According to Chinese medicine, the feet of the human body contain nerve endings that are connected to every other part of the body. With that in mind, they believe that a specialized foot massage, which centers on specific points of the foot, can help alleviate any ailment anywhere in the body. The Chinese believe that if there is a painful area on the foot, it is an indication of something being unwell somewhere else in the body. Based on those beliefs, the Chinese have used foot massage as a means of generating overall wellness and energy.

In the Western world, sometimes the feet just hurt-whether it is because of ill-fitting shoes, extended periods of standing or walking, or a combination of both. To satisfy both of these explanations for pain in the feet, there are foot massages that let you have your aching ends find some relief. In fact, there are numerous products and services that bill themselves as foot massaging, from the pedicure service at your local salon to the inserts for your shoes.

To begin, shoe inserts sold by a variety of manufacturers and for a varying price level claim to cushion the ball and heel of the foot; beyond that, some state that they offer specially designed inserts that stimulate those areas of the foot that the Chinese medicinal theory claims are connected to other areas of the body. Whichever insert is chosen, the basic premise here is to use the pressure already being exerted by walking, standing, or running to gently cushion and massage the sole of the foot. Gels and other synthetically produced fabrics and solutions are generally used within the insert to provide this support and massage.

If relief is not completely achieved through the use of shoe inserts, there is also the option of purchasing a foot spa. These foot baths are often equipped with a massage feature or two. Sold at almost every major retailer, these small bowls are easy to use-fill with hot water, plug it in, and insert feet. The benefits of these foot spas in that they are easy to use and will provide simple relief for the general aches and pains of everyday foot abuse. Also, since these are portable and lightweight, you can use them in your living room, bathroom, bedroom, and patio; anywhere you want to receive a foot soak with a gentle massage built in, you can move your foot spa around the house with you. A foot massage in the privacy of your own home is quite appealing.

Of course, there is also the option of visiting a masseuse or even a salon where you can have someone else knead the tensions and swelling right out of your feet. Usually based on the aforementioned Chinese theory of foot massage, you can expect to have your feet soaked in a solution of water and either Epsom salts or herbs that are used for reducing swelling and aiding in relaxation. The masseuse will likely use lotions or creams to reduce friction during the massage, and will knead, tap, and roll their hands and knuckles over your feet and ankles. A foot massage such as this is relaxing beyond words.

When it comes to foot massages, there are many ways to get this relaxing relief, and even more reasons why your feet hurt in the first place. Buy some inserts for your shoes, get your hands on a foot spa, or even visit a special masseuse who can work the kinks out for you. A foot massage is a relaxing and refreshing way to rid yourself of your aches.