Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific points in the body. It has roots in traditional Chinese medicine and is also used within modern healthcare as a treatment approach for certain pain conditions.

Acupuncture is now recognised by science to directly affect the regulatory functions of the body through hormone modulation and nervous system regulation. Because of its influence on the central systems of the human body, it can help aid rest, pain management, tissue healing, and digestion, as well as other bodily concerns. 

However, this treatment is highly individualised and should not act as a replacement for other treatments where they may be appropriate. It is most often assigned alongside other methods of pain management and can act as a supplement to an overall healthcare plan, grounded in addressing the underlying cause of the pain. The Bell Practice explains below: 

What types of foot pain might acupuncture aid? 

Foot and leg pain can be caused by any number of conditions, and acupuncture is not a suitable treatment for all. Acupuncture may be considered for some musculoskeletal and persistent pain presentations, particularly where pain management forms part of a wider treatment programme. 

In this light, it is important to recognise that a suitable diagnosis and assessment of your condition is vital before undergoing acupuncture because another treatment, such as custom orthotics or physiotherapy, could provide more effective results. 

However, acupuncture could be a suitable ongoing treatment for: 

Persistent musculoskeletal pain

Pain that continues for several months can become more complicated than the original injury or irritation. Chronic pain is generally defined as pain that persists or recurs for more than three months. Musculoskeletal pain related to the foot should take a person centred approach, understanding the contributing factors and how this impacts your life. 

Acupuncture may be one option to consider in some long term pain presentations, such as arthritis, ankle pain, nerve pain, muscle pain, and stiffness. 

Some tendon and soft tissue problems

Tendon and soft tissue pain can develop gradually or appear following a sudden increase in activity.

Acupuncture may sometimes be used as part of a wider treatment programme for pain associated with these conditions. Depending on the diagnosis, however, treatment may also need to address strength, movement, activity levels and how much load the affected tissue is experiencing.

Some types of heel and foot pain

Acupuncture has been studied for plantar heel pain, with some research suggesting that it can reduce pain in the short term. However, the evidence base is not definitive and different studies have used different acupuncture methods.

Heel pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. If your heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis, tendon problems, nerve irritation, injury or mechanical overload, the treatment plan may look very different. Acupuncture may be appropriate in some cases, but another treatment may be more suitable in others.

What should you do if you’re experiencing foot pain? 

If you’re experiencing persistent pain in your foot, you should seek investigation before treatment. A podiatrist will be better equipped to understand your condition and prescribe the correct treatment if you document the following prior to your appointment: 

Has the pain started after an injury?

The way the pain started can provide useful information about what may be happening.

Following a significant injury, particularly where pain is severe or you cannot walk normally, assessment should take priority over trying to manage the symptoms yourself. Consider whether your symptoms began after:

• A fall or trip
• A twist or sprain
• A knock or impact
• A sudden change in exercise
• A new sport or training programme
• Repetitive activity
• An increase in time spent standing or walking

If you experience severe pain, inability to walk, a change in foot shape or an injury accompanied by a snap, grinding or popping sound, seek urgent medical attention. 

Has the pain developed gradually?

Pain can build gradually as tissues become overloaded or activity levels change. Persistent heel pain, forefoot pain and tendon problems can all develop in this way. If pain has appeared gradually but isn't settling, make a note of when the pain began and whether it worsens with standing or physical activity.

Is the pain changing the way you walk?

If you're limping or consciously changing how you place your foot down, for example, placing your weight on only one side of your foot, then your symptoms are affecting normal movement. A change in the way you walk can place additional stress on other parts of the foot, ankle, knee or leg.

Is the pain getting better, staying the same or getting worse?

Pain that is repeatedly returning, gradually worsening, failing to improve, or showing in your ankle or leg, should encourage you to seek medical advice. Tingling, loss of sensation or weakness should also be assessed.

Again, make a note of when the pain began and whether it has progressed gradually or recently worsened without clear explanation. 

What time of day is the pain worse? 

If the pain is worse when you wake up, then you might be managing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis or rheumatoid arthritis. If it is worse at the end of the day, your podiatrist might be more inclined to investigate circulation issues, strain, tendinitis, or inflammation. 

Why is diagnosis important before seeking acupuncture for foot pain? 

Foot pain is a symptom. It can be caused by numerous underlying conditions that require targeted treatment methods. 

For example, if it is discovered that you have plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist would be unlikely to suggest acupuncture as a suitable treatment option when the cause of the pain—almost always mechanical—can be tackled directly. In this instance, you would be guided towards 3D Custom Orthotics which would correct the positioning of your foot and reduce/remove the pain with committed use. Alongside this, a series of stretches to reduce strain on the plantar fascia can provide relief. 

If you already have a diagnosis of a condition like arthritis and, as part of a wider treatment plan, you wish to try acupuncture we may still wish to speak with you or your existing medical team to make sure this is the right path forward for you. 

How many acupuncture treatments will you need?

Acupuncture is a highly individualised treatment, and response to the treatment will vary. 

The number of sessions will depend on factors such as:

• What is causing the pain
• How long you've had the problem
• How severe the symptoms are
• How you respond to treatment
• Whether acupuncture is being combined with another treatment

If you're living with ongoing foot or leg pain and aren't sure which treatment is right for you, book an assessment with The Bell Practice. Our focus is on understanding the cause of your discomfort and supporting you with solutions designed specifically for you. With the right care, many common foot issues can be effectively managed or prevented altogether  allowing you to get back to doing what your painful symptom is preventing you doing. 

If you feel that your feet could benefit from additional support or you’re experiencing persistent, chronic pain in your feet, we are here to provide expert guidance and care tailored to you that may include acupuncture.