Glossary terms - R

Reflexology

A massage system where manual pressure is applied to specific areas on the feet or (less frequently) hands in order to rebalance 'energy' in the body and stimulate natural healing processes. Works on the theory that all parts of the body are reflected in the feet and hands and that stimulating relevant areas influences their corresponding organs and systems. If in any doubt about your condition, you should consult your doctor.

Rehabilitation

The process of regaining function through active treatment, such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy.

Respite care

Care given to someone for a short period, usually away from their own home, so their family can have a rest from caring for them.

Retinopathy

Condition causing damage to the retina, the area at the back of each eye where images are encoded, most commonly caused by interruption in the blood supply. This may be due to a number of causes including diabetes (in diabetic retinopathy), persistent high blood pressure (in hypertensive retinopathy) and sickle cell disease.

Risk factors

The possible underlying causes (for the stroke) such as smoking, high blood pressure, ethnic group, family history of stroke.

Rupture

Breaking open or bursting; a tear in an organ or tissue; the state of being broken open.