RLD self treatment

Following a total hip replacement operation, my whole leg, ankle and foot was so swollen it felt like it might burst! I was bruised all down the leg, and bottom of my foot was completely black and blue, as was the area around my knee where the 'stockings' were cutting into my skin!

After a few days when the swelling was still the same, and being an RLDer, I decided it wouldn't do any harm to try out some hand RLD to try and help release some of the pressure. So I started doing the routine every other day. After just a few days I began to feel a 'trickling' sensation down my operated leg (something that clients have mentioned when I've been treating them, but you ​don't fully understand what they mean until you feel it yourself!)

Each day the swelling rapidly became less and less and the release of pressure was such a joy to feel. Less than 3 weeks after the operation, the operated leg, foot, ankle were back to their 'normal' size. Bruising completely cleared. Surface wound healed. Me, getting around very well (with the use of crutches!) I even managed to get on a bus!

Of course, eventually the swelling would have come down, and the bruising would have disappeared, and my healing/mobility would have improved over time. Also, I am younger than the usual candidate for hip replacement (58yrs). I still have a way to go to heal completely. However, I truly believe that those 20 minute hand RLD sessions were (and continue to be) extremely beneficial in supporting my recovery. Thank you Sally Kay!