Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can make everyday activities like walking and running a physical challenge. But it doesn’t have to hold you back. Dry needling, a natural and non-invasive treatment, is highly effective in reducing inflammation, relaxing tense muscles, and promoting healing.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain and stiffness in the heel and bottom of the foot, making it difficult to walk, run, or engage in other activities.
Causes of plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Overuse or repetitive strain on the foot
- Poor foot mechanics or biomechanics
- Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly or provide adequate support
- Age-related wear and tear on the foot
- Obesity or excessive weight
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific areas of the body to stimulate healing and relaxation. Unlike acupuncture, which involves the insertion of needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways, dry needling targets specific areas of tension and inflammation. This approach can be especially beneficial for individuals who are looking for a natural and non-invasive treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Dry needling can reduce inflammation
One of the primary ways dry needling helps with plantar fasciitis is by reducing inflammation in the plantar fascia. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and stiffness in the heel and bottom of the foot. Dry needling can help to reduce this inflammation by stimulating the release of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body. This can lead to a significant reduction in pain and discomfort, making it easier to walk, run, and engage in other activities.
In addition to reducing inflammation, dry needling can also help to promote the removal of waste products and toxins from the affected area. This can help to reduce swelling and promote healing, making it an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Dry needling relaxes tense muscles
Another way that dry needling can help with plantar fasciitis is by relaxing tense muscles in the foot and ankle. When the muscles in the foot and ankle become tense, they can pull on the plantar fascia, causing pain and inflammation. Dry needling can help to relax these muscles, reducing tension and promoting healing.
Studies have found that dry needling can also help to improve muscle function and reduce muscle imbalances that can contribute to plantar fasciitis. By stimulating the muscles and tendons in the foot and ankle, dry needling can help to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, making it easier to move and perform daily activities.
Dry needling improves circulation
Dry needling can also help to improve circulation to the affected area, which can promote healing and reduce pain. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it can cause a reduction in blood flow to the area, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Dry needling can help to improve circulation by stimulating the release of chemicals that promote blood flow and reduce inflammation.
Improved circulation can also help to promote the removal of waste products and toxins from the affected area, reducing swelling and promoting healing. By improving circulation, dry needling can help to promote the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the plantar fascia, supporting the healing process and reducing discomfort.
Dry needling can aid in breaking up scar tissue
Finally, dry needling can help to break up scar tissue that can form in the plantar fascia, leading to chronic pain and inflammation. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it can cause the formation of scar tissue, which can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. Dry needling can help to break up this scar tissue, promoting healing and reducing pain.
By breaking up scar tissue, dry needling can help to improve the range of motion and reduce stiffness in the foot and ankle. This can make it easier to move and perform daily activities, reducing the risk of further injury and promoting overall health and well-being.
The benefits of dry needling for plantar fasciitis
- Quick and effective pain relief: Dry needling can provide quick and effective pain relief, especially for individuals who have tried other treatments without success.
- Natural and non-invasive: Dry needling is a natural and non-invasive treatment that doesn’t require surgery or medication.
- Long-term relief: Dry needling can provide long-term relief from plantar fasciitis, which can improve overall quality of life.
- Improved function: Dry needling can help improve function and mobility in the foot and ankle, which can make everyday activities easier and more enjoyable.
Who can benefit from dry needling for plantar fasciitis?
Dry needling can be beneficial for anyone experiencing plantar fasciitis, including:
- Athletes and individuals who engage in high-impact activities
- Individuals who wear shoes that don’t fit properly or provide adequate support
- People who are overweight or obese
- Individuals who have tried other treatments without success
What to expect from dry needling treatment?
Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to providing personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal health and well-being, from your first visit to post-treatment, we are with you every step of the way.
When you arrive for your acupuncture session, your acupuncturist will begin by asking you about your symptoms and medical history to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of your plantar fasciitis. They may also ask you to perform a simple strength test to assess the severity of your condition. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing to your session, as this will allow your acupuncturist to move freely and easily access the areas of your body that need treatment.
Next, your acupuncturist will insert sterile, dry needles into specific points on your body. Don’t worry – acupuncture is a pain-free process. Many patients report feeling a slight sensation of pressure when the needles are inserted, but this is quickly followed by a sense of relaxation and relief as the needles begin to release tension in the affected areas.
After the needles have been inserted, you’ll be asked to rest for 30-45 minutes. This allows the treatment to take full effect and helps your body to begin the healing process. When your session is over, the needles will be removed, and you’ll be free to go about your day as usual. Your acupuncturist may recommend that you take it easy for the rest of the day, or that you follow up with a massage or some gentle stretching exercises to maximize the benefits of your treatment.
Get in touch with us today
If you have been suffering from plantar fasciitis, you are not alone. At Lycoming Orthopedic & Sports Acupuncture, we offer dry needling as part of our comprehensive treatment plan for plantar fasciitis.
Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards heel pain relief.
