Guangzhou Dongsheng Hospital and Guangzhou Social Welfare House scientists held a study that could prove acupuncture can treat heel pain effectively. Researcher Xu Xuemeng and his team experimented on 66 patients experiencing some form of heel pain. Some of the test subjects were given filiform acupuncture needle treatment, while others were administered conventional drugs.
After six months, the scientists found that the patients given acupuncture had an effectiveness rating of 97% as opposed to 76% in the control group. Acupuncture is said to be especially useful when it comes to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Your life can greatly be affected by even simple heel pain. If your heel hurts, see podiatrist Paula F. Raugellis, DPM of Greene Podiatry Assoc Inc. Dr. Raugellis can treat your heel pain.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
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