I am delighted to offer specialist RLD - Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage treatments as part of my work as a Clinical Reflexologist.  RLD is an award winning foot reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet.  This treatment is very gentle and relaxing.  Prior to your first appointment, I will arrange a telephone call with you to determine your medical history and to discuss whether you may need to consult with your medical practitioner.  Reflexology works very well alongside conventional medicine and is frequently used in NHS and hospice settings. At your first appointment I will complete a full consultation form with you and we will discuss your history and determine your treatment protocol.  It is very helpful to use a measurement chart so that we can establish a baseline at the start of the treatments, it is also equally useful to determine how you feel at every treatment.  If you want to know more about this treatment please contact me to discuss.

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RLD - Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage research has been published in British Journal of Community Nursing, Vol. 25, No. Sup10 Clinical Focus, 'Using thermal Imaging research to measure changes in breast cancer related lymphoedema during reflexology'

https://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk/rld-thermal-imaging-research.html

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Lymphoedema is a chronic condition and can affect many people in many ways.  If lymph nodes are removed the lymphatic flow will be affected and subsequent Lymphoedema can occur.  Over time, the build up may cause a hardening of the tissue fibres and this may pose an increased risk of infection, people frequently describe pain and restriction of usual movement.  Symptoms can build up over time, and some people may experience a build up of swelling over the day.  The physical symptoms can really impact on day to day living and quality of life,  and also affect emotional and psychological wellbeing.  

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• Primary Lymphoedema is caused by an 'intrinsic hereditary congenital defect of the lymphatic system'. It may present itself during the early years or during times of normal change.  

• Secondary Lymphoedema is caused by an 'extrinsic factor, damage to the lymphatic system'.  This may be caused by many reasons, eg surgery and scar tissue, radiation or trauma from injury.  Any damage to the lymphatic system may lead to an excessive build up of interstitial fluid.  Cancer and subsequent cancer treatments, which involve surgery and sometimes the removal of lymph nodes, may cause damage to the lymph vessels and surrounding tissues. 

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Some of the known side effects are described in Sally Kay's website https://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk

Everyone is unique and their own experiences of lymphoedema whether primary or secondary, may differ.  Clients I work with describe some or all of the following:

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• Pain and heaviness in the affected limb

• Loss of confidence and impact on day to day activities

• Anxiety and depression

• Fibrosis

• Dry skin

• Acute inflammatory issues

• Impaired mobility

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Sally Kay, Reflexologist and found of RLD states that 'together with a self care daily routine, treatment of lymphoedema is known as Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT), such as skin care, exercise, compression and manual lymphatic drainage.