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Often Misdiagnosed: Plantar Fasciitis

Often Misdiagnosed: Plantar Fasciitis

by | Often Misdiagnosed

Plantar_Fasciitis1

CC Image credit www.sdri.net

Plantar fasciitis commonly a diagnosis without a clear path to pain relief in traditional channels. However, acupuncture is very effective at treating this Plantar Fasciitis. It is more often caused by other factors, leading to a misdiagnosis of arch and heel pain. However, recovery time can be reduced to just a few short weeks. Allow me to explain…

The gastrocnemius (calf) muscle takes a lot of wear and tear and often can mimic the same symptoms as bone spurs or plantar fasciitis.  These two problems can usually be relieved in 1-3 treatments using acupuncture and massage to release trigger points in tight calf muscles.  Trigger points refer pain patterns, in this case — to the bottom of the foot.

Believe it or not, researchers are now finding that there is actually no inflammation in the plantar fascia (the band of connective tissue in the arch of the foot), but there is degeneration of the tissue.  When the muscles of the lower legs are released with acupuncture and massage, this fascia under foot is given more blood flow, less tension, and the body can repair the damaged fascia.  If you’re dealing with the pain of  plantar fasciitis, acupuncture can help you recover.

Cold/Flu Prevention in Asheville

by | Prevention

Here in Asheville it’s cold and flu season.  During Autumn, we are returning to school, work, and gearing up for the holiday season.  According to the laws of nature, it is a time to reduce activity and turn inward to bolster our bodies protective systems from cold, damp days.  While acupuncture and massage are great at cold/flu prevention and support of overall health and wellness, I’m going to share with you three great methods to support your body and create a strong immune system to resist the dreaded cold and flu at home.
  • Grandma was right: Wear a scarf and hat to keep the head and neck warm.  Keep the cold and damp out and the warmth in when outdoors. On the back of the neck there is an acupuncture point called Dazhui or, “Great Vertebra.” This is the point that is most vulnerable to wind and cold causing sore throat, sinus congestion, and chills/fever.  I always keep a scarf and hat in the car and never leave home without them.
  • Salt Water Heals: The common cold and flu affect the respiratory system beginning in the nose and throat.  At the first sign of a sore throat or sinus infection, try nasopharyngeal rinsing twice a day with a solution of 1/4 c. water, a pinch of sea salt, and 3-5 drops of tea tree and/or lavender essential oil.  With a clean dropper or neti pot, cleanse each nostril while the head is tilted back.  The solution should run through the nasal cavity and go out the mouth.  This cleanses the mucous membranes of pollutants and enhances overall immunity.  I perform this feat in the shower to expel the solution with easy cleanup.  After being in an enclosed space with others is a good time to rinse, ie. planes, family gatherings, trains.  Keep in mind, it’s important to use distilled water to cleanse the nasal passage as warned in this recent NY Times article.
  • A Gentle Approach: Learning to pace yourself is very important for immune health.  Reduce rigorous outdoor exercise and replace with more relaxing type exercise such as yoga, tai chi, or qi gong.  These meditative exercises have been scientifically proven to boost immunity while providing gentle movement to increase flexibility, improve blood flow, and calm the mind.
In addition to these easy tips, remember to eat a nutritious, organic diet, keep a positive attitude, and visit your favorite acupuncturist to stay healthy throughout the year.  In the next episode, I’ll share some tips to care for your back.
In service,
Chad Johnson