If your podiatrist recommends a foot massage, how can you say no?
Your feet work hard for you every day. Just like your neck, back, and shoulders, your feet can also benefit from a regular rubdown.
I recommend my patients have a regular massage, not just for the feet, but for total body. While it seems extravagant, it’s a game changer.
Why do Podiatrists advocate frequent foot massage?
- They give you a chance to check out your feet so you can get a jump on treating blisters, bunions, corns, and toenail problems.
- Foot massage improves circulation, stimulates muscles, reduces tension, and often eases pain.
A study performed in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation showed that massage therapy increased the blood flow in the patients’ lower legs. A research study also found that compressed air massage decreased the time it took to heal diabetic foot ulcers. The benefits of a good massage seem to be endless!
Do-It-Yourself Foot Massage:
- Sit in a comfortable chair. Bend your left leg and rest your left foot gently on your right thigh.
- Pour some skin lotion or oil into your hand. Rub it gently into your foot and massage your whole foot including the toes, arch, and heel. You can even go higher up and massage your calf muscle.
- Do a deeper massage. Press the knuckles of your right hand into your left foot. Knead your foot as you would bread. Or work the skin and muscles by holding a foot with both hands and pressing your thumbs into the skin.
- Using your hands, gently pull the toes back and forth or apart. This stretches the muscles underneath.
- Repeat on the other foot.
Over the counter massage devices, such as foot rollers, sold in local drugstores can also help. Simply remove your shoes, and roll your feel over the massagers for a quick pick-me-up. Foam rollers are also great to use on your legs and thighs.
To make an appointment, simply call our office at (859) 264 – 1141 or make an appointment online.