Acupuncture treatment for plantar fasciitis

Korea Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic has been demonstrated as an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, offering pain relief and promoting healing through various mechanisms. Below is a summary of its benefits and clinical evidence:

Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis

1. Pain Relief and Healing:

   
   

   • Acupuncture targets specific points on the foot and lower leg to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. It stimulates nerve endings, releasing neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate pain and inflammation.

   • Studies show significant reductions in pain levels during 4–8 weeks of therapy compared to standard treatments or sham acupuncture.

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2. Clinical Evidence:

   
   

   • A systematic review concluded that acupuncture is as effective as other interventions like stretching, night splints, or dexamethasone.

   • In a study comparing acupuncture with drug therapy, the acupuncture group achieved a 97% effective rate versus 76% for drug therapy six months post-treatment.

   • Research indicates that acupuncture stimulates the release of adenosine, which promotes blood flow, reduces inflammation, and enhances tissue healing.

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3. Additional Techniques:

   
   

   • Dry needling may be used to release muscle tension in the calves and feet, further reducing plantar fascia strain.

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Recommended Treatment Protocol

• Acupuncture sessions are typically recommended twice a week for three weeks. Many patients experience improvement after six treatments.

• Specific acupoints such as Yongquan (KI1), Rangu (KI2), Taixi (KI3), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Chengshan (BL57), and Ashi points are commonly targeted.

  
  

Limitations

While acupuncture provides short-term pain relief and healing benefits, evidence regarding its long-term effectiveness remains inconclusive. Further research is needed to establish its sustained benefits.