Dry needling for Plantar Fasciitis in Geelong
Plantar fasciitis is a common and often painful condition affecting the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the thick band of tissue, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can result from various factors such as overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. One treatment option gaining popularity for its effectiveness in managing this condition is dry needling.
In this blog Tom, The Manx Myotherapist will take your through What dry needling is and how you can benefit from using it for this painful condition.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique in which fine needles are inserted into specific points of the body, particularly trigger points, muscles, and connective tissues. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in modern Western medicine and focuses on relieving muscular pain and improving function.
How Dry Needling Works for Plantar Fasciitis
Mechanism of Action
Dry needling targets trigger points in the muscles and can also have a positive effect on the fascia. For plantar fasciitis, these points are often found in the plantar fascia itself and the surrounding muscles, such as the calf muscles. The insertion of needles into these points helps to:
Release Tension: The needles stimulate the muscle fibers to contract and then relax, releasing any tension or knots.
Reduce Inflammation: The micro-trauma caused by the needles promotes increased blood flow to the area, which aids in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Interrupt Pain Signals: Needling can disrupt the pain signals being sent to the brain, providing relief from chronic pain.
Procedure
A typical dry needling session for plantar fasciitis involves the following steps:
Assessment: Tom would assesses the lower limb and identifies the most affected areas.
Preparation: The skin is cleaned to prevent infection.
Insertion: Fine, sterile needles are inserted into the identified trigger points and other relevant areas.
Manipulation: The therapist may gently manipulate the needles to enhance the treatment's effectiveness.
Removal: Needles are left in place for a short period (usually a few minutes) before being removed.
Post-Needling Care
After the session, patients might experience some soreness, similar to a workout. It's essential to follow post-needling care instructions, which may include:
Applying ice to the treated area.
Gentle stretching exercises.
Avoiding strenuous activities for a short period.
Hydration to help flush out toxins released during the treatment.
Benefits of Dry Needling for Plantar Fasciitis
Pain Relief
One of the primary benefits of dry needling is significant pain relief. By targeting and releasing trigger points, the technique can alleviate the persistent pain associated with plantar fasciitis, often providing relief that other treatments fail to achieve.
Improved Function
Dry needling not only reduces pain but also improves foot function. By releasing tight muscles and fascia, it restores normal movement patterns, helping patients return to their regular activities more quickly.
Complementary Treatment
Dry needling can be used alongside other treatments for plantar fasciitis, such as physical therapy, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications, to enhance overall outcomes.
Considerations and Precautions
It is crucial to seek treatment from a qualified and experienced practitioner. Proper training ensures that the practitioner can accurately identify trigger points and perform the technique safely. Tom is highly trained in various dry needling techniques.
Potential Side Effects
While dry needling is generally safe, some patients may experience side effects such as bruising, bleeding, or temporary soreness. These are usually mild and resolve on their own.
Contraindications
Dry needling may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or infections, should consult their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
Conclusion
Dry needling is a promising treatment option for plantar fasciitis, offering pain relief and improved foot function. When performed by a skilled myotherapist, it can be a safe and effective addition to a comprehensive treatment plan. If you're struggling with plantar fasciitis, consider discussing dry needling with Tom (The Manx Myo) to see if it's the right option for you.
By integrating dry needling into your myotherapy regimen, you may find the relief you've been seeking, allowing you to return to your daily activities with reduced pain and increased mobility.
Read a blog on Myotherapy for Tennis elbow relief here. Book a session with Tom - The Manx Myo here