This barefoot massage technique was developed by massage therapist Ruthie Piper Hardee in 1995 as a result of her own scoliosis and disk pain, associated with bending over the table to deliver deep-tissue massage. Bars are used above the head for leverage, and lubricant is essential for its application. The technique uses deep compression effleurage strokes that glide over the body.

The resulting movement may help relieve pain resulting from chronic soft-tissue damage. Correct application will provide deep relaxation while stretching chronic shortened muscles of the body.

Correct application of two-footed strokes near the spine creates a “push, pull, pumping” effect on the intervertebral disc space and can relieve irritation on the spinal nerve. No anxiety should result from this application, and client range of comfort is maintained at all times. Additional information is available at www.deepfeet.com.