Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief with Acupuncture and Massage Therapy

plantar fascia=thick band of tissue at bottom of your foot. itis=inflammation

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting both athletes and non-athletes alike. The condition occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of your foot—becomes inflamed (“itis”=inflammation) due to repetitive stress or strain. This can result in sharp, stabbing pain, especially during your first steps in the morning.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

There are many factors that can lead to plantar fasciitis, including:
• Overuse from activities like running, walking, or prolonged standing.
• Improper footwear lacking adequate arch support or cushioning.
• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, which places strain on the plantar fascia.
• Poor foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches.
• Weight gain or obesity, which increases pressure on the feet.

Athletes are particularly prone to developing plantar fasciitis due to the repetitive stress placed on their feet during training and competition.

How Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Acupuncture for Pain Relief and Healing


Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation, including conditions like plantar fasciitis. By targeting specific acupuncture points along the foot and lower leg, acupuncture helps increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. This can be especially beneficial for those who rely heavily on their feet, such as athletes or people with active lifestyles.

Acupuncture treatments often focus not only on the foot, but also on related areas like the calf muscles, which can contribute to the tension and inflammation in the plantar fascia.

Dry Needling for Muscle Tension

For additional relief, trigger point dry needling may be used. This technique targets muscle knots in the calves and feet, helping to release tension and reduce pain. Dry needling is especially useful for athletes, whose muscle tightness may be contributing to plantar fasciitis symptoms. Our Acupuncturists can blend their techniques to support your specific needs.

The Role of Massage in Plantar Fasciitis Recovery

Massage Therapy for Fascia Release and Pain Reduction

Massage therapy is another effective way to treat plantar fasciitis. Techniques like deep tissue massage and myofascial release help break up adhesions in the fascia and improve the flexibility of the foot and ankle. By reducing muscle tension and increasing circulation, massage therapy can accelerate recovery and provide long-term relief. Deep, passive stretching, cupping or the use of scraping tools can be beneficial as well.

Athletes, in particular, benefit from massage therapy as it helps maintain flexibility and muscle health, preventing further strain on the plantar fascia.

The Benefits of Massage for Plantar Fasciitis

Massage therapy offers several key benefits for those suffering from plantar fasciitis, including:
• Reduced pain and inflammation.
• Improved flexibility and range of motion.
• Increased circulation to promote healing.
• Relief from muscle tightness that contributes to plantar fasciitis.

Combining Acupuncture and Massage for Optimal Results

Combining acupuncture and massage therapy provides a comprehensive approach to treating plantar fasciitis. Acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation while massage therapy works on the muscles and fascia, offering a full-body treatment that speeds up recovery. Together, these therapies can:
• Relieve pain and inflammation.
• Restore proper foot mechanics and mobility.
• Improve flexibility and reduce the risk of future injury.
• Help athletes and active individuals maintain their performance levels.

By addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis, acupuncture and massage therapy can offer a long-lasting solution for relief and recovery.


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Are Acupuncture and Massage Safe for Plantar Fasciitis?

Both acupuncture and massage therapy are generally considered safe, non-invasive treatments for plantar fasciitis when performed by trained professionals. Whether you’re an athlete, an active individual, or someone experiencing plantar fasciitis for the first time, these therapies can be tailored to your specific needs to promote recovery and prevent future flare-ups.

There is a Solution to Plantar Fascitis!

Plantar fasciitis can cause significant discomfort, but with the right approach, relief is possible. Acupuncture and massage therapy offer effective, natural ways to treat pain, promote healing, and prevent further injury. If you’re experiencing plantar fasciitis, contact our clinic to learn how we can help you get back on your feet, pain-free.


About the Authors:
Dominic Sandoval is a highly skilled massage therapist. His wide array of massage modalities, such as Deep Tissue Massage, Sports Massage, Neuromuscular, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy and Assisted Stretching, allows him to go the extra mile to assist in pain relief and tension release. He works with Boulder Therapeutics in Boulder and Superior, Colorado.


David Abookire, LMT is the founder of Boulder Therapeutics, Inc, and has been treating athletes and injured clients since 1999. He is passionate about educating people on massage therapy, injury rehab, Acupuncture, injury prevention, sports performance and stretching. He and his team advise clients on the frequency of their care and when they may need to collaborate with other healthcare professionals.