Lymphatic drainage reflexology
Reflexology Lymph Drainage, or RLD, is a technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet. It is a unique therapy that has been backed up by thorough quality research by Sally Kay BSc (Hons) whilst working in Cancer Care. Sally was awarded the Federation of Holistic Therapies Excellence in Practice Award in 2012 for research and development into Reflexology Lymph Drainage. For further details about the research supporting RLD visit Sally Kay's website.
HOW DOES RLD WORK?
The lymphatic system is the body’s cleanser—filtering toxins, supporting immunity, and reducing inflammation. Stress, poor circulation, and sluggish lymph flow can lead to fluid retention, fatigue, and weakened defences. Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD) offers a soothing, non-invasive way to reactivate this vital system—starting from your feet.
Who is RLD for?
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.
Although RLD was developed to help breast cancer patients suffering with Lymphodeama, it is also used to treat the following conditions:
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Post operative swelling
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Hormonal imbalances – PMS, menopause-related fluid retention
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Postpartum recovery -reduces swelling and supports healing
