How Reflexology Can Help with Caregiver Pain

Being a caregiver can take a toll on your body.

You are constantly on your feet, running around for your client and catering to their needs. When it comes to self-care, many caregivers neglect to take care of themselves the way they deserve. After work, it is imperative that you set some time aside for you to relax, unwind and take care of yourself, this is especially important for those with a social anxiety disorder. Among countless other pains, being on your feet for hours on end can especially take a toll on you and your feet over time. Reflexology can help relieve the painful sensation commonly felt after a long shift and ease the bodies stress response.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is the practice of applying targeted pressure to specific areas of your body. The areas identified includes your face, ears, hands, feet and legs.

Reflexology is to be performed by a physical therapy professional that is familiar with the connection between the area where the pressure is applied and how it will benefit you in the long run.

Your personal professional can show you places to apply pressure, in case you need relief outside of their office.  It is advised that if you are interested in reflexology, to look for a professional to show you the pressure points that will benefit you. Please do not attempt to try this on your own without professional supervision your first time.

How Can Reflexology Help with Pain?

There are several ways reflexology can help with several different problems that a caregiver is facing. Due to high stress and high impact on the body, caregiver pains can be anywhere from physical to emotional. Here is how reflexology can help you:

• Foot pain can be a thing of the past! With the application of the appropriate pressure in the right places, foot pain will no longer bother you during your long shifts. Chinese foot reflexology has been a favorite method of reflexology for caregivers that suffer from foot pain.
• Your balance may drastically improve. Reflexology can relieve you from your foot pain and the other aches you may feel in your legs, knees or toes. This will not only leave you feeling pain free but will allow you to stand on your feet with newly improved balance! Your feet will feel lighter, fresher and more relaxed through out your hectic day!
• If you suffer from tension headaches or migraines, reflexology can provide you relief and help prevent future migraines and headaches. By learning reflexology pressure points, you essentially have a way to help your body respond to pain when you feel a migraine or a headache coming on. Practicing reflexology often can also help diminish the number of headaches you will get in the future.
• Reflexology can help lower stress and anxiety. Learning which pressure point feels good and relaxes you can give you a secret weapon to have in your back pocket during the stressful times. For example, if you feel relief when you apply pressure on your temples during a stressful situation, you can allow yourself to recognize the signs of anxiety and stress and aim to avoid those feelings by applying pressure to the area.

Commonly paired with aromatherapy, reflexology can hold the key to relief that you have been looking for. Taking time for yourself and to care for your body can lend itself well to a long, successful career as a caregiver.