Pain · Foot · Clinical Monograph
Acupuncture for Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis
Holistic Care for Heel Pain
§ Abstract
Heel spur and plantar fasciitis are two related foot conditions that can cause significant pain and discomfort, primarily in the heel area. While they are connected, they are distinct conditions with different causes. This monograph reviews both, examines conventional treatment, and explores the role of acupuncture as a safe, holistic alternative.
I.
What Are Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis
Heel Spur
A bony growth (calcium deposit) that forms on the underside of the heel bone. This growth can extend forward by several millimetres and may cause pain as it digs into the soft tissues surrounding the heel. Heel spurs are often associated with plantar fasciitis but can also occur independently. They can develop due to factors such as repetitive stress on the heel, excessive walking or running, improper footwear, obesity, or abnormal foot structure.
Plantar Fasciitis
A common cause of heel pain resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This tissue supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock during walking or running. When the plantar fascia becomes overstressed or inflamed, it can cause pain, especially in the heel area.
The main cause of plantar fasciitis is excessive strain on the plantar fascia, which can result from factors such as excessive walking or running, improper footwear, tight calf muscles, obesity, or having flat feet or high arches. While heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are related and can occur together, they are distinct conditions — not all cases of plantar fasciitis involve heel spurs, and not all heel spurs cause pain.
II.
Conventional Treatment Options
The primary goal of conventional treatment is to alleviate pain and inflammation while addressing the underlying causes. Common options include:
Rest
Reduce or avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, giving the affected tissues a chance to heal.
Ice
Apply ice to the painful area for 15–20 minutes, several times a day, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles can alleviate pain and tension.
Physical Therapy
A personalised programme of exercises and stretches to strengthen the foot and leg muscles and promote healing.
Orthotics
Custom or over-the-counter shoe inserts that provide arch support and distribute pressure more evenly.
Supportive Footwear
Shoes with proper arch support, cushioning, and a slightly raised heel.
Night Splints
Wearing a night splint gently stretches the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon overnight.
Weight Loss
If overweight, losing weight can reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
Corticosteroid Injections
Used sparingly to reduce inflammation and pain; repeated injections can weaken the plantar fascia.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)
Non-invasive treatment using high-energy shock waves to stimulate healing.
Surgery
Considered a last resort — plantar fascia release or removal of the heel spur.
III.
The Role of Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be an effective treatment option for heel spur and plantar fasciitis due to its holistic approach and various benefits:
Pain Relief
Stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Reduced Inflammation
Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation in the plantar fascia.
Improved Circulation
Improves blood circulation in the affected area, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen.
Muscle Relaxation
Relaxes the muscles surrounding the affected area, reducing tension on the plantar fascia.
Addressing Underlying Imbalances
Targets specific acupuncture points to correct underlying imbalances contributing to heel pain.
Complementary Therapy
Can be used alongside conventional treatments, potentially enhancing their effectiveness.
Fewer Side Effects
Compared to medications or corticosteroid injections, acupuncture has relatively few side effects.
IV.
Common Acupuncture Points
Kidney 3 (K3, Taixi)
On the inner side of the ankle, between the Achilles tendon and the medial malleolus. Often used for various foot and ankle problems, including heel pain.
Bladder 60 (BL60, Kunlun)
On the outer side of the ankle, between the Achilles tendon and the lateral malleolus. Commonly used to alleviate pain and tension in the heel and ankle.
Spleen 6 (SP6, Sanyinjiao)
On the inner side of the lower leg, about three finger widths above the medial malleolus. Improves circulation and reduces inflammation.
Liver 3 (LV3, Taichong)
On the top of the foot, between the first and second toes. Regulates the flow of Qi and blood in the lower extremities.
Gallbladder 34 (GB34, Yanglingquan)
On the outer side of the lower leg, in the depression anterior to the fibular head. Often used for issues related to the tendons and muscles of the lower leg and foot.
Stomach 36 (ST36, Zusanli)
On the outer side of the lower leg, about one finger width lateral to the anterior border of the tibia, four finger widths below the knee.
Stomach 44 (ST44, Neiting)
On the top of the foot, between the second and third toes. Often used to reduce pain and inflammation in the foot.
Ashi Points
Tender or painful points found in the local area of the heel and arch of the foot.
V.
Duration & Frequency of Treatment
The duration of acupuncture treatment needed to alleviate heel spur and plantar fasciitis symptoms can vary greatly depending on the individual’s specific condition, severity, and underlying factors. Some people may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may require a more extended course of treatment.
It is common for acupuncture practitioners to recommend a series of treatments to address chronic conditions like heel spur and plantar fasciitis. An initial course of treatment may consist of 6 to 12 sessions, typically scheduled once or twice a week. After this initial course, the practitioner may reevaluate the patient’s progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
For some individuals, ongoing maintenance treatments every few weeks or months may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence. It is also essential to address any underlying factors contributing to heel pain — such as poor footwear, muscle imbalances, or excessive strain on the feet — to achieve long-term relief.
At Huatuo Clinic, each patient’s experience with heel spur and plantar fasciitis is unique. We tailor acupuncture points to the individual’s specific symptoms and underlying imbalances, creating a personalised treatment plan that targets the root cause.
Begin Your Care
Our qualified and experienced acupuncturists will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that targets the root cause of your pain and promotes optimal healing. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our pain specialists.