Because of their position and the way they are used, feet are particularly prone to pain. Foot pain can occur for a number of reasons, for example from too much walking or standing. Whatever the reasons is, feet need relief from pain and this can be achieved through foot baths or soaks.
Foot pain
Foot pain is one of the problems that commonly affect the feet. It can be caused by too much strain but the reason can also be of medical nature. Everybody experiences foot pain once in a while, but if the pain is persistent and chronic, it can be a sign of a serious problem. The problem can also occur from the way the foot is shaped. People who have flat feet are more prone to pain than those who have normally shaped feet. Another painful condition that affects the feet are bunions.
Normally, foot pain is just a sign of tension and fatigue and it can successfully be solved by soaking the feet. Other problems related to the feet, for example corns and calluses, can also be solved this way.
The best way to relieve foot pain is to have a foot massage. However, just like with any other massage, foot massage is best if given by someone else. Self-massaging can sometimes be quite difficult and a lot of relaxing effects of the massage are lost. In case there is no one around to give a foot massage, a foot bath or soak is probably the best answer.
Foot soaks
Some people simply cannot live without their daily foot bath or soak. It is a great way to relax not only the feet but the whole body and the mind as well. There are different types of foot soaks, each designed to solve a particular problem.
Foot soaks can help not only with the pain, but with other issues too, like swelling, tension, muscle soreness, and some soaks are even beneficial for skin conditions such as psoriasis, athlete’s foot, warts and bunions.
The main and the most important ingredient of a foot soak is, of course, water. It should be warm but not too hot. However, on a hot summer day, when the feet are swollen and sweaty, it is better to use cooler water. In other cases it is recommended to use warm water because it has a soothing and relaxing effect.
Other ingredients depend on the purpose of the soak. Herbs and essential oils are particularly popular. Essential oils of peppermint, lavender or eucalyptus have a great soothing and refreshing effect on tired and achy feet. Juniper, rosemary and geranium also work great. Sea salt is also very beneficial as it cleans and sanitizes the skin and makes it softer.
Foot soaks are best if done in the evening after a long and tiresome day. They should last about 15 minutes, after which time the feet should be dried and moisturized with a good foot lotion or gel. For very tired and painful feet it is best to use refreshing and invigorating lotions with ingredients like peppermint or eucalyptus.
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