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Achilles tendonitis can be an incredibly painful and debilitating condition, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. Achilles tendonitis is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often resulting from overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity (and believe it or not from Cipro related antibiotics!) Many of my patients are turning to acupuncture for relief.
Western medicine suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, promoting the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins. In Chinese Medicine, we go beyond that and figure out why someone’s constitution may lead to very tight tendons.
Acupuncture aims to address both the underlying inflammation and the associated pain. By targeting specific acupuncture points along the affected meridians, we seek to reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing, and alleviate discomfort.
1. Pain Relief:
Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to pain perception and the affected meridians, acupuncture helps dull pain signals associated with Achilles tendonitis. This natural analgesic effect provides much-needed relief to individuals experiencing discomfort.
2. Inflammation Reduction:
Inflammation is a hallmark of Achilles tendonitis. Acupuncture can help modulate the body's inflammatory response by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances. By targeting acupuncture points associated with immune regulation and tissue healing, acupuncture assists in reducing inflammation along the Achilles tendon, facilitating the healing process.
3. Improved Blood Circulation:
Adequate blood circulation is crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the affected area by dilating blood vessels and promoting micro-circulation. This increased blood supply delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured Achilles tendon, accelerating healing and reducing recovery time.
4. Muscle Relaxation:
Tension and tightness in surrounding the gastrocnemius, soleus and posterior tibialis muscles often exacerbate Achilles tendonitis symptoms. I will often release these muscles with trigger point (dry needling) or add electric stimulation to the points. This helps ease the tightness in those muscles, especially the Soleus which connects to the achilles heel.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese herbal medicine effectively reduced pain and improved function in patients with Achilles tendonitis. Another study in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine demonstrated that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved mobility in individuals with chronic Achilles tendonitis.
During your session, I will conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition and medical history.
Acupuncture can provide pain relief and promote healing, it should not replace other essential components of treatment, such as rest, proper footwear and possibly PT. A comprehensive approach yields the best results for managing Achilles tendonitis effectively.
As always, seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) for the best acupuncture treatments.