Healthy Aging: Foot Massage for the Elderly
As the saying goes, "To keep the elderly healthy, massage the Yongquan acupoint." Massaging the Yongquan acupoint, also known as rubbing the soles of the feet, should generate a warm feeling. This has a significant effect on conditions common in the elderly, such as asthma, lower back and leg pain, and constipation.
The foot Shaoyin kidney meridian originates from the small toe of the foot, crosses the sole of the foot, passes behind the medial malleolus, enters the heel, continues upward along the inner side of the calf, reaches the popliteal fossa, and then follows the inner edge of the thigh to the spine. The meridian also extends upward to the lungs and throat.
This meridian is primarily used to treat gynecological, genital, kidney, lung, throat, and related conditions, such as menstrual irregularities, nocturnal emissions, urinary difficulties, edema, constipation, and diarrhea. Among these conditions, the Yongquan acupoint and the Taixi acupoint are particularly beneficial for daily health maintenance.
Yongquan acupoint:
The Yongquan acupoint is located on the sole of the foot, about one-third of the distance from the front of the line connecting the tip of the interdigital crease between the second and third toes to the heel. As the saying goes, "To keep the elderly healthy, massage the Yongquan acupoint." Massaging the Yongquan acupoint, also known as rubbing the soles of the feet, should generate a warm feeling. This has a significant effect on conditions common in the elderly, such as asthma, lower back and leg pain, and constipation.
The specific method involves using the thumb to repeatedly rub and massage the Yongquan acupoint from the heel to the front, or gently patting with the palm of the hand until the sole of the foot feels warm.
Additionally, soaking the feet in warm saltwater can also warm the Yongquan acupoint. The water temperature should be comfortable for oneself, and soaking for 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime is recommended.
Taixi acupoint:
Located on the inner side of the foot, in the depression between the tip of the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon. Assume a seated position with the feet naturally apart or sit cross-legged. Then, use both thumbs to press or knead the Taixi acupoint until a sore and achy sensation is felt. This can help warm the kidneys and reinforce yang energy, providing good therapeutic effects for cold intolerance and cold limbs caused by yang deficiency.
