Massage is frequently regarded as one of the most effective methods for releasing stress and restoring a sense of well-being to the body. However, this is not its only virtue. Massages, in fact, have surprising roles, applications, and possibilities: they may be as soothing as they are beneficial, even for the feet. Foot reflexology or foot massage, both of which are based on Chinese medicine, can help people with painful feet. The benefits of foot massages :
What is the point of getting a foot massage?
Most people, including those who are deemed sedentary, are estimated to walk between 4000 and 6000 steps each day. Jobs that demand us to spend a significant amount of time sitting at a desk, on the other hand, put our feet to the test. Some examples include the sensation of heavy legs, feet crushed in shoes, and restlessness in the legs.
Foot reflexology is a relaxing and beneficial method of foot treatment. Each point of the foot relates to an organ in Chinese medicine. The pressure points on which the massage therapist will operate will relax the foot and have an impact on the body’s overall well-being.
In a foot massage, the massage therapist will use soft, gradual motions from the heel to the toes, on both the top and bottom of the foot, with varying intensity.
This exercise promotes:
– improving blood circulation;
– the release of tension;
– the reduction of pain, even those caused by plantar fasciitis or heel spur;
– the relief of certain tensions in the body.
It should be mentioned that, for healthy feet without lesions, foot massage can be conducted by the patient themselves, using a tennis ball rubbed beneath the foot, according to the health professional’s instructions.
Whom should I contact for a foot massage?
A foot massage can be done for a variety of reasons and by a variety of specialists.
You can see a physical therapist for rehabilitation or to rectify an imbalance, and they will focus on your foot’s musculoskeletal balance and mobility.
An orthotherapist is a fantastic choice for improving joint mobility and balance. He or she can massage you on their own, or they can engage you in the process by asking you to execute resistant movements to gently work the muscles.
Finally, for relaxation, a massage conducted by a licensed massage therapist will provide you with a calming treatment using touch and pressure techniques.
What is the safest way to reduce foot pain?
Self-massage can help relieve aching feet in the comfort of your own home.
Sitting in a chair is the ideal method to achieve this. Place one foot on the floor and the other on the opposite knee to maintain balance. To make the motions more fluid, a lotion should be applied to the surface to be massaged.
Start by sliding your fingers between your toes to relieve tension in your foot, then gradually slide your hand up towards the outside of the foot as if stretching the toes. Massage the sole of the foot with the other hand, using circular strokes and apply moderate pressure on the top of the foot with the thumb.
A ball put beneath the foot can also be used to massage the feet when standing or sitting. The ball is rolled around the sole of the foot in this instance to massage areas of tension or minor discomfort.
These exercises should, of course, be done under the supervision of a health practitioner, and persons who have had a foot injury should consult with their doctor before beginning.
See a podiatrist to benefit from a foot massage
A consultation with a podiatrist will help you to discover the source of your pain and the best treatment options for it, as well as the best massage technique to apply. Check out the list of our clinics to make an appointment.
