RLD - Reflexology lymphatic drainage
The lymphatic system consists of nodes (glands) that are connected by a network of vessels. Fluid (lymph) surrounding body tissues usually drains into lymph vessels but in certain circumstances it can build up.
Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is a gentle form of foot (or hand) reflexology that aims to stimulate the function of the lymphatic system and drain excess fluid (2,3). This specialised technique has gained both national and international awards and was originally developed by Sally Kay, to support those with lymphoedema caused by cancer treatment. In addition, as the lymphatic system interacts with three other body systems (cardiovascular system, digestive system and the immune system), this type of reflexology can help support the individual as a whole, with the aim of bringing better wellbeing for the client, as shown by Cancer Research UK research findings (3). Clinical experience and further evidence from an ever growing body of case studies suggests RLD may be useful for clients with auto-immune disorders and other inflammatory conditions, ranging from IBS, arthritis, hormone related oedema, migraines allergies and post-operative recovery.
I am fully qualified and experienced in the RLD technique. This can be a stand alone treatment on either hands or feet, can be added to a standard reflexology treatment to last 90mins, or incorporated into the standard session length with less treatment time spent on other reflexes. In addition, as I use only organic treatment mediums at Sole Therapy, which also helps protect the immune system by not adding to the environmental assaults caused by exposure to artificial substances/chemicals.
RLD was initially developed for people suffering with lymphoedema. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and approximately 20% of those with the condition will develop secondary lymphoedema. Research evidence show a statistically significant reduction fluid in these individuals. Evidence includes:
Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is a gentle form of foot (or hand) reflexology that aims to stimulate the function of the lymphatic system and drain excess fluid (2,3). This specialised technique has gained both national and international awards and was originally developed by Sally Kay, to support those with lymphoedema caused by cancer treatment. In addition, as the lymphatic system interacts with three other body systems (cardiovascular system, digestive system and the immune system), this type of reflexology can help support the individual as a whole, with the aim of bringing better wellbeing for the client, as shown by Cancer Research UK research findings (3). Clinical experience and further evidence from an ever growing body of case studies suggests RLD may be useful for clients with auto-immune disorders and other inflammatory conditions, ranging from IBS, arthritis, hormone related oedema, migraines allergies and post-operative recovery.
I am fully qualified and experienced in the RLD technique. This can be a stand alone treatment on either hands or feet, can be added to a standard reflexology treatment to last 90mins, or incorporated into the standard session length with less treatment time spent on other reflexes. In addition, as I use only organic treatment mediums at Sole Therapy, which also helps protect the immune system by not adding to the environmental assaults caused by exposure to artificial substances/chemicals.
RLD was initially developed for people suffering with lymphoedema. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and approximately 20% of those with the condition will develop secondary lymphoedema. Research evidence show a statistically significant reduction fluid in these individuals. Evidence includes:
- Research using thermal imaging in patients with cancer related lymphoedema indicated a loss of volume in the affected arm, which continued to decrease over 24 hours (1)
- Research findings of a significant reduction in the volume of the affected arm was identified at follow-up compared to baseline. This reduction in volume appeared to be maintained for more than six months (2)
- Cancer Research UK findings that RLD swelling reduced in everyone who took part, with the women with the most swelling having the largest reduction, the largest loss of fluid was after the 1st reflexology session with smaller losses at treatments 2, 3 and 4, Women said swelling and pain levels improved after treatment and reported their general well being was better (3)
In addition participants experienced other benefits, saying (reference 5):
“I feel like I have got my arm back”
“My fingers are more flexible, I’m able now to grip objects and make a fist”
“My right arm is much lighter now. I had a lot of fluid at a pocket underarm and this too has lessened. Everything I struggled with, clothes, hobbies and driving are no longer a problem, Not embarrassed to take a long sleeved cardigan off and wear short or sleeveless blouses, which has given my confidence back”
1. Using thermal imaging to measure changes in breast cancer-related lymphoedema during reflexology. Whatley, J & Kay, S. 2020. British Journal of Community Nursing, Vol 25, No. Sup10
2. Use of reflexology in managing secondary lymphoedema or patients affected by treatments for breast cancer: A feasibility study. Whatley, J et al. 2016. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
3. A study looking at reflexology to manage lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment. 2014 Cancer Research UK
4. https://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk/rld-training1.html
5. Reflexology for the management of secondary lymphoedema in patients affected by treatment of breast cancer. An exploratory study. 2011, Kay, S. Harris, P. and Whatley, J.
“I feel like I have got my arm back”
“My fingers are more flexible, I’m able now to grip objects and make a fist”
“My right arm is much lighter now. I had a lot of fluid at a pocket underarm and this too has lessened. Everything I struggled with, clothes, hobbies and driving are no longer a problem, Not embarrassed to take a long sleeved cardigan off and wear short or sleeveless blouses, which has given my confidence back”
1. Using thermal imaging to measure changes in breast cancer-related lymphoedema during reflexology. Whatley, J & Kay, S. 2020. British Journal of Community Nursing, Vol 25, No. Sup10
2. Use of reflexology in managing secondary lymphoedema or patients affected by treatments for breast cancer: A feasibility study. Whatley, J et al. 2016. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
3. A study looking at reflexology to manage lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment. 2014 Cancer Research UK
4. https://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk/rld-training1.html
5. Reflexology for the management of secondary lymphoedema in patients affected by treatment of breast cancer. An exploratory study. 2011, Kay, S. Harris, P. and Whatley, J.
