Are you aware that acupuncture is an effective treatment for Achilles tendonitis? Even if you are a sports enthusiast, our guess is probably not, so obviously there is a lot to learn. Keep reading to learn more about Acupuncture for Achilles tendonitis and what you should know.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
If you are a runner, basketball 
player, or any kind of active person, you know exactly where the Achilles tendon is. It is located at the back of your foot and it connects your heel bone with the muscles at the back of the calf. It is thought of as the strongest tendon in the body, but it still can be strained from overuse.
When you overdo any activity, you can strain the tendon and end up with Achilles tendonitis. Weakness in your calf muscle can also contribute to an inflamed tendon.
If inflammation develops from overuse, the symptoms include:
- Pain
- Difficulty walking
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
Additional causes of Achilles tendonitis include:
- Repetitive stress
- Poor training habits
- Improper shoes
- Running on uneven surfaces
- Sudden increases in training intensity
How Does Acupuncture Help Achilles Tendonitis?
The traditional treatment for an Achilles tendon inflammation is centered on the RICE therapy (rest, ice, compression, elevation), over-the-counter pain medications, and physical therapy.
The difference between traditional treatment and acupuncture for Achilles tendonitis is acupuncture offers a healing response, not just a suppression of the symptoms.
Studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for Achilles tendonitis. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe that disruptions to the natural flow of energy or Qi causes disease and pain.
At The Acupuncture Clinic, we use paper thin needles inserted into specific points to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi. This stimulation can release endorphins (the body’s natural pain killers) and other neurochemicals to promote healing and pain relief. We treat Achilles tendonitis by repairing the damage, strengthening the body, and increasing circulation to the tendon and surrounding tissue.
Your specialist may use this adjunct treatment along with exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons like heel lifts, toe-to-toe wall stretches, and runner’s stretches.
In addition, other tendons can become inflamed including the elbow, wrist, and shoulder. Acupuncture helps in all these areas.
Acupuncture should be used as a complementary therapy along with traditional medical treatment, not necessarily as a substitute.
Don’t let pain keep you from doing what you love.
Contact The Acupuncture Clinic at (803) 256-1000 if you would like to try acupuncture at our clinic in Columbia, SC for Achilles tendonitis or any other painful area in your body.