Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects many Austalians and can lead to pain and discomfort in the foot and heel. Plantar Fasciitis can disrupt daily life and make everyday actions like walking or running painful and uncomfortable.
In this article we will examine the causes and symptoms of plantar fasciitis and look at how acupuncture may assist in managing the condition, address underlying issues and and assist to relieve pain. Sports acupuncture may also assist with athletes and sports people who are experiencing foot and heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation in the plantar fascia, which is a strong fibrous tissue that is located in the foot. The main function of the plantar fascia is to support the arch of the foot during movement. When the plantar fascia is overused it can become stretched or swollen which can lead to foot and heel pain.
Some common symptoms of plantar fasciitis can include:
Plantar fasciitis pain can often present as sharp pain in the foot that can often emerge when you take your first few steps in the morning or it can arise after a long period of activity such as exercise or running.
If you are experiencing plantar fascia related pain, there may be several contributing factors such as:
Acupuncture may provide benefits for people who are experiencing plantar fasciitis and these may include:
Pain relief – by targeting specific acupuncture points on the foot and leg, acupuncture may release natural pain-relieving endorphins that can reduce chronic foot and heel pain
Reducing inflammation – acupuncture may help to improve blood flow in the foot and reduce inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Reducing tightness in the muscle and tendons of the foot – the acupuncture process looks to balance the entire body and by identifying possible underlying issues it may help to address factors that are contributing to plantar fascia pain.
Boosting overall health and well-being – acupuncture, as a key branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on maximisng overall health and well-being to maintain energy balance within the body.
A 2011 study indicated that acupuncture “acupuncture can provide pain relief to patients with plantar fasciitis, and that PC 7 is a relatively specific acupoint for heel pain.”
Sports acupuncture is a modern branch of acupuncture therapy that applies Chinese medicine techniques that may promote recovery from sports injuries and help to maintain peak performance.
Some benefits that sports acupuncture may provide are:
Improved mobility – sports acupuncture may improve mobility and reduce strain and load on the foot.
Boosting circulation – sports acupuncture may assist to increase blood flow and promote tissue repair which may assist in recovery.
Enhanced well-being and overall performance – regular sports acupuncture can address muscle imbalances, while promoting flexibility and joint stability.
If you are experiencing plantar fascia pain, acupuncture has some key benefits that may complement your overall treatment plan.
Natural and holistic: acupuncture is a natural therapy that does not involve medication or invasive procedures.
Complementary therapy – acupuncture can be combined with western medicine treatments.
Low risk – acupuncture is low risk if performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner and in most cases has no significant side effects.
Personalised approach – acupuncture therapies can be tailored to address symptoms and any potential underlying issues that may be contributing to pain and imbalance.
To find out more about Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis call us at the clinic:
