Buying guide for Best acupressure sandals
Acupuncture dates back thousands of years to a time when Stone Age man first used sharp-edged stones to pierce and drain boils and abscesses. The first recorded history of applied acupuncture is in the ancient records of traditional Chinese medicine, also known as TCM.
Acupuncture explores the premise that when our body’s life energy, or “qi”, is blocked, health issues arise. To restore and balance energy, which flows through the meridians of the body, acupuncturists insert long, hair-thin needles into specific acupuncture points to balance qi, stimulate healing, and help the body relax. Acupressure is an alternative modality similar to acupuncture. However, in acupressure, physical pressure is exerted upon acupuncture points rather than the insertion of hair-thin needles.
Acupressure sandals, also known as reflexology sandals, utilize raised massage buttons to exert pressure on the soles of the feet. In turn, these stimulate specific meridian points throughout the body, improving circulation, boosting metabolism, and relieving chronic pain.
Are acupressure sandals right for you?
If you are shopping for comfortable, cushy slide-ons, acupressure sandals are not the slipper you seek. However, if you are looking for slip-on sandals that massage the tender pressure points on your feet to help relieve chronic pain, you may want to consider this type of sandal.
Acupressure sandals provide a non-pharmacological intervention. The shoes are shaped like ordinary slippers, slide-ons, or sandals. However, they are unique in that they have wood, stone, plastic, or latex nubs, nodules, or tips strategically placed on the inside of the sandal soles. These points on the shoe are designed to stimulate acupressure points on the foot.
In our research of acupressure sandals, we assess the components referred to as buttons, nubs, tips, or nodules that deliver acupressure to the soles of feet. We note the materials used to make them, which typically include latex, wood, stone, and plastic.
We look for acupressure sandals that deliver specialized benefits, such as reducing foot and back pain, easing leg cramps, and soothing tired feet.
In addition to providing reflexology massage to the soles of the feet, sandals with acupressure nubs should be comfortable to wear. We look for features that promote comfort, such as responsive cushioning and flexible construction.
Some acupressure sandals come in a choice of attractive colors. When color options are available, we factor them into our reviews.
Acupressure sandals may be made of various materials, including leather and synthetic materials. We note the material with which sandals are made in our research.
Because some consumers need dependable arch support in their shoes, we look for this feature when searching for the best therapeutic sandals.
We look for the best acupressure footwear in a number of styles, from slides to flip-flops to sandals with straps.
Our assessments of acupressure sandals include examining the heels. Some heels are elevated, but most are fairly flat. Both varieties can deliver acupressure therapy.
Many of the acupressure sandals we like are unisex styles, meaning they look great with casual wear for both men and women.
For a good fit, acupressure sandals must be comfortable and practical. Our research includes checking out the available size options, from small to large.
Health benefits of acupressure
Acupressure is a useful component of pain management. Persons suffering from the unrelenting pain of sciatica, arthritis, headaches, migraines, back pain, neck pain, and foot pain often find acupressure decreases pain intensity and provides better function and increased mobility.
Acupressure massage sandals are an excellent choice for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis, diabetic neuropathy, leg cramps, metatarsalgia, edema related to pregnancy, fatigue from long hours standing on the feet, and other swelling and circulatory issues. Foot reflexology massage sandals also help relieve backaches. If you are prone to being stiff and sore with a chronic dull ache in your back, a daily 30-minute walk using your acupressure sandals can provide long-lasting relief and increased mobility.
Acupressure has been used to treat some less-obvious conditions, as well. For example, some have found it helpful in quitting smoking or controlling alcohol dependency. However, an acupressure sandal is certainly not a good substitute for medical help, especially when it comes to conditions and dependencies that greatly impact health.
Features
Shoe design
When shopping for acupressure sandals, look for well-constructed sandals with a fully contoured footbed and medical-grade arches designed for support and stability. There are many different designs applied to acupressure sandals. Some include sole magnets for an additional therapeutic effect; others come with thermally controlled sole plates to keep feet warm and toasty.
Size and style
Acupressure sandals are generally unisex shoes. Sizes run from small to medium to large. Styles range from slip-ons to shoes with heel straps. Thong, flip-flop, and big toe strap acupressure massage sandal styles are also available.
While most acupressure sandals have a flat sole, others offer a slight heel. For a comfortable fit, measure your foot size before ordering. Compare the size of your foot to the manufacturer's size chart.
Acupressure sandal prices
The cost of a pair of acupressure sandals varies depending on the manufacturer, material, brand, merchandiser, and quality of the product.
Inexpensive
Acupressure sandals in the low price range are not made to last and are best for use as a short-time therapy slipper. However, because they are comparatively inexpensive, they are great to stash in a gym or beach bag or use as shower shoes when traveling. For sandals in the low price range, expect to pay $20 or less.
Mid-range
In the medium price range, you will find better-quality acupressure sandals priced from $30 to $65. In this price range, a pair of therapeutic sandals will provide years of comfortable wear.
Expensive
Acupressure sandals of the highest quality and customer-tested therapeutic qualities sell for the highest price, which ranges from $65 to $300.
Tips
- Some wearers of acupressure sandals report that they are uncomfortable. However, keep in mind that it may take several wearings to become accustomed to walking on the rigid acupressure nodules. Once your feet become used to the stimulating texture of the soles, they will be your “go-to” shoe when your feet are sore and weary.
- Acupressure sandals refresh tired, achy feet and release blocked qi energy. Choose acupressure sandals manufactured with sturdy, long-wearing rubber soles and lightweight, breathable straps or sandal bandage tops.
- When you return from an invigorating run or a lengthy workout at the gym, acupressure sandals are excellent recovery sandals designed to relieve foot and back pain. Acupressure sandals allow your feet to relax and breathe.
- Acupressure sandals are the shoe of choice for many people who spend a great deal of their day standing. Give acupressure sandals a try: your entire body will thank you.
- Most acupressure sandals are waterproof and easy to clean. They are great for any dirty job, from farm chores to gardening.
FAQ
Q. Why would I want to walk around on sandals with bumps and buttons that are designed to poke my feet?
A. Although it may seem like needless poking, the nubs on acupressure sandals actually serve an important purpose. When you wear the sandals, you stimulate thousands of nerve endings and reflexology zones located on the bottoms of your feet.
Q. Can wearing acupressure sandals provide relief for gout?
A. In some cases, yes. Stimulation of the nerve endings in the feet improves circulation while helping the body detox and rid itself of excess uric acid. A build-up of uric acid is the main cause of painful gout.
Q. Can wearing acupressure sandals help improve my mood?
A. The nerve endings of the feet, when stimulated, can positively affect different parts of the body. As an example, the tender spot in the center of the back of the big toe, the rounded spot at the center of the ball of your foot, and the mound located under the big toe are all associated with emotional stability, mood, and mental health. Using acupressure sandals may brighten your day by calming your nerves, easing fatigue, and relieving other symptoms.
