If you aren’t fortunate enough to know a massage therapist or have a partner who is willing to massage your tired feet, you might want to consider purchasing a foot massager. Foot massage can reduce stress, decrease inflammation and improve circulation all while making your feet feel good. Here at the the footcare shop we promote their use as part of a good footcare routine.
There are several types of foot massagers available, ranging from basic models available at most drug stores or large department stores to large mechanical models that a physician may prescribe to address a specific problem.
If you suffer from a specific type of foot issue like an ingrown toenail, or have diabetes or nerve problems, you should consult with your doctor prior to purchasing a foot massager.
Manual Foot Massagers
The stripped down basic model of manual foot massagers are used by many people who find them perfect for their needs. Most look like a tube and you simply place it on the floor and roll your foot over it, working from your heels to your toes. You can rub in just one spot if, say, your arch needs some extra TLC.
Some manual units have multiple rollers which are designed to massage the whole foot at once. These massagers look like a frame with rollers suspended within. You simply place your foot in the frame and move your foot back and forth while pressing down. You can customize your massage by adjusting the downward pressure you apply.
Manual foot massagers are portable so they can go with you anywhere. They‘re also easy to store so no hiding them when company visits.
Electric Foot Massagers
If you would rather have a massager do the work for you, choose an electric massager. Electric models use either an oscillating (back and forth) or rolling motion. They are great for the less mobile and avoid you having to touch your own feet.
Most devices are built for both feet allowing users to get both feet massaged at the same time. Placing your feet on the pads of the that use an oscillating motion work on the entire surface of the foot while rollers only work one area at a time. Great for improving circulation in a controlled manor.
Some electric models are large and massage the calves as well. This can be a good choice for those with foot and ankle issues who need to have both areas massaged. These are rather large so you will need a place to store them.
Foot Massage Shoes
Believe it or not there is a very popular product that actually massages your feet wilst you walk! Yes, the BYRIVER Acupressure Foot Massager slippers have a novel design that featurers pressure points built into the footbed.
As the manufacturers point out these slippers can be a bit uncomfortable and should be worn for short periods to allow the feet to adjust to the feeling.
Spa Foot Massagers
Spa massagers are foot baths. They utilize jets of warm water to relax the feet while the water jets gently massage them. Some models also include rollers so they mimic the action of an electric or manual massager with the addition of water.
Benefits of Foot Massage
The benefits of foot massage are numerous. They reduce pain and stress, help you rehab from foot injuries and boost your feeling of well-being. When combined with reflexology, the practice of using specific pressure points in the feet to affect the body, foot massage can be a healing experience.
Relaxation
Let’s face it; nothing beats a good foot massage after a long, tiring day. Some people just melt into their sofa while getting their feet rubbed by their partner.
Researchers have found the solar plexus reflex in the feet.This reflex point is tied to where stress is stored in the body. By massaging this point, stress is released and just flows away.
Foot massage is said to improve your body’s homeostasis. Homeostasis happens when every system of the body works in sync. When your body’s systems are working in balance, you feel more relaxed. Add in some good quality foot cream and you’ve got a great stress busting treatment.
Increased Circulation
Your circulatory system is responsible for bringing oxygenated blood to all the cells in your body, then taking the toxins from the cells to the various parts of the body for elimination. The feet tend to have decreased circulation because of their distance from the heart. Massage, by its very nature, increases circulation and improves both blood flow and waste removal from your feet. This improves your overall sense of well-being as well as health.
Increased Energy
Reflexology theory states that energy blocks occur when the points in the feet are clogged. As foot massage releases these points of tension, you feel energized. Regular foot massage can give you more stamina to face life’s demands .
Increased Immunity
As your stress level decreases and energy increases, your immune system benefits. If you’ve ever caught a cold when you’re overly stressed, you can relate. By routinely taking a few minutes on a regular basis to unwind with foot massage, you can boost your body’s ability to fight off some types of diseases (www.livestrong.com).
The best massager is the one you use. Do you need a full blown calf and foot massager, or will a handheld model meet your needs just as well? Determine your needs and how much money you can afford. Then select your model and let the benefits begin.
What’s our favorite foot massager?
If it’s the manual approach then the cost effective Pediroller is a great option. Place it on the floor and roll your foot front to back a few times. This simple device can be cooled in the fridge to get extra relief from conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
Sources & Further Reading:
A great article on foot massagers on livestrong
Ebay Buying Guide
Have you ever used a foot massager?
Do you have a favorite Model or brand?
Do you hate having your feet touched?
