Thursday, January 17, 2013

Acupuncture For Heel Pain

A new study concludes that acupuncture is beneficial in treating heel pain. Researchers note that acupuncture treatment is comparable to the use of medications, night splints, and stretching. Results show that acupuncture has more significant improvements in pain relief and restoration of function than a standard treatment plan, which includes anti-inflammatory medications.
Heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions. Common causes are plantar fasciitis, fat pad atrophy, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, and baxter nerve compression. The baxter nerve is on the plantar side of the foot and may become entrapped, causing pain and numbness. Acupuncture is typically applied the relieve the inflammation of surrounding tissues to release pressure on the baxter nerve.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by the inflammation of the tissues around the plantar fascia, creating foot and heel pain. Patients often know when they have plantar fasciitis because they are unable to walk properly after getting out of bed first thing in the morning. Acupuncture helps enhance the micro-circulation of blood to the local region to nourish the tendons and ligaments. This allows for the healing process to decrease the inflammation surrounding the plantar fascia.
Fat atrophy of the heel pad is common in the elderly and those who have a history of steroid injections. Acupuncture helps reduce the inflammation, and therefore providing pain management for this condition.
Achilles tendonitis is a chronic condition to the major tendon that connects the heel to the muscles of the leg. When this tendon is inflamed, it makes walking very painful. Acupuncture can provide rapid relief for this condition and can also help heal the tendon and eliminate the heel pain.
Stress fractures of the calcaneous bone are typically caused by overuse and injuries. Acupuncture is used to relieve the pain by speeding the wound healing process of the fracture. Combined with rest and activity modification, acupuncture helps this type of heel pain.
If you are experiencing heel pain, call our Rocky Hill or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Jeffrey S. Kahn, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Heel Pain Doctor in CT
Podiatrist in Rocky Hill and Middletown, CT
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