymphatic drainage would treat. Whilst only anecdotal evidence so far, it may be beneficial for people with inflammatory pain and autoimmune conditions .I have clients who have found that RLD helped them manage the symptoms of:
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Chronic fatigue and ME
- Eczema
- Fibromyalgia
- Hayfever (see testimonial below)
- Migraines and Headaches
- Post operative swelling and recovery
- Pregnancy related swelling - (however please check with midwife first to rule out pre-eclampsia as a cause) see the results of one treatment on the very swollen feet of a 37 week pregnant client.
- Sinus problems
So fabulous are the results that I now incorporate elements of the RLD sequence into every foot reflexology treatment that I give. Clients also report that the results last longer than with conventional methods of lymph drainage, the other advantages are that the client remains fully clothed, bar sock removal and the treatment itself is incredibly relaxing.
how often should I have RLD?
For people presenting with a swelling, results can often be seen after one treatment. As the effects of reflexology are cumulative for long lasting results I recommend a course of 4-6 weekly treatments for people suffering swelling and other auto-immune conditions. My clients report that after a course of treatments they often only need a repeat treatment every 1-3 months to keep swelling at bay. Clients also report that the results last longer than with traditional methods and one major advantage over conventional treatments s that patients remain fully clothed and the treatment itself is incredibly relaxing.
This short video explains a bit more about RLD and if you would like to read more about this treatment and its history please click here
