Plantar Fasciitis Treatment with Acupuncture

The “plantar fascia” is a web-like structure of muscle and connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.  As such, “plantar fasciitis” is an inflammation of this connective tissue that can make walking and standing quite painful.  Pain may be felt at the heel or along the bottom of the foot, depending on the condition.

Effective treatments include acupuncture, stretching, and/or shoe inserts.  Lifestyle changes may also be necessary.  Many studies have validated that acupuncture treatment will consistently reduce plantar fasciitis pain in the majority of people with this condition.  Western treatment for plantar fasciitis do vary depending on the degree of the condition and individual case. The most common treatments include rest, ice, orthotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.  Severe cases may require injections and sometimes surgery.  However, none of these modalities is considered more effective than another, and occasionally, patients will develop chronic, disabling symptoms despite the best efforts.

Many scientific studies have shown that acupuncture treatment (including electro-acupuncture) can be an effective way to stimulate a healing response.  This healing response generally starts with pain relief and finishes with a cessation of the symptoms as the underlying condition is healed.  Part of this healing occurs due to the effect of acupuncture reducing local inflammation and enhancing blood circulation in the feet and relaxing any muscle tension in the calves and hamstrings.   In summary, Acupuncture provides effective relief in a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis.

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