Can Dry Needling Help Plantar Fasciitis? | Gold Coast, QLD
Plantar fasciitis, the culprit behind that nagging heel pain, affects millions worldwide. In Gold Coast alone, it affects 1 in 10 people. It causes inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick ligament connecting your heel to your toes. The result? A sharp, stabbing sensation that makes even simple activities like walking a chore.
If you've tried the usual suspects – rest, ice, stretches, and pain relievers – and found minimal relief, then dry needling might be your ticket to pain-free steps.
What are the Symptoms and Causes of Plantar Fasciitis?
The most prominent symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, typically felt at the bottom of the heel where the plantar fascia band attaches to the heel bone. This pain is often described as:
Sharp and stabbing - This pain is frequently most intense when taking the first few steps after waking up or after periods of rest.
Aching - This pain may become more dull and achy throughout the day, especially after activities that put stress on the plantar fascia.
Other common symptoms include:
Stiffness in the foot - This stiffness can make it difficult to bend the foot and may be most noticeable in the morning.
Pain radiating to the arch of the foot - In some cases, the pain may radiate towards the arch of the foot, causing discomfort and affecting mobility.
Swelling - Minor swelling around the heel may be present in some individuals.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:
Overuse - Repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, as seen in athletes and individuals with physically demanding jobs, can strain and injure the tissue.
Tight calf muscles - Tightness in the calf muscles can pull on the plantar fascia, increasing tension and leading to inflammation.
Footwear - Wearing shoes with inadequate support or poorly cushioned soles can put additional stress on the heel and plantar fascia.
Occupations that require prolonged standing or walking can also contribute to this condition.
What is Dry Needling?
Don't let the term "needling" scare you! This technique involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points – tight bands of muscle in your foot. No medication is injected, just the needles themselves.
How Does Dry Needling Help Plantar Fasciitis?
Dry needling helps alleviate plantar fasciitis pain by:
Releasing trigger points - Trigger points are tight bands of muscle that can refer pain to other areas. Dry needling helps release these trigger points, reducing pain and improving muscle function.
Improving circulation - The needling process increases blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and tissue repair.
Reducing inflammation - Dry needling can help reduce inflammation, which is another cause of pain and discomfort in plantar fasciitis.
Increasing range of motion - By relieving pain and improving muscle function, dry needling can help increase your range of motion and flexibility in your foot.
Improving function - With reduced pain and improved mobility, you can return to your daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life.
Is Dry Needling Effective for Plantar Fasciitis?
Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of dry needling for plantar fasciitis. A 2021 meta-analysis of 297 randomised controlled trials found that dry needling significantly reduced pain intensity and improved pain-related disability in individuals with plantar fasciitis.
A 2016 study also supports the effectiveness of trigger point dry needling for pain relief, suggesting it could be a good option before resorting to invasive procedures.
Is Dry Needling Safe?
Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for plantar fasciitis when performed by a qualified and experienced therapist in Gold Coast.
Trusted and Qualified Dry Needling on the Gold Coast
Looking for trusted and qualified Dry Needling specialists in Gold Coast? The Holism Remedial Massage team will be your best choice.
Why choose our clinic for your plantar fasciitis treatment?
Experienced and certified therapists - Our team boasts extensive experience in treating plantar fasciitis with Dry Needling and Remedial Massage, ensuring you receive the most effective and personalised care possible.
Individualised treatment plans - We tailor each treatment plan to your specific needs and pain levels, guaranteeing you a targeted approach that yields maximum results.
Highly-rated services - We are proud to have earned a reputation for providing exceptional care and delivering outstanding results for our clients.
Convenient location - Our clinic is conveniently located, making it easy for you to schedule and attend your appointments.
Don't let plantar fasciitis hold you back any longer! Take the first step towards freedom from heel pain and reclaim your active lifestyle. Call us at 0407 227 164 or book here to schedule an appointment.