Although the American Massage Therapy Association reports most of us walk about 1,000 miles a year and put about 1 million pounds of pressure on our feet when we exercise vigorously, the health of our feet often is neglected. Structural foot therapy, for instance, can provide helpful relief for those with pain, people who are on their feet all day, runners, seniors and anyone in need of relaxation.

Foot massages can benefit areas besides your feet. According to the Journal of Advanced Nursing, there is some evidence that foot massage can help with pain relief following heart surgery. The same report accounted how foot massage provided relief for constipation in a young testicular cancer patient.

Though it may seem harmless, medical officials say improper massage techniques can actually hurt a patient, rather than help. Finding a qualified and reputable Charlotte massage therapist is crucial to your health and well-being. Angie’s List has helped members 398 times so far this year in their searches for a qualified therapist.

When you schedule your first therapy session or consultation, be sure to discuss any specific health issues or concerns in order to get the right massage for your needs. Some popular foot massages include:

Kansa Vatki: This East Indian foot massage uses ghee – clarified butter – and is reported to enhance the mind, body and soul. Said to be beneficial for people who spend a lot of time or put a lot of pressure on the feet, the massage can help rejuvenate a person’s energy and act as an alternative healing method for those suffering from illnesses.

Thai: Though this massage partially involves the 23 reflex points of the feet, it also extends up to the knees. After the feet are massaged, they are wrapped for comfort. This massage is known to stimulate circulation and blood flow in the feet and throughout the body.

Mana Lomi: This form of native Hawaiian massage is a spiritually grounded form of healing, especially for issues related to the bones. It’s intended to improve physical alignment, strengthen core muscles and prevent further injury.

Asian reflexology: This massage blends Thai, Indian, Chinese and Japanese techniques to stretch and massage the feet, relieving pain and discomfort.

Vita flex: This form of foot massage is concentrated in the delivery of essential oils to the body, reportedly bringing the recipient into electrical alignment and reducing back pain.