DIFFERENT STYLES: Not everyone will enjoy the same type of body massage, this also holds true with a foot massage as well. There are some simple massages that are performed on bare feet, where the massage therapist will massage the tendons and muscles of the feet. In this process, an expert has typically been trained to observe the facial reactions of their clients in order to know which techniques are working best, as well as asking for client's feedback for best results. Often times, scented lotions and oils will be used, but with many people experiencing sensitivity to various smells, the client will usually be asked about the use of scented products or aromatherapy prior to the beginning of the massage.
Some methods of massage date back over 5000 years, like Chinese Foot Massage which is based on the practice of reflexology. In this type of massage, the expert uses their hands and fingers to apply pressure to specific points on the feet in order to affect internal organs. The Thai foot massage uses a very similar method that is also based on reflexology, but the specific pressure points are not manipulated with the fingers and hands, but with a stick and cream or lotion.
Since the Chinese did not record this speciality, the knowledge was almost lost. Once Western countries began connecting with the Chinese up to about 1912, they began to pick up the knowledge, and in 1913, an American doctor began writing about it. Other American doctors followed suit, and in 1938, a physical therapist named Eunice Ingham refined and recorded the details, which became the framework for the field today.
BENEFITS: The benefits are many, including improved circulation and cleansing. As blood circulates throughout the body, it distributes oxygen and nutrients. Since stress causes blood to slow down, oxygen and nutrients also slow down, and blood pressure rises. A foot massage can restore blood flow and lymph system flow, and lower blood pressure. The result is improved health of one's body and mind.
CONSIDERATIONS: Since the trigger points located on the feet have a direct correlation with one's internal organs, visiting a practitioner that is licensed is extremely important. This will assure the patient that they are getting a massage that is managed correctly. Having a massage every day is fine; however, the total amount of time the massage lasts, including both feet, should not be in excess of forty-five minutes.
People who are bleeding, such as women currently menstruating, should not have a reflexology foot massage as it can affect blood flow. A pregnant woman should needs to alert the massage therapist to her condition so that they can avoid the reproductive organs, which could cause contractions to start if they are stimulated. As with all kinds of massages, it is very important to drink plenty of water after a massage to eliminate toxins that the massage has released.
ADDITIONAL OPTIONS: There is another option that some people like to use and that is a foot massage unit that has been scientifically designed for home use. These products are available in a wide range of different prices and are often effective in helping people find relief. The different types of equipment offer different things, for example, some vibrate, some pulse and some even have heated water that bubbles. There are even slippers that vibrate; some come with a heating mechanism that can be an effective treatment for some people. Regardless of the type of foot massage, it can be very therapeutic; it has the ability to eliminate toxins, lower blood pressure and restore a feeling of calm.


