Tools for an Arch Massage

The human foot consists of 24 bones that form two arches: longitudinal (which runs the length of the foot) and transverse (which runs across the foot.) These arches, along with muscles and a tissue, plantar fascia, provide support for the foot. Physical activity places stress on the arches that results in pain, which can be alleviated through massage. Methods of massage involve the use of hands or certain aids, or tools.

Tennis Ball

• Roll a tennis ball under the arch.

  Suggestions for aids, or tools, for arch massage include a standard, ordinary tennis ball. The technique involves placing the tennis ball on the floor or ground, then placing the foot (particularly the arch needing relief) on top of the ball. The foot (primarily the arch) then moves back and forth with the ball touching both the floor and foot. Move around to ensure that both arches receive the massage, including any trouble spots which should be emphasized. An uncomfortable feeling in the arch indicates a spot that needs massaging.

Frozen Bottle

• Ice in a bottle aids arch massages.

  Problems with arches lead to other foot problems, since all parts of the foot are interrelated, such as plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament which runs along the bottom of the foot. According to Joint Pain Solutions, heel pain results from this condition with ice as a treatment option. Arches benefit from ice massage with the tool being a container, such as a two liter drink bottle, filled with water and then placed in a freezer. Place the container with ice under the arch and use the same massage techniques as the tennis ball, with the difference being the beneficial effects of the ice.

Rolling Pin

• A rolling pin serves a massage device.

  Another aid to arch massage involves the kitchen rolling pin. The use resembles that of the frozen bottle and tennis ball, placing the pin under the arch with the pin rolling back and forth over the entire foot. The difference involves the medium for the massage, in this instance a wooden pin, which will place different pressure on the arch as opposed to a ball or ice.