Many people enjoy soaking their feet in warm water at night as a way to unwind after a long day. It’s a comforting ritual that promotes circulation, warms the body, and can even improve sleep. While foot baths have become a popular wellness habit, not everyone is suited for this practice. In fact, five specific groups of people should approach foot soaking with extra care, as it may carry risks for them.

1. People with Cardiovascular or Cerebrovascular Conditions

For those in good health, soaking feet in warm water helps improve circulation and induces relaxation. However, for those with heart or cerebrovascular diseases, it can be risky. The heat dilates blood vessels and increases circulation, which may place additional stress on the heart and brain. High water temperatures or prolonged soaking can trigger dizziness, heart palpitations, or other symptoms. To reduce the risk, these individuals should keep the water temperature between 40–45°C (104–113°F) and limit the soak to no more than 10 minutes.

2. People with Diabetes

Diabetic individuals, especially those with diabetic neuropathy or foot complications, often have reduced sensation in their feet. This makes it difficult to detect if the water is too hot, increasing the risk of burns or injuries. It’s crucial for people with diabetes to carefully monitor water temperature and check their feet for any abnormal changes. If any discomfort or unusual symptoms arise, soaking should be stopped immediately and medical advice sought.

3. People with Varicose Veins

Varicose veins develop when the valves in the leg veins become weak.While warm water may promote blood circulation, it doesn't help venous return and may actually worsen the condition. Soaking in hot water could cause further vein dilation, blood pooling in the lower limbs, and swelling. Therefore, individuals with varicose veins should avoid high temperatures and prolonged soaks.

4. People with Athlete’s Foot or Other Skin Conditions

For those with foot fungus (athlete’s foot) or other foot skin conditions, soaking in hot water can worsen symptoms. The warmth and moisture may encourage bacterial growth or lead to secondary infections, particularly if the skin is broken or blistered. In such cases, soaking is not recommended unless directed by a doctor, and should be avoided altogether if there are open sores or active infections.

5. Children

Children, especially those under 10 years old, are not ideal candidates for regular foot baths. Their bodies are still developing, and frequent exposure to hot water may affect the formation of foot arches or increase the risk of flat feet. Additionally, children have less stable body temperature regulation and may overheat more easily. Unless a child has cold feet that need warming, routine foot soaking is usually unnecessary.

The Right Way to Soak Your Feet:

To enjoy the full benefits of foot soaking, proper technique is essential:

Best time: Before bedtime is ideal—it helps relieve stress and prepares the body for sleep.

Recommended frequency: 1 to 2 times per week.

Soaking time: 30–45 minutes per session.

Water temperature: Between 38°C and 43°C (100–109°F).

Water depth: Should cover the ankles.

Keep water warm: Add a bit of hot water as needed during the soak.

While soaking, gently massaging the soles of the feet—especially pressure points like the Yongquan acupoint—can help improve circulation and reduce fatigue.

Important Safety Tips:

Although foot soaking benefits many people, it's not universally safe. Control the temperature and duration, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Soaking increases blood flow and temporarily weakens the skin’s protective barrier, so ensure your feet have no open wounds, infections, or skin damage before starting.