Plantar fasciitis is a common foot ailment that affects a lot of people, especially runners. Inflammation and pain can make this condition impossible to live with, but holistic treatments can be effective. While there are many possible treatments for this, one technique often overlooked is acupuncture. In this article, you’ll find out why acupuncture for plantar fasciitis may be just what you need and how it works to get rid of inflammation.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
While you already know that plantar fasciitis affects the feet, what exactly is it? This condition consists of pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick ligament that runs across the bottom of your foot. This ligament is what connects your heel to the front of your foot.
In many cases, you will feel a sharp pain primarily in your heel area. But many patients report feeling pain in their ankle and calf as well.
Why Do I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
A number of factors can lead to plantar fasciitis. It often occurs due to overstretching or excess pressure on the bottom of your foot. These situations can happen when you overstretch the sole of your foot, exercise with tight calf muscles, run or walk for too long, or carry too much weight. Even wearing shoes with poor cushioning and support can put lots of pressure on your feet.
The overstretching and pressure can weaken, damage, and possibly tear the plantar ligament. Patients often feel pain in their feet, but they also tend to experience stiffness. This can make it hard to stand, walk, and engage in other activities you love.
How Does Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis Help?
1. It Lowers Your Pain Levels Significantly
Many patients report that acupuncture helps tremendously with their pain. The needles stimulate nerve endings in your feet, triggering the release of hormones that manage pain and inflammation in your body. Your body releases natural painkillers, such as endorphins, that reduce your perception of pain. In turn, this increases your pain tolerance.
2. It Increases Blood Flow in Your Feet
Blood flow is vital for healing pain and inflammation within your body. Acupuncture stimulates the release of adenosine, which helps promote circulation within your feet. A bonus is its strong positive effect on pain and swelling.
3. It Heals Your Damaged Tissues
Not only does acupuncture stimulate circulation, it helps your body release other healing mechanisms. For instance, the needles help boost the release of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are cells that play a key role in healing your wounds. They help to create vital collagen proteins that promote healing.
Start Your First Session Today
While you make positive changes to your exercise routine and footwear, you still need to heal your plantar ligament before you can lead an active lifestyle again. Acupuncture for plantar fasciitis is a great complement to any existing treatments you already use, like physical therapy.
If you’re ready to work toward a pain-free lifestyle, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Rafael Padro today. Book a session here or call our office at 305-456-1014.