Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is an award winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the Lymphatic reflexes (specific points) on the feet. The aim is to cause an effect on the lymphatic system in the body. RLD is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay, whilst working in Cancer care.

Reflexologists work on the assumption that the organs and systems of the body (e.g. the heart, lungs, digestive, respiratory, lymphatic and immune systems) are reflected on the feet - we refer to this as 'anatomical reflection theory'. The unique RLD sequence developed by Sally Kay reflects the principles of Lymphatic drainage massage (MLD) and Simple Lymph Drainage (MLD and SLD) and supports the flow and drainage of lymph throughout the body - from the neck, across the upper body and arms, lower body, legs, ankles and feet. RLD is performed on the feet, but can also be treated on the client's hands.

RLD was developed originally to support breast cancer patients with secondary lymphoedema. The sequence has since been adapted to support clients living with both primary and secondary lymphoedema and swelling of both the arms and legs.

I will show you selected parts of the RLD sequence (as advised by Sally Kay) for you to practice at home to support your ongoing self-care between treatments.

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition causing interstitial fluid (i.e. between the cells in our body) to build up because of blocked, damaged or absent lymph drainage channels. Primary lymphoedema is hereditary, present at birth, and may arise later in life during significant hormonal changes (e.g. puberty, pregnancy, menopause). Secondary lymphoedema may occur as a result of external factors - e.g. surgery, scar tissue, injury and insect bites.

Cancer related treatments including removal of lymph nodes, vessels and the site of the tumour, ongoing therapies, and the progression of the disease may also cause lymphoedema swelling.

The psychological, emotional and lifelong effects of symptoms may impact relationships, loss of confidence, altered body image, and ability to complete everyday tasks, employment and leisure activities. Finding a supportive regime that works for the individual is important and this may be complementary to your existing therapies (e.g. MLD, SLD).

Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD) (performed on parts of the body) is used to treat conditions other than Lymphoedema. Because RLD is based on the principles of MLD it may also be used similarly to support clients living with the following conditions:

Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue, Sinus problems,

Muscular tension, Asthma, Fibromyalgia,

Migraines, Aches and pains, Eczema,

ME, Headaches, Premenstrual Syndrome

At your initial 90-minute consultation we will take time to develop a RLD treatment plan that is supportive of your particular needs and expectations.

The benefits of reflexology and in particular RLD build over time and packages offering weekly, fortnightly and monthly (maintenance) sessions are available at a discounted cost - Contact.

References:

1. Reflexology Lymph Drainage: Illustrated Step by Step Guide to the Sally Kay Method, 2019.
2. Kay, S., Whatley, J., and Harris, P. (2021). Reflexology for the management of secondary lymphoedema in patients affected by treatment for breast cancer. European Journal of Integrative Medicine Volume 4, Issue 3, Pages 359-360, Sept. 2021.
3. Whatley, J., Street, R., Kay, S., and Harris, P. (2016). Use of reflexology in managing secondary lymphoedema for patients affected by treatments for breast cancer: a pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice Volume 23, May 2016, pages 1-8.
4. Whatley, J., Street, R., Kay, S. (2018). Experiences of breast cancer related lymphoedema and the use of reflexology for managing swelling: A qualitative study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice Volume 32, pages 123-129.
5. www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk