What Are the Benefits of a Foot Bath?

For those whose job requires them to be on their feet all day, many days end with pain. Poor choices in shoes, as well as blisters, bunions and other foot problems contribute to the pain. Your feet carry the stress of all of your weight. The truth is, when your feet hurt, you hurt all over. However, a little rest and a hot foot bath can take away all of that discomfort.

Relaxation

• The obvious benefit to a foot bath is the relaxation to the feet and ankles. The heated water warms cold feet while the vibrations relax the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the feet. Aching feet can feel like a toothache as they throb. The soothing warm water calms down the ache when the feet are relaxed.

Pain Reduction

• Soaking the feet in a hot foot bath containing a cup of Epsom salt can be therapeutic for those who have arthritis in their feet. This disease degenerates the small joints in the feet and toes. Walking causes the feet to swell and ache, making the feet feel burning hot on the bottom. A foot bath calms the pain, after which rest and elevation can reduce the swelling.

Increase Circulation

• Massaging foot baths have become popular for people with foot problems. These are baths with jets of water that gently but forcefully massage the feet, increasing circulation and relieving tension. Hot tubs are great for this since you can immerse your entire body in the warm water, allowing the jets to massage your lower back and feet at the same time. The jetted foot baths work the same way, but concentrate on just the feet.