Welcome to flip flop season! It’s finally summer!
It may feel good to finally slip on those flip flops or sandals, but these types of foot wear can be tough on our feet. Sandals tend to lack the good support and cushion that our feet need, which can result in plantar fasciitis or other aches and pains in our feet.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition affecting the feet. Inflammation of the fascia in the bottoms of the feet lead to pain. The pain can been in both feet or in just one. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including overuse, overweight, poor footwear, and tight calf muscles.
How can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture is great to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Increase circulation
- Relax tight fascia or muscles
With less inflammation, increased circulation, and the relaxation of tight muscles, the area has a chance to heal and is given relief from pain.
What else can I do?
In addition to acupuncture, it is important to make some other changes. Some things to try at home include:
- Getting new shoes: invest in some new shoes or shoe inserts to provide your feet with good support. Shoes that are worn daily should be replaced about every 6 months.
- Stretching: focus on stretching tight calf muscles as well as the bottoms of the feet.
- Contrast therapy: alternate heat and ice on the feet. This can be done a number of ways. Try setting up 2 basins of water, one with cooler water and the other with warm water. Place feet in the warmer water for about 3 minutes, then switch to cooler water for about 30 seconds. Repeat the cycle about 3 times. This can be done daily or even multiple times per day.
