Foot Pain and Massage or Acupuncture

Foot Pain and Massage or Acupuncture

Warmer weather encourages activities such as walking and running; and while exercise has its benefits, it may sometimes produce foot discomfort and pain due to a condition called Plantar Fasciitis.

      

The plantar fascia is a structure that runs from the front of the heel bone to the ball of the foot and helps to support the longitudinal arch of the foot during walking.

As we age there is a decrease in the fat pad that covers the heel which causes irritation of the small nerves that travel under the plantar fascia.

      

Obesity or a sudden increase of body weight, a tight Achilles tendon, improper footwear, change in the frequency or the way you walk or run, or an occupation where you stand on your feet for several hours on hard surfaces, may all cause plantar fasciitis.

Though plantar fasciitis may, in rare cases, be caused by a heel spur, the main cause is a chronic inflammation of the fascia as it attaches to the heel.

Symptoms include pain, generally located in the centre or the inner side of the bottom of the foot, mostly close to the heel.

Treatment may include realigning the foot as it goes through the gait cycle by adjusting the footwear or introducing custom made orthotics to support the arch and reduce pressure. Use of ice, for 10 -15 minutes, to decrease the inflammation after prolonged standing or exercise, and the use of heat in the morning to release restrictions may be beneficial.

Stretching of the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon as well as strengthening of the foot and leg muscles may bring relief. Wearing a slightly elevated heel on your shoes or using a heel pad may also help.    

If you have a leg length difference use a heel lift, avoid hard surfaces, and lose weight if you are overweight.

      

Book an appointment with your massage therapist or acupuncturist to treat the foot pain and discomfort. Paraffin wax, friction therapy and muscle stripping, as well as cupping, are generally used to break up the adhesions and may all be a part of your therapeutic massage session.

This article should not be used to diagnose, it is only for educational purposes. If you have any of these signs or symptoms you should consult your health practitioner for a proper assessment.

End of School Specials

School is almost over

and Prom Season is here!

To celebrate the end of the School Year, Myoflex is happy to offer the following Student/Teacher Specials, great for Prom or End-of-School Events:

Make-up Application: $20.00

Manicure/Pedicure Combo: $45.00

45-min Massage: $50.00

(these offers are valid until the end of June)

To book your appointment, please call:

450-9272

Myoflex Massage & Rejuvenation Clinic

924 Prospect Street, Suite 105, Fredericton, NB

www.myoflexmassage.ca

Drugless Back Pain Treatments

Drugless Back Pain Treatments

Back pain is one of the most frequent complaints with approximately 90 % of adults experiencing back pain at some point in their lives. In rare cases back pain can be caused by cancer, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis or a herniated disc in the spinal column. However, most cases of back pain are caused by functional and postural imbalances due to the involvement of muscles, fascia and ligaments, generally referred to as soft tissues. Prolonged sitting at the desk and computer, lifting heavy objects without proper technique, or repetitive movements can all contribute to back stiffness and eventually pain.

Massage Therapy combined with Acupuncture and Exercise Programs can reduce the level and frequency of back pain.

Here is a brief description of what to expect during your treatment:

The treatment usually starts with a moist heat application, followed with gentle stretching (myofascial release) of the back and leg muscles, and massage. The session may also include acupuncture, which involves the insertion of small sterile needles along the spine, as well as in the buttock and leg muscles. To achieve stronger stimulation, the needles are left for 15 to 20 minutes.

Acupuncture and massage are great tools in managing back pain by stimulating blood circulation, releasing muscle spasms and increasing levels of natural pain killers.

In order to provide extended soft tissue manipulation and improve blood and lymph circulation, a special tape (Kinesiotape) is applied to the back muscles. This tape provides support without restricting the body’s movement and is effective for 4-5 days.

At the end of the treatment a program of stretching and strengthening exercises, tailored to the patient’s needs, is given as home care.