Ringwood & Salisbury
A holistic way to improving your health.
Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)
RLD is an amazing treatment to help reduce lymphoedema and was developed 15 years ago by Sally Kay, whom I trained with. Sally researched and developed the award-winning Reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating lymphatic reflexes on the feet.
Lymphoedema is defined as tissue swelling due to the failure of lymph drainage and there is no cure for this. Side effects can be physiological, with pain, heaviness and aching, limb distortion, impaired function, weakness and reduced mobility or range of movement, decreased elasticity and mobility of skin, fibrosis, dry skin and recurring episodes of cellulitis. There are also many psychological side effects with anxiety, depression and loss of confidence being linked to an altered body image and feeling uncomfortable in certain clothes. Managing lymphoedema can help prevent it from getting worse. This treatment regime has particular success working with patients who had breast cancer, specifically breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) helping to reduce swelling with visual changes on how clothes and watch straps fit.
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Using Reflexology to stimulate the lymphatic drainage system can help shed excess water weight within the body which can improve movement, creating a better quality of life. It can help you to feel lighter, less bloated and boost the appearance of the skin, with regular treatments improvements to symptoms can be sustained.
Secondary to this when lymphatic drainage is functioning optimally, you may feel able to exercise again as there will be less pain and increased mobility, which in turn will have a positive impact on your physical and mental health.
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RLD results are similar to Massage for Lymph Drainage (MLD) which was developed around 80 years ago, and yet the only requirement of RLD is taking your shoes and socks off. MLD is used to treat conditions other than lymphoedema and RLD can be used similarly.
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Lymph drainage can also help support people with inflammatory and autoimmune disorders with benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and ME. Trials are currently being carried out for Long Covid. When the Lymphatic System is not working properly you can feel lethargic and sluggish carrying the extra fluid and toxins, RLD helps the body to eliminate the excess promoting increased energy which in turn can help improve quality of life.
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We can discuss your needs as to whether a stand-alone RLD treatment or a bespoke Reflexology session incorporating RLD would be most beneficial for your needs.