How to Give a Foot Massage

We all love a massage. Sometimes, however, we just do not have the time or know-how to give someone a full-body massage. A good foot rub is a nice alternative. Show someone you love how much your care when you give a foot massage, especially after a hard day at work. Read on to learn how to give a foot massage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Foot lotion or massage oil
• Comfortable chair
• Stool or ottoman
• Towel

1. 
   Comfortable chair

   Start by having the person sit in a comfortable chair such as a recliner or a couch with a stool or ottoman in front of it. The person will need something to rest his or her feet on.

2. 
   Place down towel.

   Place a towel under his or her feet. This will serve to protect the furniture and catch any drips from the oil or lotion. Make sure the person has his or her socks removed. Roll the pant lets up a little bit, if necessary.

3. 
   Rotate ankle

   Before putting on any lubrication, start by grabbing the foot with one hand and holding the ankle with the other. Move the foot in a circular motion, in a clockwise direction three times, and then in a counter-clockwise direction three times. This helps loosen some tension.

4. 
   Apply oil or lotion

   Apply a coating of foot lotion or massage oil to one foot.

5. 
   Rub in circles.

   Holding onto the foot with both hands, use circular motions with your thumbs on the entire foot, working up and down the foot. Check with the person to make sure the amount of pressure is good.

6. 
   Silde hands up foot

   Holding onto the foot again with both hands, with the palms of your hands touching the entire top of the foot and your thumbs resting in the center, bottom of the foot, slide your hands up the foot while holding onto the foot tightly. Repeat four times.

7. 
   Pull toes.

   With moderate force, pull each toe two to three times. This releases the last bit of tension in the foot.

8. 
   Repeat

   Repeat Steps 3 through 7 on the other foot.

9. 
   Wipe off oil with towel.

   If you used oil, rub off any excess with the towel.

Tips & Warnings

• If someone has a medical condition and/or circulatory issues, have the person check with his or her doctor prior to giving the foot massage.