Scientists at Guangzhou Dongsheng Hospital and Guangzhou Social Welfare House were behind a research study focusing on acupuncture. The study indicates that acupuncture is highly effective in treating heel pain, especially when it comes to treating plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis.

A group of scientists used sixty-six patients that were dealing with ongoing heel pain. Some of the subjects were provided a filiform acupuncture needle treatment, while the rest of the patients received the typical pharmaceutical drugs. After a six month period, the scientists found that the patients that completed the acupuncture treatment gave it an effectiveness rating of 97% while the drugs were only granted a 76% rating.

Your life can greatly be affected by even simplest heel pain. If your heel hurts, see Dr. Angelo Sutera and Dr. Scott Jones of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Dr. Sutera and Dr. Jones 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, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pennsylvania. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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