Acupuncture as a Therapeutic Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

If you’ve ever felt sharp, stabbing heel pain with your first steps in the morning, you know just how debilitating plantar fasciitis can be. This discomfort can make simple tasks like walking, prolonged standing, or exercising feel difficult and frustrating. 

You’re not alone in this condition. According to 2024 research from Stat Pearls, plantar fasciitis occurs in about 10% of the population, with about 83% of these patients being active working adults between the ages of 25 and 65. 

While common treatments like rest, stretching, steroid injections, and medication can offer some relief, many individuals turn to acupuncture as an alternative therapy for plantar fasciitis. 

But how does acupuncture work, and can it actually help ease the pain associated with plantar fasciitis? Let’s explore how acupuncture could be a valuable addition to your treatment plan.

First: What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from the heel bone to the toes. This tissue provides support for the arch of your foot, but when it becomes inflamed, it can lead to heel pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. 

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include stabbing heel pain, difficulty walking or standing for long periods, and tightness in the foot or calf muscles.

Plantar fasciitis often arises from overuse, ill-fitting shoes, high-impact activities, or sudden changes in activity level. Over time, the strain on the plantar fascia can lead to small tears or stress injuries, which trigger inflammation and chronic pain.

Does Acupuncture Help With Treating Plantar Heel Pain?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing. These points are believed to correspond to pathways of energy flow, known as “Qi,” that run through the body. 

By stimulating these acupuncture points, acupuncture treatment aims to restore balance and promote healing. In the case of plantar fasciitis, acupuncture doesn’t directly treat the inflamed tissue of the plantar fascia but works to address the inflammation and tension associated with plantar heel pain. 

Here’s how acupuncture may help with treating plantar fasciitis pain: 

1. Relieving Pain

Acupuncture has been shown to trigger the body’s release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving compounds. These endorphins can help reduce plantar fasciitis pains, allowing you to go about your day with less discomfort.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Acupuncture treatment may help improve blood circulation in the affected area, which can reduce inflammation and promote faster healing of the injured connective tissues. In fact, research has shown that acupuncture can activate the body’s anti-inflammatory pathways, helping to control swelling and tissue damage.

3. Tension Release

Acupuncture can also help to release tension in the foot muscles and connective tissues surrounding the plantar fascia. This relaxation of the muscles may reduce strain on the affected heel, helping to relieve the tightness and heel pain often associated with plantar fasciitis.

4. Improved Mobility

Regular acupuncture sessions may improve your foot’s range of motion by promoting circulation and reducing pain and inflammation. This increased mobility can allow you to move more freely and comfortably.

What Research Says About Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis

Don’t just take our word for it—the potential benefits of acupuncture for plantar fasciitis are supported by a growing body of research. 

A study published in the Singapore Medical Journal found that acupuncture may be a safe and effective treatment modality for the short-term management of plantar fasciitis. Those in the clinical trial treatment group reported a significant reduction in pain during four to eight weeks of professional acupuncture therapy, compared to standard therapy or sham acupuncture. 

More recently, a 2024 meta-analysis in Cureus indicated that acupuncture treatment was more effective for plantar fasciitis than other non-surgical treatment modalities when compared to a placebo. 

The bottom line: There’s real (and increasing) evidence to support the use of acupuncture for plantar fasciitis, especially in combination with other treatment options. 

How Long Does Acupuncture Usually Take to Work?

While the effectiveness of acupuncture varies depending on the severity of your condition, many people begin to feel relief after just a few sessions. Some individuals report significant improvements in heel pain and mobility after as few as three to five treatments. 

However, others may require more sessions, particularly if the condition is chronic or severe. Typically, acupuncture is administered once or twice a week for several weeks, with fewer sessions needed as chronic pain intensity decreases. 

It’s important to note that acupuncture is often most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. For individuals with plantar fasciitis, acupuncture can be combined with other therapies, such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, and proper footwear, to provide optimal heel pain relief.

Who Should Consider Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis?

Acupuncture may be an excellent option for individuals who…

• Have not found relief through conventional plantar fasciitis treatments like medication or physical therapy.
• Prefer a natural, drug-free method of heel pain management.
• Want to complement other plantar fasciitis treatments to accelerate healing.
• Are seeking alternative and complementary medicine due to a preference for holistic approaches.

Acupuncture is generally considered safe for most people with chronic plantar fasciitis, but it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before starting acupuncture. This is especially true if you have underlying health conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis) or are currently undergoing other treatments for plantar fasciitis.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session for Plantar Fasciitis 

During an acupuncture session, your practitioner will first evaluate your symptoms and medical history. They’ll ask about your specific areas of discomfort, such as heel pain, as well as any other contributing factors like lifestyle or activity level that may affect your condition.

Remember: Traditional Chinese medicine is all about restoring balance and promoting the flow of energy throughout the body. Your practitioner will focus on points that help alleviate heel pain by targeting areas that influence the feet, legs, and overall circulation.

The provider will then insert very fine, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on your body. You may feel a brief sensation and gentle pressure when the needles are inserted, but sessions are generally not painful. 

Most people find the treatment relaxing, with some even falling asleep during treatment. Of course, your experience will depend on many factors, including your personal pain threshold. 

The acupuncture needles will remain in place for about 20 to 30 minutes, after which they will be removed. Your provider may recommend follow-up sessions based on your progress and plantar fasciitis symptoms.

The British Medical Acupuncture Society reports that most treatments last between five and eight sessions, but the recommended schedule will depend on your degree of heel pain, preferences, and goals. 

Is Acupuncture Treatment a Good Choice for You?

In summary, the answer could be yes. 

Acupuncture can be a helpful treatment for plantar fasciitis pain, particularly for those seeking an alternative or complementary therapy. Whether you’re looking for relief from stabbing pain, trying to reduce inflammation, or aiming to promote healing naturally, acupuncture offers a holistic approach that can support your body’s recovery.

While results may vary, many individuals have found significant relief from plantar heel pain through acupuncture, making it a worthwhile option to consider.

Take the First Step in Treating Heel Pain with Solis

If you’re struggling with plantar fasciitis or other chronic conditions, acupuncture treatment might be the answer you’ve been looking for. 

At Solis Acupuncture, we offer personalized care and treatment options to help you manage pain and improve your quality of life on the California coast. Our experienced team of professionals, located in Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley, is dedicated to providing safe and effective acupuncture treatments.

Contact Solis today to learn more about acupuncture for plantar fasciitis and start your path to better health from your head to your heels.