Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the fascia on the bottom of the foot. Fascia is a thin connective tissue. It is designed to be stretchy, but it can thicken and stiffen when it dries up and is inflamed. This can limit mobility and cause pain. Patients often report it feels like being stabbed in the bottom of the foot. It is most commonly caused by repetitive stress from excessive running, walking, and unsupportive footwear. Especially if not incorporating enough stretching before and after running. Servers, kitchen staff, and bartenders are often afflicted with it due to spending long hours standing.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common conditions we treat at OAP. Acupuncture has been shown to be very beneficial in reducing pain and inflammation while helping the fascia heal faster. There are plenty of studies to support our experiences we have had in the clinic. You can find those studies Here.
Plantar fasciitis often lasts for a minimum of 6 months, yet we see that regular acupuncture combined with stretching can reduce this time period (which varies between patients). Most patients report reduced pain with each treatment. We suggest regular treatments 1-3 times per week for at least a month. We even suggest coming in once a week for a few weeks once the issue has resolved as sometimes we can feel better before we are better.
It is also very important to make sure you are drinking enough water after each acupuncture session to help the tissue soften and become more flexible.
Other important treatments for plantar fasciitis include:
-Daily stretching. You can find videos of suggested stretches Here
-Rolling the bottom of the foot with a tennis ball
-Contrast soaks. Start with a hot epsom salt soak and rotate with ice water and return to hot water (be mindful of temperature and make sure not to burn yourself)
By: Kelsey Rumfello LAc