How To Use Foot Pressure Points To Relieve Pain
No matter which technique we use to put pressure on the pressure points on our feet, it will be effective to reduce the pain that the body is facing. Apart from this, massaging these pressure points can also help patients suffering from chronic pain. To massage the pressure points on your feet, you need to make sure that you are seated and relaxed. If you cannot reach your feet easily, it would be best that you ask someone else to do it.
Want to know how foot pressure points can help you relieve different pains that your body faces? Keep reading then.
Benefits Of Massage Equipment
Massage machines are amazing for foot pressure point relief after a long day of work. Theyre perfect for immediate relief from muscle soreness and discomfort. While the relief can be temporary, regular usage can really help you relieve some of that long term pain. For those interested, try out the Cloud Massage massager gunor massage machine!
Foot Massage Vs Reflexology
Reflexology is an alternative therapy that involves putting pressure on specific parts of the foot. It is not the same as a regular foot massage.
Advocates of reflexology believe that putting pressure on the foot can heal unrelated problems elsewhere in the body.
There is anecdotal evidence that reflexology can be soothing, but researchers note that many systematic reviews have found little strong evidence to support its effectiveness.
Even if scientific evidence does not support reflexology, the practice can be relaxing, as it is a form of foot massage.
There is no one way to carry out a foot massage. Different people prefer different techniques. A person may want to test many techniques and learn what feels good for them or someone else.
Before getting started:
- soak the feet in warm water, with or without a few drops of diluted essential oil
- pat the feet dry with a towel
- rest the feet on the towel
- spread massage oil over the foot, up to the ankle
Here are some general foot massage tips to use as a guide:
- Pay attention to parts that feel sore: Work on sore areas for longer, with as much or as little pressure as feels comfortable.
- Pay attention to parts that feel good: If it is enjoyable, a person can continue.
- Avoid injuring the thumbs: Do not use so much pressure that the thumbs start to hurt. Use the strength of body weight, not muscles in thumbs, to apply pressure.
- Avoid using pressure that is too light, as this may tickle.
- Focus on one foot at a time.
- athleteâs foot
Recommended Reading: Levis Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans
How To Read A Foot Reflexology Chart
This article was medically reviewed by Karina Klimtchuk, L.Ac., DACM, Dipl. OM. Dr. Karina Klimtchuk is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, Faculty Member at Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the Owner of Kai Wellness. She specializes in holistic health, Chinese herbal medicine, and functional medicine. Dr. Klimtchuk also helps patients through emotional and spiritual trauma. She holds a BA in Psychology and Sociology from The University of Massachusetts, Boston, a Master’s from Emperor’s College in Santa Monica, CA, and a Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 15 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 1,063,832 times.
Foot reflexology charts show the location of reflex points on your feet. Through acupuncture and massage, applying pressure at these points can help heal ailments of the body. With some patience, you can learn to read a chart that will show you where the reflex points on your feet correspond to specific areas of your body’s anatomy.
What Is A Foot Reflexology Chart
As previously mentioned, a foot reflexology chart maps out various pressure points on the foot which are supposed to be energetically connected to other areas in the body. While there are some slight variations when it comes to these charts, the below image is one widely-accepted map that points out the different zones of the foot and which parts of the body they represent.
Don’t Miss: Sentara Orthopedics Elizabeth City Nc
What Happens When Feet Are Massaged
Foot massage improves circulation, stimulates muscles, reduces tension, and often eases pain. It also gives you a chance to check out your feet so you can get a jump on treating blisters, bunions, corns, and toenail problems.
What are the pressure points in your feet called?
Foot reflexology involves administering this practice on 15 pressure points on your feet that are directly linked to every part of your body.
Where are the reflex points on the feet?
For example, in the center of the pad of the big toe there is a reflex point that corresponds to the pituitary gland on the ball of the left big toe is a reflex point to the heart, and on the ball of pinky is a reflex zone to the shoulder. There are over 50 reflex points such as these on the feet.
Medium Aspect Of The Heel
One important area of the foot you can target is the medial aspect of the heel bone, or the middleface. This area of the foot is near your inner heel and can cause tightness and inflammation for people with plantar fasciitis. Give this area some extra attention if you feel tightness in this area.
Also Check: Family Foot And Ankle Center
Challenges And Limitation Of Research And The Practice Of Reflexology
The literature on reflexology is only beginning to emerge since early 1990. Several methodological shortcomings in the previous studies of reflexology safety and efficacy are worth mentioning. Firstly, the number and the methods of reflexology treatment given are not standardized. Furthermore, most studies have small sample size .
The recently increased demand for evidence-based practice challenges the researchers to provide a relevant but holistic assessment of reflexology. Despite the recent vast use of reflexology, minimal attention has been given to the ethical issues related to the research on reflexology. In the view of public health and safety, we argue that the research on reflexology should adhere to the same ethical requirements for all clinical research.
The proper design, control, and intervention protocols of research on reflexology remain debatable. The use of randomized controlled trials is the golden standard in assessing the efficacy of complementary therapies such as reflexology.34 Verhoef et al. have described the challenges when researching complementary therapies: standardization of regimented treatment that limit the individualization of treatment client’s focus on health with restricted roles for disease treatment ethical issues involving the recruitment and randomization due to participants pre-conceived belief on reflexology practicality of applying sham reflexology interference of psychological influence on rapport between patient-provider.35
What Pressure Point Causes You To Fall Asleep Immediately
In addition to treating insomnia, LVT3, also known as Tai Chong may be effective for treating stress and anxiety related to sleeplessness.
We can locate Tai Chong by locating the place where we connect the skin of the big toe with the next toe. We should remember that firm and deep pressure is needed.
Trusted Source reported that treating the Tai Chong pressure point was part of the relaxation routine in its study about fatigue and sleep quality among breast cancer survivors. Three minutes of pressure at each point improved sleep, as determined by the researchers.
You May Like > >
Also Check: Diagram Of The Foot Bones
Massages For Pressure Points In Your Feet
Whether you spend all day standing or complete hard workouts daily, your feet really take a beating. But did you know that all that walking doesnt just affect your feet? It affects your whole body. Targeted foot massages can ease tense areas that cause problems throughout your body, lower stress, aid digestion, and improve sleep through reflexology.
Continue reading to learn more about reflexology and three foot massage techniques you can do at home.
Mounting Evidence Of Reflexology Sessions
From the persons who underwent Coronary angiography
The reflexology session has worked in relieving muscle aches, especially for patients undergoing coronary angiography. The reflex therapy was made to undergo medical testing to prove its judiciousness. The deep massage in foot pressure points worked for reducing pain due to the coronary angiography method.
From the persons who underwent Breast cancer surgery
The results of breast surgery patients who had advanced-stage breast cancer who took reflexology sessions for hands and foot pressure points were also fine.
The postoperative pain due to breast surgery was reduced due to the massage given in foot pressure points and other body parts. It was ideal in inducing relaxation for them.
From the persons who try to relieve people from blind beliefs
The medical research for the existence of reflexology remains as long as people believe in it. The mindset of people who blindly believe in the procedure should be changed by looking at the results of medical testing.
The acupuncturist and massage therapist can only relieve the body pains, but it is impossible to get a complete cure by simply following the reflexology methods without any strengthening intake.
Also Check: Tendons Of Foot And Ankle
Foot Reflexology That Beneficial For Head/ Brain:
The pressure point on top of the feet toes of right or left feet actually is the part from where your brain or heads nerves can get relief. This is the exact reflexology pressure points for head or your brain. A gentle massage on the top of each toe will give you extreme relief from any pain ir stress you get in your head or your brain.
So, how you can massage?
Gently rub on the toe with your right and left hands finger, give some tolerance level of pressure.
Massaging for 10 to 15 minutes is enough for expectational relife.
Help You Manage Stress
Stress management is another potential benefit of a reflexology foot massage.
In the peaceful state of relaxation and tranquility that you can fall into during the comforting pressure of a foot massage, you can more easily enjoy the present moment, practice mindfulness, and prepare yourself to better respond to and manage stressful events and responsibilities.
Read Also: How To Know If You Fractured Your Ankle
What Does Foot Reflexology Mean
For a foot massage, foot reflexology isnt just another term. It is a procedure built on the concept of different pressure points on the feet that refer to the bodys various organs and glands. It generates a healing response when pressure is applied to these points, which can also relieve those symptoms.
According to the reflexology principle, the entire body is divided into ten segments, and the various parts of the feet reflect all of these ten segments. In addition to being an extraordinarily calming and nourishing experience, foot reflexology also has multiple physical health benefits.
The stimulation of reflexological nodes on foot releases the blockage and enables the body to flow freely.
Its like we have small valves on our feet that, when opened, the energy of life rises through the body and the diseases are flushed out. Thats the idea if the imagination has caught up with it.
The feet have approximately 1500 nerve endings, and these are the vital points. From the viewpoint of reflexology, the foot is compassionate. These terminating nerves refer to different parts of the body.
There are three types of reflexology- hand, foot and ear.
From all of this reflexology foot reflexology is considered to be the oldest and the most effective one.
A Foot Reflexology Routine That Promotes Deep Sleep
Since it’s such a relaxing practice, reflexology can make a great addition to any bedtime ritual. Consult with the foot reflexology chart as you go through this 15-minute reflexology routine that corresponds to body parts that are important for sleep.
1. Relax the feet, one at a time, with simple relaxation techniques. Consider pressing and squeezing, lightly slapping or gently kneadingwhatever feels good. Finish by pressing and holding your thumb on the solar plexus point of each foot for 5 to 10 seconds each.
2. On the bottom of each foot, “walk” your thumb up from the base of the heel to each toe , then press these reflex points with the outer edge of your thumb or tip of your forefinger:
- Head/brain promotes clarity and positive thinking
- Pituitary or “master gland” stimulates/balances hormone secretions of all other glands
- Pineal gland secretes melatonin, which controls our circadian rhythm/sleep cycle
- Thyroid balances metabolism
- Neck/shoulders releases tension
- Chest/lungs calms breathing
- Solar plexus/diaphragm encourages profound relaxation and peacefulness
If you have other particular areas of your body that are stressed, you can press the corresponding reflex area or point.
3. Apply the relaxation techniques again, and finish with another thumb press on the solar plexus point on both feet.
Read Also: Best Orthopedic Dog Beds For Senior Dogs
Points On Your Feet For Nausea
The word Li Dui translates to sick mouth and the Di Er Li Dui acupoint treats just that.
If you feel nauseated or are experiencing its indications such as excessive hunger, dizziness, and loss of consciousness, apply pressure with your index finger on the upper portion of the second toe.on the spot just under the toenail.
Do this for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times.
The Tai Chong acupoint also helps calm down nausea symptoms and the dizziness and headaches that accompany it.
Soothe your queasiness by pressing on the gap between the big and second toe for 30 seconds and repeating the firm pressure 2 to 3 times.
Pressure Points To Relieve You From Pain
Every good doctor knows the application of acupuncture and acupressure. These both techniques take your labor pain away. The application of these pressure points in feet will relieve you from pain. You can apply it in early house of labor to reduce back pain.
You can also use them to assist and support your body before birth.
Also Check: Bsw Orthopedic Associates Of Dallas
Pressure Points In The Foot
Reflexology charts can show you a full breakdown of pressure points within the foot. Heres a general guide for corresponding body parts on the foot:
Toes: The head, specifically the brain, side neck, and sinuses
Inside surface : The spine
Outer edge: The shoulders, arms, hips, knees, and legs
The entire bottom of your foot corresponds with various organs.
Top third : Chest organs, including the lungs and heart.
Middle third : Abdominal organs, like the stomach, spleen, liver, and intestines
Bottom third : Pelvic organs, such as the bladder, colon, reproductive organs, etc. the sciatic nerve
Scientific Evidence For Reflexology
Some reflexologists claim that by treating people using the points from a reflexology foot chart as a guide, they can treat a variety of medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma and cancer, but there is no robust scientific data to prove these claims.
However, several studies have shown that reflexology may reduce pain and thus decrease the amount of pain medication required, help to improve psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety, and enhance relaxation and sleep.
Reflexology has also been found to reduce the intensity of labour pains and to be a helpful adjunct with cancer patients during palliative care.
Also Check: Orthotic Shop Orthopedic Shoes Utica Mi
What Are The Risks Associated With Foot Reflexology
Good news: There are precious few risks associated with reflexology, which is why it is widely embraced as a complementary therapy for individuals suffering from any or all of the aforementioned ailments . However, as with all types of massage, it is important that the person performing it has adequate training and considers the individuals personal health profile and needs. Per Tsao-Lin Moy, a licensed acupuncturist and massage therapist, diminished sensory in feet or nerve damage are important considerations, as some conditions can cause more inflammation such as RSD. She also notes that women in their first trimester of pregnancy should make sure the practitioner has experience with pregnant clients, which is just sound advice across the board theres no evidence that points to reflexology posing a pregnancy risk.
There Are Two Areas Of The Foot That Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy
According to Ebbin, there are two areas that you should definitely avoid during pregnancy: the reflexology areas directly connected to the uterus and ovaries, which are located on the inside and outside of both ankles in the hollow areas just under the ankle bones.
Pressing here is a direct channel to the uterus and ovaries, so no deep massaging the ankles during pregnancy, Ebbin said.
Sp6 Acupressure Point
Ebbin said another area to avoid is located on the inner ankle area, just three finger widths above the inner ankle bone .
Dr. Elizabeth Trattner, an acupuncture physician, told INSIDER this point is the command point of the lower abdomen.
Urinary Bladder 60
Trattner explained the location of this point as right behind the ankle bone on the outer side. If you trace your finger off the bone between the Achilles tendon and the ankle bone you found it.
This point provides pain relief and helps transition through labor, so dont go near it during a foot massage, warned Trattner.
Urinary Bladder 67
This pressure point is located at the corner of the baby toe on the lateral edge of the toenail. It is thought to stimulate cont actions and get the baby into optimal position for labor. So if you aren’t trying to induce labor, it should be avoided.
This is the point to turn the fetus, said Trattner.
Sign up here to get INSIDER’s favorite stories straight to your inbox.
You May Like: St Vincent’s Orthopedic Doctors
What To Expect In A Reflexology Session
In a reflexology session, theres not much more to it than sitting and relaxing. At the start of a session, youll describe for the practitioner any specific tension or discomfort youre experiencing. This will help them determine where to focus their efforts.
Depending on the length of your appointment and your specific needs, reflexology massages can be as short as a few minutes or as long as an hour. And self-reflexology can be as long as you have time for.
During the massage, youll likely be sitting in a comfortable reclining chair or lying on a standard massage table. While many practitioners simply use their hands, some might use additional massage tools. Overall, a reflexology massage session will be calm, quiet, and relaxing. In most cases, talking is optional but allowed. You also wont be in trouble if you dose off during the massage.
Reflexology massage typically involves applying pressure to the feet, but a practitioner might also massage pressure points on your hands and ears as part of the session. Because reflexology focuses on your feet, hands, and ears, you can remain clothed with the exception of your feet. You may find it more comfortable to remove your glasses if your ears are going to be involved in the massage.