Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage

Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is an award winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet. The aim is to cause an effect on the lymphatic system in the body. It is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay, whilst working in Cancer Care. The results appear to support the theory of reflexology. 

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 lympheodema are more likely to suffer psychological and emotional difficulties, be more disabled, and experience a poorer quality of life than survivors without the condition. This means that more people are living longer with this debilitating side effect for which there is currently no cure. 

Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) mimics the same drainage protocols of Manual Lymphatic drainage massage. But were MLD uses light gentle massage to encourage lymph flow, RLD uses the stimulation of reflex points in the feet. 

Lymphatic drainage massage (MLD) is used to treat conditions other than lymphoedema, and RLD may be used similarly. 
RLD may be useful with the following conditions other than Lymphoedema

Arthritis Asthma Eczema

Chronic fatigue  Fibromyalgia ME

Sinus problems Migraines  Head aches

Muscular tension  Aches and pains   Premenstrual Syndrome

How does RLD differ to a more generic reflexology treatment?

A standard reflexology therapy treatment aims to treat the whole body to bring about a state were the body has achieved a state of homeostasis, or simply put a balance. When the body is in a state of homeostasis it helps the body to heal itself. It brings about calmness and a feeling of wellbeing.

Reflexology lymph drainage therapy works primarily on the lymphatic system to encourage lymph flow by clearing blockages. This normally occurs after Cancer surgery when the diseased the lymph nodes are removed. RLD has been shown to be very successful at treating lympheodema and reducing swelling. The therapy is targets a specific part of the body to achieve reduced lymph at a site in the body or limb.  This will also give the patient a great sense of wellbeing.  

‘M’ Technique® Therapy – The Touch for fragile clients

The Jane Buckle ‘M’ Technique is a registered method of gentle stroking movements done to a set repetitive pattern.  It is suitable for fragile patients close to their passing and in palliative care.  Registered and patented in 1998 the technique has been taught in the USA since 1996, the UK since 2004.The technique is different to massage in that:

. The pressure of the touch remains the same throughout and never changes.

. There is a set sequence of movements which is the same for every client.

. There is a fixed number of strokes for each movement which is 3

The ‘M’ Technique can be can be carried out on a clothed body and can be used with someone in a wheel chair. Just giving ‘M’ to one hand can achieve measurable effects and the technique’s simplicity means it is easy to teach to parents and Carers. The fact that it is always done the same makes it useful for research.

The Technique can be used in situations when conventional massage may not be appropriate such as:

• Breathlessness. (b) Hypertension  (c) Deep vein thrombosis  (d) Immediate post-operatively

(e) Some Cancers  (f) End of life palliative care.  (g) MND Motor Neurones Disease

The ‘M’ Technique is recognized as part of holistic nursing care in many hospices in the UK. And it was the therapy that I used extensively during my time working as a Complementary Therapist at a Hospice. It was very helpful and loved by patients who received this therapy.