Abstract
This plantar fasciitis case report examines the successful resolution of plantar fasciitis in a 45-year-old female patient through a series of acupuncture treatments. The patient presented with severe pain in the heel and arch of her right foot, limiting her ability to walk or stand for extended periods. She was an avid runner, and the injury completely sidelined her training.
The practitioner utilized traditional acupuncture points with electroacupuncture targeting the plantar fascia. Over six weeks, the patient experienced significant pain reduction and improved mobility. This case underscores the potential of acupuncture as a valuable therapy for resolving plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis Case Report Introduction
Plantar fasciitis is a common orthopedic condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition often results in severe pain in the heel, especially during the first steps after awakening or prolonged periods of rest. Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, has gained recognition for its efficacy in managing various musculoskeletal disorders, including plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis Case Presentation
Patient Information
Our patient was a 45-year-old woman who worked as an office administrator. Her primary complaint was severe pain in the right heel and arch, aggravated by weight-bearing activities.
History and Examination
Our patient in this plantar fasciitis case report reported a six-month history of progressive heel pain on her right foot. Initial attempts at relief, such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications, provided minimal improvement. In addition, physical examination revealed tenderness, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the right ankle. There was no other significant medical history or comorbidities.
Plantar Treatment Plan
The practitioner employed traditional acupuncture points in combination with electroacupuncture targeting the plantar fascia.
- Kidney 3 and Kidney 5 with electroacupuncture: Powerful points on the kidney meridian, influencing Qi and blood circulation in the bottom of the foot.
- Spleen 6: Influential point for nourishing the spleen and promoting circulation in the lower extremities.
- Bladder 60 and 64 with electroacupuncture: Used to alleviate heel pain and promote flexibility in the ankle.
Treatment Schedule
Frequency: Twice a week for the first three weeks, followed by once a week for the subsequent three weeks.
Duration: Each session lasted 45 minutes.
Case Results
By the third week of treatment, our patient reported a noticeable reduction in pain intensity. In addition, she experienced less discomfort during weight-bearing activities and could walk longer distances without significant discomfort.
Final Outcome
After six weeks of treatment, the patient reported a complete resolution of her condition. Furthermore, she reported no discomfort during daily activities, and her mobility returned to normal. Physical examination revealed no tenderness or swelling in the affected area.
Plantar Fasciitis Case Discussion
This plantar fasciitis case report highlights the efficacy of acupuncture as an alternative therapy for plantar fasciitis. Specifically, the combination of traditional acupuncture points with electroacupuncture targeting the plantar fascia proved effective in resolving pain and improving mobility.
Conclusion
Acupuncture can be a valuable treatment for plantar fasciitis when tailored to target the plantar fascia. Numerous research studies and clinical trials confirm the excellent results achieved in this plantar fasciitis case report. A follow-up six months later revealed no return of pain, even after returning to her regular running schedule.
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Focus Keyphrase: Plantar Fasciitis Case Report
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What our Clients are Saying
I came to Raleigh Acupuncture for severe plantar fasciitis and hamstring pain. They helped me with both of them. My pain was a 10 out of 10 beforehand, and now I’m barely a 1 out of 10. The process is amazing. I don’t know how it works but I KNOW it works!
I was referred to Raleigh Acupuncture a few months ago because I was having a problem with a bone spur affecting my Achilles. The bone spur caused tremendous pain in my ankle and heel. Physical therapy ordered by a doctor really did not help. My doctor said that if the physical therapy did not help he could do surgery, but it would be very painful and would have an 8-9 month recovery period. Raleigh Acupuncture was my last hope. After a few treatments it was less painful when I walked. As I continued the treatments the pain totally went away. Now surgery is not even necessary. They have also helped me with my migraine headaches and restless leg issues. Acupuncture has made a huge difference in the quality of my life.
For the past 13 years I suffered from peripheral neuropathy in my calf, ankle and foot. I tried numerous medications, therapy with lights, neuromuscular massages and back decompression. I felt like I had stones under the ball of my foot. After the first couple of sessions with Dr. Mark, feelings returned to my calf, ankle and the “stone like feeling” under the ball of my foot began subsiding. Thanks to Dr. Mark, I am able now to walk without pain and discomfort. The extraordinary care and attentiveness I am receiving from Raleigh Acupuncture in treating my neuropathy is remarkable and I recommend them without reserve!
My husband Arthur and I have used Mark and Jinmei bi-weekly for at least 4 years, for a variety of treatments, including general well-being. Both of us felt our ailments healed with the treatment. I had a sprained hip flexor which a sports doctor told me would take 6 weeks to heal… it was gone after 2 visits! Mark and Jinmei are very professional and learned, and we have every confidence in them. Even though we pay out of pocket, we obviously feel that the acupuncture is worth it. We both highly recommend Raleigh Acupuncture. You won’t regret it!
Last month when I was working out at the gym I injured my hip. It was diagnosed as sciatica. Two cortisone shots later the pain was still there, so I came to Raleigh Acupuncture. I was skeptical that it would work because the pain was so bad. But sure enough, they got rid of the pain. And it never came back. These guys are good. I highly recommend them.
I LOVE this place! I LOVE these people. Caring and professional, great at what they do. Living with foot pain for SO LONG now, and it was cleared up after just a couple of sessions. Very reasonable on the price, too. Did I mention I LOVE this place!!
My husband is a runner and came to Raleigh Acupuncture with a bad case of plantar fasciitis. He runs about 25 miles a week and does half marathons. In 3 treatments he was pain-free. And they told him he didn’t even have to stop running while they were treating him. It’s been six months and the pain has not returned.
They treated me for trigeminal neuralgia and planter fasciitis. Fabulous – I fly in from Arizona to see them!!!