The feet support the rest of the body throughout the day and consequently cover a lot of ground. Tired, aching feet receive a number of benefits from foot massage, from stimulating them so you can put them back to work to relaxing them so you can put them up in peace. Practice foot massage at home, or consult a professional massage therapist. It is relatively easy to practice it on yourself, but there are situations when you should avoid foot massage or practice with caution.
Feet
Mary Atkinson writes in "Hand and Foot Massage" that the foot is made up of 26 bones and a number of muscles. The foot also has several thousand nerve endings. Muscles in the foot allow the foot to bend, stretch and move, in addition to supporting the body to maintain balance. Because the feet are responsible for supporting the rest of the body, too, it is only natural that they become tired, sore and sometimes painful. Massage helps restore movement and vitality to your feet.
History
According to Denise Whichello Brown in "Teach Yourself Massage," Greek physician Hippocrates wrote in the fifth century B.C. that massage, or "rubbing," helps to bind or loosen a joint, depending on the type of massage technique. Various cultures have practiced massage for centuries on all parts of the body.
Reflexology
Reflexology is the application of pressure on various points of the feet in order to restore health, according to Nicola Hall, author of "Reflexology: A Way to Better Health." Practitioners often combine reflexology with foot massage, and it is gaining in popularity. The pressure points on the feet connect to all other parts of the body, and the gently applied pressure on these points re-balances the workings of the body.
Techniques
Foot massage features various techniques, such as effleurage, stroking, tapping and kneading. The goal of the massage, whether to stimulate, relax or relieve pain, determines the technique you use. Use the stroking technique for a relaxing massage and effleurage to boost blood circulation. Kneading reduces pain and stiffness in the joints. Use tapping for a more stimulating massage to warm up the body, stimulate nerves and strengthen muscles. You can also use aromatherapy oils and lotions to obtain additional benefits from a foot massage. Consult a qualified professional for instruction in massage techniques and the use of aromatherapy oils.
Benefits
Foot massage produces a number of benefits, not just to the foot, but to the rest of the body, too. According to Atkinson, a fast-paced, vigorous foot massage boosts energy levels, whereas a slower, more gentle massage relaxes the body. Foot massage increases the flow of blood and lymph, which reduces muscle stiffness, aches and pains. It also improves joint flexibility. A foot massage also warms up cold feet.
Cautions
Pay attention to any contraindications or cautions if practicing foot massage on pregnant women, children or the elderly. A reduced massage time may be appropriate for these groups of people. Avoid foot massage if there are diseases of the foot present, such as athlete's foot, or if you are feeling unwell. Check for cautions if using a particular essential oil in an aromatherapy blend with foot massage.
References
- "Teach Yourself Massage"; Denise Whichello Brown; 1996
- "Hand and Foot Massage"; Mary Atkinson; 2001
- "Reflexology: A Way to Better Health"; Nicola Hall; 2000
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