Can You Treat Achilles Tendonitis With Acupuncture?

The Achilles Tendon is the band of tissue that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.

It lets you perform everyday activities like walking, jumping, and running. Achilles Tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon gets strained due to overuse.

Though Achilles tendon injuries most commonly occur in athletes, they can happen to anyone no matter their physical activity level.

Some common symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis are pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon in the morning, pain along the back of the tendon that worsens with activity, and a thickening of the tendon.

Studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for Achilles Tendonitis. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners believe that disruptions to the natural flow of energy or qi in the body cause diseases. Acupuncturists use paper thin needles inserted into specific skin points to stimulate and balance the flow of qi.

Acupuncture can help treat Achilles Tendonitis by repairing damage to the tendon, strengthening the body, and increasing circulation to the tendon and surrounding tissue.

Acupuncture inherently has anti-inflammatory effects. Unlike many other treatment methods that just suppress the symptoms, acupuncture encourages a healing response.

Acupuncture is minimally invasive, drug-free, and does not have significant side effects. No wonder sports medicine specialists and physicians worldwide use acupuncture as an adjunct treatment to treat their patients with Achilles Tendonitis.

Before starting treatment, your acupuncturist will assess your condition. The professional will check whether the affected area responds to acupuncture. Once they get to the root of the problem, your acupuncturist will create a customized treatment plan for you.

Your acupuncturists may add certain exercises proven to strengthen muscles and tendons to help expedite the recovery process. Typical examples include heel lifts, floor stretch, toe to wall stretch, and runner’s stretch.

Your acupuncturist may also recommend other stretching exercises to activate the calf muscles. Be sure to perform these exercises correctly and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.

Want to use acupuncture in Walnut Creek to manage your health condition?  Let the Monarch Acupuncture & Wellness team help. We use acupuncture to improve our patients’ overall wellness. We pride ourselves on our holistic treatment approach, rather than just the symptoms. To discuss your condition with a certified acupuncturist, schedule an appointment online.