Foot Massage Techniques

Tap to Read ➤ Rimlee Bhuyan

A foot massage is an excellent way to soothe the feet muscles and rejuvenate tired feet. But, for best results, you should know the appropriate massage techniques. Not only does it soothe and relax the strained nerves, but also helps in treating chronic pains, past injuries, cramps, and various stress-related problems.

Our feet bear our entire body weight, and they are the most neglected of all body parts. Moreover, ill-fitting footwear, walking in high heels, and bad posture contribute to the ache, pain, and discomfort. The best way to treat your feet is to get a foot massage that will not only help ease the pain, but will also provide relief to the tired muscles.

The perfect foot massage is characterized by applying proper techniques, pressurizing the right points, and making the most effective strokes. Keep these tips in mind before you give out the next foot massage.

Stroking

In this technique, you need to hold the foot in both your hands and using your thumb and index finger apply a steady pressure, starting from your toes to your ankles.

Stroke your entire foot and ease up the pressure around the toes. Repeat the same stroke on the sole of your feet, and make sure that you massage your feet in one continuous flow.

Kneading

Use your fist to knead the sole of your feet in a back and forth motion. Use your knuckles to knead the heel and the toes and gently press the knuckles into the sole of your feet repeatedly.

This helps you get relief from painful tendons that run alongside the outside edges of the foot. Apply firm pressure with your thumbs by sliding them from top to bottom along the sides of the foot.

Toe Rotation

In this technique, each toe is individually rotated first in the clockwise direction and then in an anticlockwise direction.

The best way to do this is to grasp each toe one at a time and gently pull them upwards and then rotate them in opposite directions. Make sure that you do not use too much pressure or you will end up hurting the toes.

Self Foot Massage

▣ If you do not have time to visit a spa, then treat your feet to a massage by yourself. First, clean your feet by soaking them in a tub of lukewarm warm water. You can also use some bath salts and a few drops of essential oils to soothe tired feet muscles.

▣ After you have cleaned your feet, dry them with a fluffy towel. Now, place your left hand on top of the foot and your right hand under the sole of your foot. Apply medium pressure and glide your hands from the toes to your ankles.

▣ Repeat this movement six to seven times. You can also use any fragrant oil like olive oil or coconut so that your feet are also moisturized in the process. Next, pull each toe of your foot gently and rotate them in clockwise and anticlockwise directions.

▣ Using your thumb, press on the arch of your feet and balls. These are the areas that have to bear the brunt of your entire body weight so they have the maximum tension. Use your knuckles to push around the sole of your feet in small, circular motions.

▣ Finish off by stroking around the ankles in gentle upward movements.

There are many benefits of massage therapy. Other techniques like Chinese foot massage and sensual foot massage may also be used to reduce the tension and stress in the feet. All these techniques are a bit advanced and it is best to get them done professionally.