Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)
What is Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)?
Reflexology Lymph Drainage training is a clinical evidence based, ground breaking reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet. It appears to benefit cancer patients who experience lymphoedema (swelling of the arm) following medical intervention. After breast cancer, RLD may help manage the symptoms.
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.
During the appointment, measurements will be taken of the affected limbs and then a very relaxing reflexology based treatment will be given. This treatment involves lots of wonderful sweeping massage techniques. Afterwards the measurements will be repeated so that any reduced volume will be apparent.
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.
Although the technique was originally developed to treat lymphoedema of the arm it is believed to benefit lymphoedema elsewhere in the body.
The NHS Local Health Board Research Ethics Committee (REC) has agreed ethical approval for the proposed application, to conduct further research into Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD).
If you would like more information about how we can help you then please call us for a confidential chat and to book and appointment on 07531 191 688
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Jeni
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