The Heels Benefit from Massage

A massage for the feet may sound like a luxury, but it’s actually a wonderful way to help with heel pain.  At-home massage of the feet, heels, and ankles can provide relief and enjoyment.  Why is it helpful?

Rubbing the heel increases the flow of blood to the area.  The muscle reacts by relaxing, which can provide a reprieve from pain.  Although, this helpful home remedy is not a long-term solution, it can be beneficial in between manual foot treatments at Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic.  If you’re planning to exercise, try heel massage before and after your workout to reduce fatigue.

There are particular techniques that work well for feet massage, and they’re not hard to learn.  Start with the sole of the foot, and rub it from your toes to your heels.  Using strokes that are short, adjust your pressure based on how your feet are feeling that day.  Gentle pressure is soothing, while applying more pressure will “wake up” the feet.

Stretching the toes will also work the band of tissue that connects them to your heel (the plantar fascia).  Use one hand on the toes, and with the other make a fist that is loose and tap the bottom of the foot.  Another way to massage the sole of the foot is to wrap it with your hands.  Use your thumbs to apply pressure in either a sweeping motion up toward the toes, or in circles with a kneading motion.

 If you have difficulty reaching or lifting your feet, try a tennis ball.  Place your foot on the ball, and roll it back and forth while you are sitting in your favourite chair.  It’s easy to target your heel with this method, and you can do it while you’re reading, or watching your favourite show.