What moves you from place to place, often gets overlooked, and requires regular maintenance to be in top condition? That’s right… your feet!

While many people will answer “a car,” your feet tend to take the burden of your daily commute—even if that commute is as short as going out to the mailbox! Day in and day out, your feet support you—and they can have important implications for your health. If your feet are sore after a long day at work, you might try to con a friend or significant other into giving you a foot massage, but did you know this comforting activity actually has health benefits? Read on to find out some of the best ways that a foot massage from an expert massage therapist in New Jersey improves your overall health.

Circulation. When you come in for a foot, leg, or whole body massage, your massage therapist will get your blood going—all throughout your body, just like it’s supposed to be! Many people experience numbness or cold feet when there is inadequate circulation. Start the blood flow in your feet and experience better comfort all day long.

Cramping. While foot and leg cramps are typically caused by dehydration or poor nutrition, some are caused by excessive exercise, pregnancy, or muscle strain. Work those cramps out with the help of a skilled massage therapist! This has been proven to be especially effective for athletes who are putting a lot of strain on their feet, ankles, and legs.

Flexibility. Unlike stretching, which runs a risk of overextending muscles and tendons, massage is a gentle, yet effective way to improve flexibility. This can be especially true if you have had injuries in the past, or if you have gone a lot of time with limited movement, such as during recovery from other surgeries. When your feet are adequately flexible, you will reduce your risk for pain, falls, and injury.

Awareness. If examined closely, your feet can tell you a lot about your health! The skin, nails, hair, muscles, and other structures can give you important health cues, but only if you’re looking for them. Schedule your appointment at Essential Massage Therapy to start loving your feet—you might be surprised by what you learn!