How to Put Vicks VapoRub on the Soles of Your Feet

Vicks VapoRub is a salve that can reduce irritation on your skin as well as in your muscles. Properly applying it can allow you the greatest degree of comfort, even if you suffer from inflammation or muscle strain. If you are experiencing moderate to severe pain in your feet, applying Vicks VapoRub can provide relief until you can consult with a medical professional.

Things You'll Need

• Vicks VapoRub
• A clean towel

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your feet with soap and warm water. Make sure your feet are as clean as possible before putting anything on them to make sure the salve will have a maximum beneficial effect.

• 2

  Dry your feet thoroughly. Wet feet are much more likely to develop bacterial infections than dry feet.

• 3

  Apply a small dab of the Vicks VapoRub directly to the soles of your feet. It is better to start with a small amount and add more because many people underestimate the potency of the salve.

• 4

  Massage the Vicks VapoRub on your feet with the tips of your finger in a small circular motion. This helps the salve penetrate through your pores, which is especially important in cases of muscular or ligament pain.

• 5

  Wait five minutes after the first application. The effects of Vicks VapoRub can sometimes take a little while before you can feel the full effect. This time lapse will keep you from applying too much salve.

• 6

  Air dry your feet for at least 10 minutes in order to keep the Vicks VapoRub from adhering to your socks or stockings.

• 7

  Stay off of your feet as much as possible in order to alleviate strain in the foot area. While Vicks VapoRub might make it seem that the pain has gone away, the injury or irritation is still active, and the best way to get over it is with rest.

• 8

  Reapply the salve when the effects wear off, repeating the cleaning and drying process each time an application is necessary.