Diabetes impacts your blood circulation in a variety of ways depending on the exact type. While there are many types of this condition, the most prominent ones are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The former is characterized by autoimmune destruction to pancreatic beta cells while the latter is characterized by an inability to either produce or utilize the insulin produced by the body. The question then is, should you get a foot spa when you have diabetes? Will the therapy improve or worsen the condition? The foot spa benefits for diabetics and the mere fact foot massage increase blood circulation shows the therapy is good for this condition.
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How Massage Eases Diabetes
Foot spas, even those involving the use of foot massagers for diabetics, allow you to increase your blood circulation to your extremities (your feet). Improved blood circulation, in turn, increases the oxygen transport capabilities of blood. Consequently, there is an improved potential for enhanced insulin intake, thus negating the effect of diabetes on your system. Combine massage with exercise and diet changes and you will effectively limit or even reverse the damages caused by type 2 diabetes.
Foot Spa Benefits for Diabetes
Production of endorphins
Foot massage improves your circulation of blood not only through your feet but also through your entire body thus reducing pain and inflammation while at the same time promoting healing. During foot spa therapy, the brain produces endorphins neurotransmitters. When these neurotransmitters are transported through your body, they uplift your mood.
Reduces risks of neuropathy
If you are suffering from diabetes foot massage stimulates nerve endings located on your limbs. Stimulated nerve endings lower your risks of developing neuropathy, a condition that is characterized by numbness and pain in your feet. So, if you are experiencing any discomfort associated with neuropathy carry out regular foot massage sessions with masseur or a massaging tool. Your pain and discomfort will reduce as stress levels drop.
Improve insulin utilization
The improved blood circulations that characterize foot massage promote insulin utilization and cellular absorption of glucose. This benefit is anticipated considering improved circulation enables blood to transport glucose to various parts of the body. However, it is advisable to check glucose level between one and two hours after getting a foot spa to establish how exactly the glucose levels are altered by the therapy.
Reduce stress
Relaxation that is closely associated with foot massage is extremely beneficial to a diabetic patient. The mental and physical stress that emanates from knowing you are suffering from a chronic disease can take a toll on your entire body. Administering massage, therefore, with the help or a skilled masseur or a high-quality massager calms your nervous system. The resulting relaxation feel allows your system to restore harmonic organ balance.
Tips to make the spa safe
- Regulate water temperature with a lot of care
- Avoid soaking your feet for far too long (use a maximum of 20 minutes)
- Use mild oils during your foot soak (use of herbs is recommended)
- Do not use pumice stones or foot scrubs
- Moisturize your skin after your foot spa session.
Conclusion
A foot spa besides providing an awesome way to relax enables you to enhance blood circulation to your feet. It, thus, eases symptoms of diabetes that include neuropathy, pain, and stress. Foot massage (you can use a foot messager for that) relaxes your body, revitalizes nerve endings, and soothes your feet reducing or reversing the effects of diabetes. Follow the above tips to get the most from your session.
