Acupuncture For Plantar Fasciitis

Acupuncture is a core component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore energy flow, known as qi (chi). According to TCM, plantar fasciitis occurs due to stagnation of qi and blood flow, leading to pain and inflammation.

Acupuncture works by:

1. Reducing Pain and Inflammation – Acupuncture may help stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin, the body's natural painkillers, while also reducing inflammatory markers in the affected area.

2. Improving Blood Circulation – Increased circulation to the foot may helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the plantar fascia, speeding up the healing process.

3. Relaxing Tense Muscles and Fascia – By targeting both local and distal acupuncture points, acupuncture may help reduce tightness in the foot, calf, and Achilles tendon, relieving strain on the plantar fascia.

4. Stimulating Nerve Function – Acupuncture may influences the nervous system, altering pain perception and helping the body regulate its response to chronic foot pain.

   
   

Key Acupuncture Points for Plantar Fasciitis

Acupuncturists choose points based on an individual’s symptoms and overall health. Common acupuncture points for plantar fasciitis include:

• KI1 (Yongquan) – Located on the sole of the foot, this point is directly related to foot pain relief and circulation.

• BL60 (Kunlun) – Found near the Achilles tendon, this point helps relieve pain in the heel and foot.

• SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – Located above the inner ankle, it improves circulation and reduces inflammation in the lower body.

• GB34 (Yanglingquan) – A point on the outer leg that helps with muscle and tendon stiffness, benefiting foot movement.

• Ashi Points – These are tender points directly on the plantar fascia, needled to promote local healing and reduce inflammation.

  
  

Electroacupuncture for Enhanced Relief

Some practitioners use electroacupuncture, where a mild electric current is applied to the needles. This technique enhances stimulation, providing deeper pain relief and reducing inflammation more effectively than traditional acupuncture alone.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis

1. Non-Invasive and Drug-Free – Acupuncture is a natural alternative to pain medications and steroid injections.

2. Long-Term Relief – Regular acupuncture treatments may prevent recurring pain and may improve overall foot function.

3. Improves Mobility – By reducing inflammation and muscle tension, acupuncture may restore normal walking and movement.

4. Few Side Effects – When performed by a registered practitioner, acupuncture has minimal risks compared to surgery or long-term medication use.

   
   
   
   

Acupuncture is a natural treatment approach for patients with plantar fasciitis, helping reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness while promoting healing. Whether used alone or alongside conventional therapies, acupuncture may improve foot function and enhance overall well-being. Always consult a registered acupuncturist to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.