Reflexology Lymph Drainage
What is Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)?
RLD is an award-winning reflexology technique that was developed by a reflexologist called Sally Kay (BSc Hons) in the UK when she worked in the area of cancer care. It is a gentle and effective method of reflexology that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet with the aim of improving lymphatic function. RLD is a potentially sustainable solution for the management of lymphoedema. Having trained with Sally Kay, I am an approved RLD practitioner.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a secondary drainage system within our circulatory system. It is made up of a network of tissues, vessels & organs throughout the body that work with our cardiovascular, digestive and immune systems.
- It drains fluid called lymph that has leaked from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream via lymph nodes. The lymph nodes act as filters to stop harmful substances, bacteria, viruses and waste from re-entering the bloodstream.
- Fats and some vitamins are absorbed into the lymphatic system in the gut and it transports these back to the blood system.
- It is an important part of our immune defences and makes cells that help to fight infections. A properly functioning lymphatic system helps us to fend off disease and illness and have good health.
The lymphatic system is not pumped by the heart. It relies mainly on the contraction of surrounding muscles and breathing to help the lymph circulate. In other words, if you are not physically active enough, the lymph can become stagnant resulting in fluid retention. Tension in the body can affect lymphatic flow leading to congestion and pain. Hence stimulating the lymphatic system can be helpful in the treatment of pain.
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is tissue swelling caused by failure of the lymph drainage. It most commonly occurs in the arms or legs. Fluid accumulates as a result of blocked, damaged, or missing lymph vessels or nodes. One of the most common causes of lymphoedema today is cancer surgery and treatments. About 20% of breast cancer survivors will develop secondary lymphoedema of the arm. The main symptom is swelling which can cause jewellery or watches and some clothing to feel tight and uncomfortable. Some other side effects are chronic pain, distorted limb shape, discomfort and tightness in the limb, restricted range of motion and recurring infections. Even carrying out daily tasks such as driving a car can be difficult. As well as this there is often a very real psychological and emotional impact affecting self-confidence & quality of life.
This is a chronic condition which is typically treated using manual lymph drainage massage (MLD), skin care, exercise and compression garments. Wearing these tight sleeves all the time can be uncomfortable and a constant unwelcome reminder of the condition.
Reflexology lymph drainage (RLD) is based on the same principles as traditional manual lymph drainage however the advantage is that the work is performed solely on the feet with no need for the client to remove clothing. In a trial carried out by Sally Kay with women living with lymphoedema, results showed that after 4 weekly sessions of RLD there was a statistically significant reduction in arm swelling. Participants also reported improved self-confidence, quality of life and wellbeing as their condition improved.
