The Body's Search for Comfort When Ill
When the body is fighting off an infection or recovering from an illness, it experiences a state of heightened stress. Symptoms like fever, body aches, nausea, and fatigue elevate the body's overall discomfort and anxiety levels. In response, the body often defaults to unconscious self-soothing behaviors, a class of actions known as 'stimming' (self-stimulatory behaviors), to calm the nervous system. Rubbing one's feet together—often called 'cricketing'—is one such rhythmic movement that provides tactile stimulation and releases feel-good neurotransmitters like oxytocin, offering a natural and effective form of pain and stress relief.
The Role of the Parasympathetic Nervous System
While sick, the body is under stress, and the sympathetic nervous system ('fight or flight') is often overactive. Repetitive motions like foot-rubbing help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's 'rest and digest' response. This shift helps to lower heart rate and calm the body and mind, making it easier to relax and rest, which is crucial for recovery.
Sensory and Neurological Explanations
In addition to general self-soothing, there are more specific sensory and neurological reasons for this behavior:
- Sensory Input: The feet are packed with nerve endings, and rubbing them together provides satisfying sensory input that can distract the brain from other discomforts, such as generalized aches and pains.
- Acupressure: Some Eastern medicine practices suggest that massaging areas on the feet, such as the Kidney 1 (KD1) and Liver 3 (LV3) points, can alleviate tension and improve circulation. The act of rubbing your feet together may subconsciously activate these points, contributing to a sense of well-being.
- Neurodivergence: Repetitive sensory stimulation can be a more pronounced coping mechanism for neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD or autism. During illness, when the body is already overwhelmed, stimming behaviors can become more frequent as a way to regulate heightened sensory experiences.
The Connection to Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
While distinct from the unconscious self-soothing of 'cricketing,' it is important to consider Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a neurological disorder that can cause an irresistible urge to move the legs. While RLS is often a chronic condition, it can be exacerbated during periods of illness, and some research links it to various infectious agents and inflammatory factors.
How RLS is different from self-soothing foot-rubbing
- Sensation: RLS is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations like tingling, itching, or a crawling feeling deep within the legs. Regular foot-rubbing, conversely, is typically an unconscious and neutral or pleasant sensation.
- Urgency: The urge to move in RLS is often described as overwhelming and involuntary, whereas self-soothing rubbing is a more deliberate or habitual action.
- Relief: While movement, including rubbing, can provide temporary relief for RLS, the underlying cause is neurological. For 'cricketing,' the relief comes from the soothing nature of the repetitive motion itself.
Managing the Habit When It Becomes Disruptive
For most people, foot-rubbing when sick is harmless and temporary. However, if the habit becomes compulsive, painful, or keeps you or a partner awake, some strategies can help.
Simple strategies for managing foot-rubbing include:
- Mindfulness: Become aware of when you are doing it and consciously try to redirect your attention. Practicing mindfulness can help train your brain to notice and gently stop the habit.
- Alternative Fidgets: Use a stress ball, a soft blanket, or another object to occupy your hands and provide a similar sensory input.
- Other Comfort Measures: Try a warm bath, leg massage, or stretching exercises to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation.
| Comparison of Typical vs. Concerning Foot-Rubbing | Aspect | Typical Self-Soothing ('Cricketing') | Potentially Concerning (Seek Medical Advice) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensation | Neutral or pleasant; for comfort | Accompanied by uncomfortable urges, tingling, or pain | |
| Context | Relaxing, falling asleep, or when feeling unwell | Occurs consistently throughout the day, including during conversations or tasks | |
| Control | Subconscious but can be stopped if focused upon | Difficult or impossible to stop, even when requested | |
| Impact | Little to no negative impact on sleep or daily life | Disrupts sleep significantly or interferes with daily life and relationships |
Conclusion: A Natural Response to Discomfort
The urge to rub your feet together when sick is a natural and common self-soothing behavior. Whether it’s a form of 'cricketing' to calm an anxious nervous system, a response to heightened sensory input, or a way to find a moment of relief from aches and pains, it's rarely a sign of a serious problem. However, if this habit is disrupting your sleep or causing significant distress, it is always wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out conditions like Restless Legs Syndrome. Understanding this subconscious mechanism can provide peace of mind and help you find other effective ways to manage your discomfort as you recover.
For more information on self-soothing behaviors and stress reduction, you can find resources on reputable health websites like Health.com, which covers the topic of 'cricketing' in more detail.
