Our feet are constantly working and we don’t give them enough attention. If your feet are overused or are aching after a long day, a foot massage can be just what you need. Research shows that a foot massage is not only relaxing, but it has health benefits, too.

Here are a few ways you can treat your feet:

Reflexology

This is one of the many services we offer at Balanced Body Therapeutic Massage. Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to the feet utilizing specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. Areas of the feet correspond to specific areas of the body. As pressure is applied, the nerves are stimulated creating a state of relaxation.

Getting a foot massage has many scientific health benefits according to mindbodygreen:

*Better balance: In one study, patients who received a foot massage for 30 min, 3 days per week for 2 weeks saw improvement in their stability. 

*Stress and anxiety reduction: One study showed participants’ anxiety levels decreased after self-administered foot massages three times a week over a four-week period.

*Improved sleep: The quality of sleep improved in one study for those who received a foot massage before bed. 

*Reducing foot pain: Studies have demonstrated how a foot massage can help those suffering from foot pain. 

Stretches

Your feet have a big job to do, and since they are bearing all your weight, they can sometimes cramp up, or you may discover you have some foot pain. Incorporating regular stretches into your routine can help to increase flexibility, reduce pain, and improve your overall health. Stretches don’t take up much time and they’re pretty simple to do at home. Here are some stretches you can try. 

Exercise

Poor circulation can cause muscle pain and numbness. But a thirty-minute walk five times a week will help to maintain circulation. If it’s too cold outside, you can always hop on the treadmill. 

Moisturize

‘Tis the season for cold weather, and that can mean cracked feet. Not only can this be painful, but cracked heels can lead to infection. Everyday Health suggests finding a good foot cream and applying it right after you shower for best absorption. Speaking of showers, using gentle soap (as well as drinking plenty of water) can help keep the feet from getting too dry. The Peppermint Pedango Foot Cream we use in our reflexology sessions calms and cools tired legs and feet with arnica, peppermint, lemongrass, and tea tree oil! The best way to get the most out of it is to put it on before you go to sleep, put some socks on top, and let it soak in while you get your zzz’s.  

Speaking of treating your feet, we must mention November is Diabetes Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to check those feet.   

According to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet. That loss of feeling can lead to foot problems including ulcers, infections, gangrene, and Charcot arthropathy, a syndrome that causes foot fractures or dislocations.

Taking care of your feet on a daily basis as well as choosing the right footwear can help to prevent injury. 

Here’s to keeping your feet healthy and happy the entire holiday season and all year long! If you’d like to give the gift of happy feet, gift certificates can be used toward reflexology and are available for purchase!