Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis: How does it work?
Plantar fasciitis and the inconvenience that it causes
Plantar fasciitis, as the name implies, refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia present in the foot. There are different causes of the condition, which include both mechanical and pathological reasons.
While the pain is mostly mild and resolves by itself, there are cases when the pain prevents you from moving. Thus, this is not a condition that should be ignored as it can become chronic.
According to Whitfield Reaves, the treatment of the condition via acupuncture should be done twice a week for three weeks and then it should be reassessed.
How does it work?
For acupuncture, those techniques should be used that have an effect on the patient immediately. He should feel an instant increase in motion or be able to experience an increase in his range of motion. Different methods are used for this purpose.
In the opposite extremity method, the surface of the palm is treated for alleviating the symptoms in the surface of the foot. It is often the first technique that is used for treating plantar fasciitis. After inserting the needle, the patient is required to walk for five minutes. If an improvement is witnessed, you can proceed with the treatment.
Another method used is the extraordinary point method. The point is the zone of the attachment of the plantar fascia to the heel bone. This is located in the center of the heel. Palpation will guide you to the right site of needle insertion.
Acupuncture basically works by alleviating pressure from the plantar fascia by needle insertion.
Being cautious
While the needle is being inserted, you need to be a bit cautious. The person needs to make it certain that the needle is not inserted too deep, lest it causes damage to the muscles or tendons.
Thus, this is something that should not be attempted by an amateur as there is a probability that the site of the needle insertion is not right. This would do more harm than good. Therefore, before you have the treatment done from any place, ensure that it is verified.
Furthermore, the treatment should not be overdone. The number of sessions to be held depends on the condition of the patient and the time that has elapsed since he acquired the condition. Do not hasten the treatment. It usually takes up to 6 months to attain complete relief.
