Plantar Fasciitis and Acupuncture Treatment

Plantar fasciitis, commonly known as heel or foot pain, is often explained in Western medicine as a result of overuse or stress on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel, especially after rest, and sometimes swelling in the heel. Standard treatments often involve modifications like activity changes, ice massage, stretching, and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. With these methods, about 80% of patients improve within a year.

However, from an East Asian medicine perspective, the cause of plantar fasciitis may be linked to the kidneys. In traditional medicine, the heel is associated with the kidney and bladder meridians, and pain in this area is seen as a result of kidney essence deficiency or a problem in the bones (which are also related to the kidneys). Muscular issues, which may also cause pain in this region, are linked to the liver. As we age, both the liver and kidney functions tend to weaken, leading to a lack of nourishment for muscles and bones, and as a result, conditions like plantar fasciitis become more common.

The kidney essence, or "Jing," is a vital energy inherited from our parents at birth. Throughout our lives, we use this essence, and how we manage it determines our overall health and longevity. When this essence is depleted prematurely due to overwork or insufficient rest, it can lead to health problems like plantar fasciitis, even in younger individuals.

Case Study

One case involved a young male patient who experienced sudden heel pain upon waking. After just one acupuncture treatment, his symptoms completely disappeared and did not return. In a different case involving a patient in their 60s, while multiple treatments were needed, significant improvement was seen after just one session, and the pain did not recur after completing the course of treatment.

Prevention and Management

So how can we prevent or manage a deficiency in kidney essence? Think of it like the engine of a car—each person is born with a different "engine" size, with varying capacities. Some people have stronger constitutions, while others may need to be more cautious with their energy expenditure. If we overwork without adequate rest, we risk depleting our kidney essence. Thus, taking sufficient rest is the simplest prevention strategy.

If rest alone isn’t enough, seeking treatment from a knowledgeable practitioner and taking herbal medicine that supports kidney function can help prevent or alleviate the issue.

By understanding the deeper root of plantar fasciitis through this holistic lens, we can address both the symptoms and the underlying causes, leading to faster recovery and long-term relief.