Another Option For Treating Heel Pain

Heel pain, often diagnosed as plantar fascitis, is a common problem in today’s world. Many folks have tried various home remedies with little, or no relief. Some have tried steroid injections or expensive orthotics with mixed or short term benefit. The syndrome affects approximately 1 million people in the USA per year.

What is plantar fascitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band which stretches from your heel to your toes. This band of fibrous tissue becomes irritated or inflammed when it is stretched too much or too often. This stretching can produce small tears in the band which also produces inflammation. If the condition becomes chronic, a common result is the formation of a heel spur. Years ago, many doctors thought the heel spur was the source for plantar fascitis, when in fact, the heel spur is the result of plantar fascitis. The pain may be isolated to the heel, or can travel through the arch of the foot.

Dry Needling Treatment for Plantar Fascitis

Dry needling is a technique using small solid core needles and inserting them into a muscle or soft tissue to promote blood flow and reduce tightness. When treating heel pain or plantar fascitis, the needle is inserted in specific areas of the foot and slowly moved in a circular or in and out pattern. Dry needling for plantar fascitis is typically not painful.

Supportive care is usually a good idea following the relief of the heel or arch pain. A patient is typically advised to wear proper shoes or wear an orthotic for additional support. It is not advised to wear “flip flops” or shoes without arch. Barefoot walking is also not a good idea.

If our office can be of any assistance in healing your plantar fascitis with dry needling, please give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Sincerely,

Greg Gruba DC

RapidCityChiropractor.org