Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. 20% of breast cancer patients will develop secondary lymphoedema of the arm, post breast cancer surgery.
Although RLD was originally developed for women who had secondary lymphedema ,due to breast surgery for breast cancer treatment. RLD is now being used in many other areas, Please read on to find out a little more about how it may be able to help you, how it was developed and how it works
Lymphoedema is due to tissue swelling from the lymphatic system not draining efficiently or completely, this may be primary or secondary such as post surgery.. This can result in pain, movement restriction and in some cases the need to wear a pressure garment to encourage lymphatic drainage, all of which may inflame emotional and psychological difficulties on top of the trauma already experienced. RLD is an award-winning innovative therapy technique which was developed in 2010 through clinical practice by a Welsh reflexologist named Sally Kay BSc (Hons). It has been through her passion and the passion of the head of research (Judith Whatley) that it has now been researched over a number of years, and is now evidence-based, with additional funds provided for further study at Cardiff Metropolitan University, with NHS backing.
Reflexology lymphatic drainage (RLD) is proving to be effective in other situations and conditions,and has been found to be on a par with manual lymphatic drainage in many situations, and has been used similarly.
Clinical experience and ongoing research by qualified reflexologists all over the U.K, and as far away as Canada, China and The USA, through a growing bank of case studies have provided anecdotal evidence showing fantastic results in areas, such as:
Post-operative recovery (reducing swelling and providing a speedier recovery)
Fibromyalgia, Chronic fatigue syndrome, M.E, rheumatoid arthritis (and many more autoimmune conditions)
Lipoedema (as well as lymphoedema)
Digestive issues, such as IBS, colitis, etc
Asthma
Eczema
Sinus issues
Migraine & headache
Poor sleep
RLD ( Reflexology lymphatic drainage) focuses on the lymphatic system. In order to first create space for the lymph, so lymph can be moved around the body, almost by creating a vacuum (as the lymphatic system unlike the cardiovascular system has no pump) mobilising the lymph through the lymphatic system subsequently enhancing the body's own routes of elimination.
One of the many benefits of RLD is that it does not always have to work over the area of concern, as I only work on the feet. You also do not have to undress, as it will only require access to the feet and ankle area (unless leg or arm measurements are required in cases of leg or arm lymphoedema)
I will often ask your permission to photograph your problematic area, or take measurements as a way of evidencing treatment.
If you feel RLD can be of benefit to you or would like to discuss it further - so you can ask any questions you may have, and I can asses you for contraindications, please get in touch through the "Contact me" area on the website. Initially, weekly sessions are advised.