Foot Massage Guide - Part 2

By Valeria Lo Iacono

Reflexology foot massage and foot massage in Asia

Reflexology foot massage originated in China and it is practiced by applying pressure to different points on the sole of the foot, which are connected to the body’s internal organs. Reflexology foot massage is practiced in many Asian countries today, such as Korea, Thailand, China and Japan.

Thai foot massage covers not only the feet, but also the lower part of the legs and it involves the use of the masseur’s hands to stretch and massage the feet, thus opening the energy lines, and the use of a wooden stick to apply pressure on reflexology points on the feet.
Foot massage in Japan is part of Shiatsu massage, a particular type of massage based on reflexology principles. Japanese foot massage involves the use of a wooden stick to stimulate the pressure point, just like in Thailand. This wooden stick in Japan is called shiatsu stick.

Foot massage tools

If you do not have a foot masseur at hand, it is possible to buy foot massagers or sandals that stimulate pressure points. Tools for foot massage range from simple wooden or rubber foot massagers with small tipped rotating wheels that you rotate under your feet, to sophisticated foot spas, electrical foot massagers (which apply pressure on the feet as well on the lower legs), deep kneading foot massagers with heat and a lot more.

Written by Valeria Lo Iacono, a writer for UK Sauna & massage and also Wellness in Sicily.

back to Part 1 of the foot massage guide or massage main page.