Relieve Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition of the plantar fascia which is the thick fibrous ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot, and connects to the heel of the foot.
Someone who comes in with intense pain at the bottom of their heel also may experience the pain run along the whole foot or even
discomfort in the ankle and calf.
The Cause of Plantar Fasciitis
This condition is caused by straining the ligament (an overstretch in the soles of the feet), during a physical activity, possibly on a hard surface or with extremely tight calves. Wearing poorly cushioned shoes or sneakers, excessive walking or running or carrying excess weight are also contributing factors to the cause of the pain at the soles of the feet.
The pain is usually a sharp, stabbing pain at the heel and also up the sole of the foot.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis
Research has shown that acupuncture points on the body trigger the release of a substance called adenosine which has the ability to promote blood flow to the heel and sole of the foot, and also providing a strong pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effect.
During your acupuncture session, very thin acupuncture needles will not be placed at the site of the pain, but elsewhere on the body which will release opioids, which are your body's own natural pain killer. Acupuncture has a remarkable effect on the area of the brain that is responsible for pain perception.
By also promoting the blood flow to the heel and sole of the foot, acupuncture helps with tissue healing by stimulating the release of fibroblasts. These are the cells found in connective tissue that secrete collagen proteins to maintain tissue health and healing.
How many sessions are needed for plantar fasciitis
Acupuncture is recommended at least twice a week for 3 weeks. Most people that have come to our Acupuncture & Wellness in Moorooka have experienced progress just after the first treatment. Naturally, ongoing treatment over the next few weeks is required to improve the plantar fasciitis to heal and no longer cause discomfort so you can get back to your favourite activity, be that dancing, running or other.