What is RLD?

RLD is an award-winning reflexology technique that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay BSc(Hons), whilst working 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. The aim is to cause a stimulation of the lymphatic system in the body. The research results support the theory of reflexology (please see below for research data). It is a potentially sustainable solution for the management of Secondary Lymphedema.

What is the Lymphatic System?

The Lymphatic System is a secondary drainage system within the circulatory system. If system function is impaired due to trauma it cannot clear toxins from the interstitial fluid within the body systems. It is connected directly to the cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems. It is a vital part of the immune system as it clears away toxins from the body. This process is necessary in order for us to feel well and stay healthy. Stimulation of the nerves supplying the feet can help improve blood and lymph circulation and restore energy flow to these systems within the body.

What is Lymphedema?

According to the Irish Cancer Society, every year around 2,600 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. 1 in 10 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Approximately 20% of these patients develop secondary Lymphedema of the arm following treatment. Lymphedema can occur in any limb where there has been damage to the lymph nodes.

Lymphedema is defined as tissue swelling due to the failure of lymph drainage. After breast cancer, research suggests that survivors with lymphedema are more likely to suffer psychological and emotional difficulties. There are unfortunately many adverse physical and emotional side effects of lymphedema such as chronic pain and discomfort, distorted limb shape, a feeling of tightness, impaired function, and lowered flexibility. It makes simple tasks such as driving very uncomfortable.

Traditionally the condition is treated by manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) together with/or compression garments. This can improve the flow of lymph but the tight bands are uncomfortable for most wearers. Improved breast cancer survival rates suggest that approximately 2:3 women survive the disease beyond 20 years. This means that more people are living longer with this debilitating side effect for which there is currently no cure.

Relief through Reflexology:

Through an award-winning and unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay, this reflexology technique has been shown to stimulate and encourage the draining of excess lymph fluid from the body. It is based on the practice of traditional massage lymph drainage (MLD) used in most outpatient breast cancer clinics for the treatment of secondary lymphedema. 

The award-winning initial study involved women who had lived with lymphedema for between 3 and 10 years and showed a reduction in swelling of between 36% and 84%. This was after 4 reflexology treatments at weekly intervals. Participants reported feeling more confident and a general sense of well-being as their condition improved. *Please refer to the link at the bottom of the page for full details.

The RLD Treatment

Depending on the severity of the presenting lymphoedema, we will first take measurements of both the affected and non-affected limb in order to evaluate the excess fluid in the affected limb. This is followed with a specific foot reflexology treatment, focusing on the lymphatic system. This treatment is non-invasive and involves precise, gentle massage movements on parts of the feet. You may feel that some points are more tender than others on the feet. It is also normal to feel a tingling sensation in the swollen limb affected by lymphedema. Each treatment should last from 30 to 60 minutes. After each reflexology session, a further set of measurements are taken and from this data, we are then able to calculate the fluid loss achieved. We will then discuss a treatment plan that suits each individual client’s requirement aimed at delivering the best possible outcome.