Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis:
Natural Support for Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is a common and often frustrating cause of heel pain, affecting up to 10% of people at some point in their lives. It can feel like a sharp, stabbing pain when you first get out of bed or stand after a long rest, and may interfere with walking, running, or simply being on your feet.
At Point The Way Acupuncture, we offer a gentle, drug-free approach to support people living with plantar fasciitis. Our treatments aim to reduce pain, improve comfort, and help you move more freely, naturally.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes and supports the arch of the foot. Over time, repetitive strain or pressure can cause small injuries, leading to:
Heel pain (especially in the morning or after rest)
Stiffness or tightness in the foot
Sensitivity when walking or standing
Reduced ability to participate in normal activities
Risk factors include prolonged standing, running, obesity, foot structure issues, and sometimes underlying conditions like psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
Acupuncture as a Supportive Option
If conservative treatments like rest, stretching, and massage haven’t helped, acupuncture may offer another option for symptom support. Acupuncture is used to:
Reduce local inflammation
Promote circulation and tissue repair
Relax tight muscles and fascia
Regulate pain signals in the nervous system
Treatment is personalised and may include local points on the foot or distal points to improve overall balance and mobility.
What the Research Says
A systematic review of clinical trials concluded that acupuncture is effective for plantar fasciitis, with results comparable to commonly used treatments like stretching, night splints, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Key findings:
Reduced heel pain during walking and standing
Improved function and comfort over time
Few to no side effects, making it a low-risk option
In fact, the US Department of Veterans Affairs and the Acupuncture Evidence Project both classify acupuncture as having a potential positive effect in treating heel pain.
How It Works
Acupuncture may relieve plantar fasciitis through:
Local effects: Needle insertion stimulates nerve endings, releasing endorphins and reducing inflammation
Circulatory effects: Promotes blood flow and healing in the fascia
Neurological regulation: Reduces brain activity in regions linked to pain perception
Biochemical release: Substances like adenosine and opioid-like compounds help reduce pain and promote tissue repair
This combination of effects helps many people get back on their feet, more comfortably.
Standard Treatments vs. Acupuncture
Common conventional treatments include:
Over-the-counter painkillers (NSAIDs, paracetamol)
Orthotics and night splints
Steroid injections or shockwave therapy
Surgery (in severe cases)
However, these come with varying success rates and potential side effects. Recent safety reviews have raised concerns about the use of NSAIDs and paracetamol, even at standard doses.
In contrast, acupuncture offers:
A non-invasive approach
Minimal side effects
Supportive care without medications
A whole-person perspective
Start Moving with More Comfort
If plantar fasciitis is slowing you down and you're looking for a natural way to relieve pain and regain mobility, acupuncture may offer the support you’ve been searching for.
Book a session today or reach out with your questions. We're here to help you walk with ease again.
Acupuncture is considered a complementary therapy. Results vary between individuals. This information is general in nature and not intended as medical advice. Please consult your GP or healthcare provider before beginning new treatments.