The health benefits of foot massage

If your feet are sore after a busy day, foot massage can relieve the pain. But massage is not just about making people feel good. Research has shown that foot massage also has health benefits.

Even a brief foot massage can relieve stress and uplift your spirits. This is a good thing because reducing stress and increasing energy can increase your likelihood of making healthy choices such as exercise and a healthy diet.

But how does massage achieve all of this? It can activate your nervous system, thereby increasing feel good chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins. A study shows that people who receive foot massage after appendectomy experience reduced pain and use fewer painkillers.

But that's not all. Foot massage can promote blood circulation, help heal and maintain muscle and tissue health. This is especially important if you have health problems such as diabetes that lead to poor blood circulation or nerve damage.

Rubbing your feet can also give you the opportunity to check for other issues such as sores, corns, and toenails. If your blood circulation is poor, it is a good idea to check for ulcers in your feet.

How to do foot massage for oneself
Professional massage is not cheap. Fortunately, you can get the same benefits for free at home, either by doing it yourself or asking your partner for help. The most easily painful area is easily accessible.

Moderate pressure massage is safe and effective for most people with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and long-term pain. You can also consider getting your first massage from a professional masseur. Looking for a masseur certified by the American Society of Massage Therapists or the American Massage Therapy Association. If you have had surgery on your feet, please consult your doctor or podiatrist first to see if foot massage is suitable for you.

Here are some gentle care tips for your most tense areas:

Step 1 Sitting on a chair or bed, place one foot on the other thigh. If you like, you can use a small piece of lotion or oil (such as coconut oil or Moroccan nut oil) to help your fingers move smoothly on the skin.

Step 2. Grasp the front of the ankle with one hand. Then use the thumb and index finger of the other hand to pinch the back of the ankle and pull it down towards the heel. This can relax your Achilles tendon, as exercise, prolonged standing, and wearing high heels can make it particularly tight.

Step 3. Draw small circles with your thumb from the bottom of the heel to the base of each toe. You can also knead the soles of your feet by pressing the knuckles. Alternatively, hold your feet with both hands and press your thumbs directly onto the soles of your feet, from the heel upwards to below your toes.

Step 4. Finally, gently rotate each toe. After completion, switch feet.

If there is pain, please reduce the pressure. If you feel severe pain, please stop immediately.

You can also use the shiatsu foot massager from the pharmacy. Or try using a foot roller. When using, stand up and hold onto a stable surface with one hand, while rolling your feet on the device with pressure that feels comfortable to you.