Acupuncture for Achilles Tendonitis
A person touching Achilles pain
Acupuncture & Dry Needling for Achilles Pain: An Effective Approach to Achilles Tendonitis
As a leading acupuncture clinic, we're passionate about using traditional techniques for modern healing. We specialize in acupuncture and dry needling, powerful tools in treating a condition commonly seen in athletes and active individuals: Achilles Tendonitis.
Where is the Achilles Tendon?
Situated at the back of the lower leg, the Achilles tendon stands as the most strongest tendon in the human body, capable of withstanding substantial tensile stress. It serves as the connection point for the muscles in the back of the calf, specifically linking the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles to the calcaneus, or heel bone. Named after the legendary Greek figure Achilles, this tendon is also referred to as the calcaneal tendon, reflecting its attachment site. However, it is most commonly known as the Achilles tendon.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles Tendonitis is an overuse injury affecting the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). This tendon is crucial for walking, running, and jumping. When inflamed, it can cause painful symptoms in the heel and lower calf, often hindering physical activity.
In some cases, Achilles Tendonitis can evolve into a chronic condition known as Achilles tendinosis. Unlike the acute inflammation found in tendonitis, tendinosis refers to a degeneration of the tendon's collagen in response to chronic overuse. This degeneration can lead to thickening, localized pain, and a reduced ability to withstand tension. Achilles tendinosis may require more complex treatment and a longer recovery time, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper care for Achilles-related injuries.
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis is often the result of repetitive stress, poor training habits, improper footwear, or muscle imbalances. Factors like overpronation, running on uneven surfaces, or sudden increases in training intensity can put excessive strain on the Achilles tendon. Muscle weaknesses in the calf and surrounding areas can also contribute to this condition.
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Using Acupuncture
Traditional treatment for Achilles Tendonitis may include rest, pain medication, and physical therapy. However, acupuncture offers an innovative approach grounded in science.
Acupuncture stimulates specific anatomic sites, known as acupuncture points, to activate the body's natural painkillers, reduce inflammation, and improve local blood circulation. In the case of Achilles Tendonitis, acupuncture can target points correlating to the pain area, providing more holistic healing.
Trigger Points and Achilles Tendonitis
According to Travell and Simons' Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual, myofascial trigger points in the Gastrocnemius and Soleus muscles are frequent causes of pain attributed to Achilles Tendonitis.
These muscles, part of the calf, can develop trigger points that refer pain to the Achilles tendon area. Techniques such as dry needling and myofascial release can provide significant relief from Achilles tendon pain.
Achilles tendon highlighted
The Role of Acupuncture in Treating Achilles Tendonitis
Traditional treatment for Achilles Tendonitis often includes rest, pain medication, and physical therapy. However, acupuncture offers an innovative and holistic approach grounded in science, providing a complementary or alternative treatment option.
A 2013 study explored the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating Achilles Tendonitis. The research found that patients receiving acupuncture treatment experienced significant improvements in pain and function compared to those receiving conventional treatment alone. This evidence supports the use of acupuncture as a viable and beneficial option in the management of Achilles Tendonitis.
Understanding the Mechanism of Acupuncture
Acupuncture stimulates specific anatomic sites, known as acupuncture points or acupoints, to activate the body's natural painkillers, reduce inflammation, and improve local blood circulation. This stimulation can release endorphins and other neurochemicals that promote healing and pain relief.
A 2008 study by Zhao Z.Q. demonstrated the neural mechanisms underlying acupuncture analgesia, providing scientific evidence for these effects.
Specific Acupuncture Points for Achilles Tendonitis
In the case of Achilles Tendonitis, acupuncture can target points that correlate to the pain area and the underlying muscles contributing to the condition. Some of the key acupuncture points that may be used include:
Kidney 3 (KI3): Located between the inner anklebone and the Achilles tendon, this point is often used to strengthen the kidney system, which in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is associated with the bones and tendons.
Bladder 60 (BL60): Situated in the depression between the outer anklebone and the Achilles tendon, this point can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon.
Gallbladder 34 (GB34): Known as the influential point of the tendons, GB34 is located on the outer side of the lower leg and can be used to treat tendon issues, including Achilles Tendonitis.
Spleen 6 (SP6): This point, found on the inner side of the lower leg, can be used to address underlying imbalances that may contribute to Achilles Tendonitis.
Kidney 9 (KI9): Located in the lower leg above SP6. This point offers direct access to the soleus muscle that is deep to the gastrocnemius muscle.
Bladder 57 (BL57): Located in the calf muscle, this point is often used to relieve calf muscle tension and can be beneficial in treating Achilles Tendonitis.
Bladder 58 (BL58): Situated near BL57, this point can also be used to address tension and pain in the calf muscles, contributing to the treatment of Achilles Tendonitis.
Local Ashi Points: These are tender points near the affected area that may not correspond to specific traditional acupoints but can be highly effective in treating localized pain.
Holistic Healing Approach
Acupuncture not only treats the symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis but also addresses the root cause, providing more holistic healing. By targeting specific points related to the Achilles tendon and the muscles and meridians involved, acupuncture can:
Reduce Pain and Inflammation: By stimulating the body's natural anti-inflammatory response, acupuncture can alleviate pain and swelling in the affected area.
Improve Blood Circulation: Enhanced blood flow to the Achilles tendon can promote faster healing and recovery.
Restore Balance: In TCM, Achilles tendonitis may be seen as an imbalance in the body's energy flow. Acupuncture can help restore this balance, supporting overall well-being.
Prevent Recurrence: By addressing underlying imbalances and contributing factors, acupuncture can also help prevent future occurrences of Achilles Tendonitis.
Traditional acupuncture provides a scientifically grounded and holistic approach to treating Achilles Tendonitis. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to the condition, it offers a complementary treatment option that can provide significant relief, promote healing, and contribute to long-term wellness.
Dry Needling: A Specialized Acupuncture Technique for Achilles Tendonitis
Dry needling, a specialized acupuncture technique, has emerged as a powerful tool in the treatment of Achilles Tendonitis. This method involves inserting an acupuncture needle directly into myofascial trigger points, often described as 'knots' within the muscle, which can be sensitive and cause referred pain. Here's how dry needling can be applied specifically to Achilles Tendonitis:
Understanding Trigger Points in Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis often involves the calf muscles (read more on our blog), particularly the Gastrocnemius and Soleus. These muscles can develop trigger points that refer pain to the Achilles tendon area. According to Travell and Simons' Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual, these trigger points can be a significant source of pain and dysfunction in Achilles Tendonitis.
Targeting Specific Muscles
In treating Achilles Tendonitis, dry needling can be applied to specific muscles contributing to tendon tightness:
Gastrocnemius: This muscle, part of the calf, can develop trigger points that refer pain to the Achilles tendon. Dry needling can release these trigger points, reducing tension and pain.
Soleus: Another calf muscle, the Soleus, can also contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. Dry needling can target trigger points in the Soleus, alleviating tightness and discomfort.
Other Surrounding Muscles: Depending on the individual's specific condition, other muscles in the foot and lower leg may also be involved. A skilled practitioner can identify and target these areas with dry needling.
How Dry Needling Works
Dry needling works by stimulating the trigger points, leading to a release of the tight muscle fibers. This release can:
Reduce Pain: By releasing the trigger points, dry needling can alleviate the referred pain that contributes to Achilles Tendonitis.
Improve Range of Motion: Tight muscles can limit movement, and dry needling can help restore normal range of motion in the ankle and foot.
Enhance Healing: By reducing muscle tension and improving blood flow to the area, dry needling can promote faster healing of the Achilles tendon.
Prevent Recurrence: By addressing the underlying muscle tightness, dry needling can also help prevent future occurrences of Achilles Tendonitis.
Dry needling offers a targeted and effective approach to treating Achilles Tendonitis. By understanding and addressing the specific trigger points involved, this specialized acupuncture technique can provide significant relief from pain, improve function, and contribute to long-term healing and prevention.
While dry needling can be highly effective on its own, it often works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Integrating dry needling with traditional acupuncture, physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises can provide a holistic approach to treating Achilles Tendonitis.
Biomechanics and Achilles Tendon Pain
Achilles Tendonitis is often a symptom of underlying biomechanical issues, including improper gait or exercise mechanics. Understanding these factors can be essential in both treating and preventing this painful condition.
Gait Analysis
Your gait refers to the way you walk or run, a complex interplay of muscles, joints, and nervous system controls. Each stride involves a cycle of movements, and if there's an imbalance or misalignment at any point, it can result in abnormal stresses and strains on your Achilles tendon.
Overpronation: Individuals with overpronation, where the foot rolls excessively inward with each step, often experience increased strain on the Achilles tendon. This inward rotation of the foot can create a pulling effect on the tendon.
Supination: Conversely, underpronation or supination can also lead to Achilles Tendonitis. This condition may result in the foot being overly stiff and unable to absorb shock effectively, placing extra tension on the Achilles tendon.
Exercise Mechanics
Improper form during activities like running, cycling, or resistance training can lead to Achilles Tendonitis.
Running Technique: Running on banked surfaces, or with a stride that puts undue stress on the Achilles tendon, can create abnormal pull and strain.
Cycling Alignment: Cycling with your feet turned in or out, or with improperly adjusted pedals and cleats, can lead to imbalances that contribute to Achilles tendon stress.
Resistance Training: Performing exercises with poor form or using inappropriate weight can lead to muscle imbalances, affecting the Achilles tendon.
Muscle Imbalances and Flexibility
Weakness or tightness in certain muscles can alter movement patterns and place additional stress on the Achilles tendon.
Calf Muscle Imbalance: Weakness or tightness in the calf muscles, particularly the Gastrocnemius and Soleus, can contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. Targeted strengthening and stretching can alleviate this issue.
Hip and Core Stability: Weakness in the hip and core muscles can lead to improper alignment of the entire leg, placing additional stress on the Achilles tendon.
Hamstring and Quadriceps Flexibility: Lack of flexibility in these muscles can alter the biomechanics of the leg, leading to increased strain on the Achilles tendon.
Footwear and Orthotics
Wearing improper footwear or lacking necessary orthotic support can also contribute to biomechanical imbalances. Shoes that don't provide proper support or are worn out can exacerbate the strain on the Achilles tendon.
Addressing Biomechanical Issues
Addressing these underlying biomechanical issues is a critical part of treating Achilles Tendonitis. It's not enough to simply alleviate the pain – to prevent recurrence, it's necessary to identify and correct the improper gait or exercise mechanics.
Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help in assessing and correcting biomechanical imbalances.
Acupuncture and Dry Needling: Alongside physical therapy interventions, acupuncture and dry needling can play a significant role in correcting these issues, alleviating pain, restoring function, and preventing future injuries.
Proper Training and Equipment: Ensuring proper training techniques and using appropriate footwear and equipment can also be vital in managing and preventing Achilles Tendonitis.
By understanding and addressing the biomechanical factors contributing to Achilles Tendonitis, individuals can take proactive steps towards healing and prevention, fostering a more balanced and pain-free movement.
Through scientifically grounded approaches like acupuncture and dry needling, it's possible to address the root causes of Achilles Tendonitis and foster a stronger, more balanced body.
Embrace the Healing Power of Acupuncture for Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis, and its chronic form, Achilles Tendinosis, can be a painful and limiting condition for athletes, runners, and anyone leading an active lifestyle. Traditional treatments may offer temporary relief, but acupuncture, including specialized techniques like dry needling, provides a scientifically grounded and holistic approach to healing.
By taking a holistic approach and addressing underlying biomechanics and trigger points, acupuncture can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote overall recovery.
At Morningside Acupuncture, we're dedicated to supporting your journey to optimal health and peak performance. Whether you're dealing with Achilles Tendonitis or other types of pain, our team of experts is here to help you get back on your feet, stronger and faster than before.
Don't let pain hold you back. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover how acupuncture can revolutionize your recovery process.
Our experienced practitioners can provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Over to you
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Sources:
Travell, J. G., Simons, D. G. (1993). Myofascial pain and dysfunction: The trigger point manual. London: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
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