Foot Pain

By Bindi Zhu, M.D. (China) Ph.D. (Traditional Chinese Medicine)

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Foot pain is a common reason people seek acupuncture. Pain lasting a few days is normal after a long hike or a grueling workout, but you should not ignore prolonged pain. Foot pain is usually a symptom of an underlying condition, and it is crucial to treat it early before it becomes chronic.

Dr. Zhu believes the correct treatment of foot pain begins with finding the root cause. He suggests a thorough investigation of a patient’s medical history, neurological exam, as well as utilizing any X-ray or MRI scans for an accurate diagnosis. By integrating eastern and western medicine elements, we can create a more comprehensive and customized treatment plan specially tailored for each patient.

As a reminder, you can take an active role in your health care. Please be mindful of any unique characteristics of your foot pain, and monitor the approximate location. The following information can help with an accurate diagnosis:

  • How long does the pain last?
  • What makes it feel worse? What makes it feel and better?
  •  What is the exact area, severity, and nature of the pain (dull, stabbing, etc.)?
  • Do any other symptoms accompany foot pain?

These questions will help clarify the correct course of treatment for your type of foot pain.

Heel Pain

One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis usually manifests as stabbing pain and could be worse in the morning. Acupuncture can be used to treat plantar fasciitis. The National Center for Biotechnology Information found acupuncture an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis.

Pain in the Ball of the Foot

The ball of foot pain is usually caused by inflammation, such as Metatarsalgia (stone bruise), Morton’s neuroma, or Sesamoiditis. Causes range from foot structure, poorly fitting shoes, stress fractures, or intense physical activity. Home treatments include light stretching and exercise, comfortable shores, and rest. If the pain is not getting better, be sure to schedule an appointment with us before getting worse.

Arch Pain

Arch pain is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis or fallen arches. Overuse, weight gain, physical stress, and even neurological conditions can aggravate arch pain. It can sometimes be treated at home with simple stretches or getting more supportive shoes. However, it is essential to address pain in the early stages. If left untreated, the pain can become long-lasting and more difficult to treat.

Pain in the Whole Foot

Peripheral Neuropathy and tendinitis are commonly associated with this symptom. Treatments for this condition differ from the others mentioned above. This demonstrates the importance of finding the root cause of the pain, instead of just treating the symptom.

Since there are many causes of foot pain, the root cause must be identified for proper treatment. If you have an X-ray or MRI scans, please remember to bring it to your appointment. These scans help Dr. Zhu gain a complete view of your condition and structure a treatment plan specially tailored to your condition, integrating eastern and western medicine elements.

Lastly, if you need to get any imaging done, we recommend you call Dr. Andrew Ebert, MD. He specializes in the foot and ankle and ankle at 512-476-2830, Orthopedic Specialists of Austin.