Can Acupuncture Provide Relief for Plantar Fasciitis?

Whether you're an avid runner, a busy professional on your feet all day, or simply trying to enjoy a stroll, the discomfort of plantar fasciitis can be debilitating. While conventional treatments offer relief to some, acupuncture presents a natural and effective alternative for managing plantar fasciitis symptoms and promoting healing. In this blog post, we'll explore how acupuncture and our other therapies can provide lasting relief for plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This inflammation typically leads to stabbing pain in the heel or along the bottom of the foot, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Symptoms associated with Plantar Fasciitis are:

• Pain that worsens with prolonged standing, walking, or activity

• Stiffness and tenderness in the bottom of the foot

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

• Pain that improves with rest but returns after activity resumes

If you have been diagnosed with this condition you may have been prescribed Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) either over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which may help reduce pain and inflammation. However, long-term use of NSAIDs can have potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues and increased risk of cardiovascular events. In cases of severe pain or inflammation that does not respond to conservative treatments, corticosteroid injections may be recommended. These injections can provide temporary relief but carry the risk of potential side effects, such as plantar fascia rupture, fat pad atrophy, and nerve damage. Where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Plantar fascia release surgery involves partially cutting or releasing the plantar fascia to relieve tension and alleviate symptoms. However, surgery carries risks such as infection, nerve damage, and prolonged recovery time.

If you are looking for natural and holistic approach to plantar fasciitis relief in Melbourne FL, at Bodhi TCM we have a very high success rate of providing plantar fasciitis relief to our patients. Unlike conventional treatments such as orthotics, steroid injections, or surgery, our treatments are non-invasive and typically free of side effects. Additionally, many people find our treatments to be relaxing and rejuvenating, providing not only physical but also mental and emotional benefits. Our treatments are holistic with the goal of restoring your overall health, not just your foot. But how do we do it? We create a personalized treatment which uses a blend of Acupuncture and other modern modalities like bio-electric therapies to address the root cause of the issue.

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. While the precise mechanisms of acupuncture are still being researched, our personalized protocols are highly effective and enhanced with modern bio-electric therapies. Here are some of the key points on how they work:

• Reduce inflammation: Acupuncture and our bio-electric therapies have shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, they decrease the inflammatory cytokine levels which can help decrease swelling and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis.

• Relieve muscle tension: Tight muscles in the feet and calves can contribute to plantar fasciitis pain. Acupuncture can help relax these muscles, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.

• Improve circulation: Our protocols also produce enhanced blood flow to the affected area can promote healing and tissue repair, aiding in the recovery process.

• Alleviate nerve sensitivity: Acupuncture may help desensitize nerves in the foot, reducing pain perception and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, making even simple activities challenging and painful. Common treatments can also carry unwanted side effects which lead to other health issues. At Bodhi TCM Acupuncture we provide lasting relief to patients with this condition. While there are various treatment options available, our treatments stand out as a safe, effective, and natural alternative for managing plantar fasciitis symptoms and promoting healing. If you're struggling with plantar fasciitis pain, give us a call to find out how we can help.