Physiological
relaxation after foot massage
A brief foot massage has been proven to provide
physiological relaxation to patients who are ill, especially those in an
intensive care unit.1 In a
previous research study, a brief five-minute foot massage was offered to
patients and a critical-care unit.
Physiological data was collected including heart rate, blood pressure,
respirations, peripheral oxygen saturation of the tissues. These vitals were re-measured after the brief
foot massage. There was no change in the
peripheral oxygen saturation. However,
there was an obvious and significant decrease in heart rate, blood pressure,
and respirations. This proves that in
extremely stressful situations, something as simple as a five-minute foot
massage can increase relaxation which is proven by the physiological changes
recorded.
Whether you are nurse taking care of patients, a massage
therapist providing relaxation, even a psychotherapist, or loved one caring for
a family member, a gentle foot massage can provide proven relaxation. This could be an excellent way to begin a
treatment or therapy session, break the ice, or just to make someone feel at
ease and relaxed.
1
Immediate effects of a five-minute foot massage on patients in critical
care
Intensive
and Critical Care Nursing, Volume 15, Issue 2, April 1999, Pages 77-82Julie Hayes, Carol Cox