Plantar fasciitis is a common condition of the bottom of the foot/heel which can be debilitating and painful, preventing you from walking, playing sports or doing any activity. If other treatments have failed, acupuncture has been shown to successfully treat this condition. Susan Kim, DC, FIAMA, CCN, CSCS, explains how acupuncture helps improve pain and soreness caused by plantar fasciitis:
What can be done to help plantar faciitis?
If you have plantar fasciitis, chances are you may have already tried a variety of treatments such as steroid injections, NSAIDS, physical therapy, stretching, insoles, ice and night splints. Another very successful treatment is acupuncture.
Plantar fasciitis is common and can worsen without treatment. The plantar fascia is a tough ligament/band that runs from the heel of the foot to the ball of the foot. It supports the arch of the foot and works closely with the Achilles tendon and calf muscle to support the entire foot. When this ligament is under repetitive stress from running, excessive walking, jumping, walking on hard concrete or wearing improper footwear, it can result in tiny tears along the plantar fascia, causing inflammation and swelling. If treatment is not timely, the condition becomes more chronic and adhesions develop, creating greater tension and increased pain in the arch and heel.
Research studies have shown that acupuncture can sucessfully treat plantar fasciitis. Thin, sterilized needles are applied directly into the inflamed and painful area to increase circulation and reduce swelling and adhesion. Other treatments may be used in conjunction with the needles, such as Chinese massage, electrical stimulation and vacuum cupping.
If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, acupuncture may be an effective and holistic approach to treat your condition.
If you're interested in trying acupuncture, Susan Kim, DC, FIAMA, CCN, CSCS, welcomes new patients for treatment of pain, migraines, chronic fatigue, stress and more. Her office is located at the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Wellness Campus in Mentor. For information or to schedule an acupuncture appointment, call 440-375-8153.
