You’ve read about the benefits of acupressure and foot reflexology, but not sure where to start? What if I told you that you can get those health benefits by walking in special sandals for 15 minutes a day?
Yes, acupressure sandals can do all the work for you. All you have to do is wear them, and it doesn’t take long to feel relief from chronic pain and more. Why would anyone choose regular sandals when they can get a therapeutic treatment when walking?
Note: Acupressure sandals or slippers are sometimes called reflexology or massage sandals.
It almost sounds too good to be true. There is a catch. These massaging sandals might be uncomfortable or even painful at first. Once yoffu get used to wearing these foot massage shoes, you will actually look forward to wearing them.
Let’s examine how these sandals work and how to choose the best acupressure sandals for you.
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How do Acupressure Sandals Work?
Similar to acupuncture, Acupressure is a technique with roots in traditional Chinese medicine.
It is based on the concept of life energy which flows through “meridians” in the body. During an acupressure treatment, physical pressure is applied to points on the body with the aim of clearing blockages in these meridians.
Acupressure shoes are shaped like ordinary flip-flops, slippers, slide-ons, or sandals, but they have wood, stone, plastic, or latex bumps strategically placed on the soles. These points on the shoe are designed to stimulate acupressure/reflexology points when you put weight on your feet.
RELATED: 8 Basic Acupressure Mat Positions for Total Body Relaxation
At first, it will probably be painful to wear the reflexology sandals. The massaging nodules are working to break up and eliminate toxins in your feet, increase circulation, and support you with every step. Before you know it, you will feel better and hooked on wearing the sandals.
the heel of a foot balancing on stones on the beach
Acupressure Sandals Benefits
You may be surprised to read about all the benefits that wearing acupressure sandals can provide. They don’t just help tired feet. Some of the benefits include:
Pain management: Acupressure releases endorphins to help relieve back pain, neck pain, and foot pain. The sandals can also help with pain related to sciatica, arthritis, headaches, and migraines. Wearing the shoes after a workout will reduce your recovery time.
Improved circulation: The acupressure sandals will increase circulation which in turn helps improve your mobility, prevent leg cramps and stiffness, and reduce fatigue and swelling.
Treating plantar fasciitis: Targeted pressure from the acupressure sandals can help lift the arch so that heel spurs no longer dig into the fatty pad of the heel.
Smoking Cessation: Some studies have found that acupressure may help people quit smoking.
Not all acupressure sandals will provide all these benefits. They are designed differently to target specific concerns.
Remember wearing acupressure sandals is not a substitute for medical treatment. Please make sure to speak to your doctor about any health concerns. People with heart disease or visceral conditions should not use acupressure.
What to Look for When Shopping for Acupressure Sandals
With all the different options of massage sandals on the market it can be a bit overwhelming to choose one. When considering which reflexology shoes to buy, there are a few important factors to review.
Size
You can find acupressure sandals in a range of sizes. For a comfortable fit, measure your foot before ordering. Size may vary depending on the manufacturer so it is best to check the relevant size chart before purchasing.
Intensity
Just like with any type of massage, there are varying levels of pressure when it comes to these acupressure massage slippers.
Some people with low pain thresholds may feel more comfortable with sandals that are less intense and have massage points that are less firm. Others may feel that the deeper pressure brings quicker relief to their ailments.
Style
Acupressure sandals come in an assortment of styles like thongs, flip-flops, and slip-ons. Some sandals have heel straps. While most acupressure sandals have a flat sole, you can find some with a slight heel.
I think when you are considering which style of sandal to buy, it’s best to keep comfort at the top of your mind. In reality, are you going to be wearing these shoes for a night on the town? To me, how the acupressure sandals feel is more important than how they look.
Price
There are acupressure sandals for all budgets. The price varies greatly depending on the manufacturer, material, and quality of the product. You can find some acupressure sandals for $20 or less.
Don’t completely write-off the lower-priced acupressure sandals. While they may not be as durable as more expensive options, if you don’t use them much they could still last for a while. They could also be used for traveling.
As the price goes up the quality and durability will improve. You can expect the more expensive acupressure sandals to provide years of comfortable wear. Just think of all the money you can save on pain remedies!
The Best Acupressure Sandals
There are plenty of different options when it comes to buying acupressure sandals, but these are our favorites. In our reviews, we included a variety of prices and intensity levels for you to choose from
Kenkoh Massage Sandals
Kenkoh is a Japanese company that was the first to make massage sandals. Their shoes are top quality and come in many styles, but you will pay a premium. These sandals are made for both women and men.
The insoles of Kenkoh sandals have around 1,000 natural rubber nodules that massage and stimulate the bottoms of your feet. Additionally, Kenkoh’s superior arch support helps prevent foot pain, especially from conditions like plantar fasciitis.
RELATED: The Best Foot Massagers for Plantar Fasciitis
You don’t have to be standing to reap the benefits of Kenkoh’s massaging nodules. If the bottoms of your feet are in contact with the knobs, the nerve endings are being stimulated. If you are concerned about DVT or blood circulation while flying, Kenkohs can help.
Click here to see the styles available and to check the price.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Byriver Acupressure Reflexology Sandals
These sandals may not be the most stylish option, but they get the job done. They may take a bit getting used to, but you will notice benefits after only a few minutes of use.
The spring-loaded plastic pressure points provide for an intense massage. They are designed to rotate as they compress to work your feet. You can see the areas that each pressure point targets written on the shoe.
Byriver sandals are made with quality environmentally friendly materials and come with a few replacement massage buttons just in case. Additionally, it’s easy to adjust the width of the sandal with the strap.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Revs Premium Acupressure & Reflexology Massage Sandals
These premium acupressure sandals are the most stylish shoes on our list. They are easy to get used to and you won’t be embarrassed to wear them outside the house.
The natural rubber nodules on the soles of the shoe vary in size to target every reflex in your feet. The sole of the Revs shoes also contains elastomer to provide shock-absorbing qualities. This not only enhances the effects of the massaging sole but also maximizes the cushioning effect of the sole on your feet.
The design of the Revs sole uses an orthotic arch to ensure the foot is supported in the right position and helps good posture.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Neo Reflexology Sandals Acupressure Massage Slippers
These sandals combine the holistic healing power of earth cobblestones with the therapeutic effects of reflexology. You get a mini shiatsu treatment through the specially positioned stones that stimulate pressure points on the sole of your feet.
It has velcro straps so you can easily adjust the shoes to fit the width of your feet. Like many other acupressure flip flops, these will take a bit to get used to wearing.
Once you get over the initial pain, you will look forward to wearing them because of the noticeable improvements.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
Relaxus Acu-Reflex Massage Sandals
These sandals have 100’s of little rubber points that massage nerve endings. The small points don’t feel overly invasive but still provide ample pressure. It doesn’t take long to start feeling pain relief.
The Relaxus sandals are probably the most comfortable acupressure massage sandals that you will find. They also have a strap making it easy to adjust the width. You can wear these for hours at a time.
What Customers Like
What Customers Don’t Like
What are the best acupunture sandals?
While all the shoes on this list offer a beneficial reflexology massage, there is one that stands out above the rest.
The Best Overall Reflexology Sandals
Kenkoh was the first brand to start making these type of sandals and they know what they are doing. Not only are these shoes effective at relieving pain but they look pretty nice too.
The Best Reflexology Slippers for the Money
These sandals provide a deep massage and offer a lot of benefits with just a little use. It’s nice that the material are environmentally friendly too!
Acupressure Sandals FAQ
Are acupressure sandals comfortable to wear?
Acupressure sandals will make a difference in how you feel, but it can take some time to get used to wearing them. If you find the sandals uncomfortable or painful at first, try these tips to help you adjust:
- Slowly increase the length of time you use the sandals each day
- Start by wearing the sandals with thick socks, as you get more used to the feeling you can try thinner or no socks
- Be sure you are hydrated. Drink extra water especially the first few days you use the sandals
How long can you wear acupressure sandals?
It depends on the specific sandals. Some that have less intense massage points can be worn all day. Others are better to limit to 15-30 minutes per day.
Please read the guidelines for the sandals that you purchase. Be sure to start slow and work up to an amount that feels comfortable for your body.
Can you use acupressure sandals when you are pregnant?
We recommend that those who are pregnant consult with their doctor before using acupressure sandals.
Are Acupressure Sandals worth it?
Yes. When you think about the benefits of acupressure shoes, it’s surprising they are so affordable. You will probably save money on pain remedies.
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