Foot pain is a common issue that affects many people, causing discomfort and hindering daily activities. Whether it’s due to long hours of standing, ill-fitting shoes, or underlying conditions like plantar fasciitis, the impact of foot pain can be far-reaching. In a bustling city like Tokyo, where people are constantly on the move, finding effective relief is crucial. One alternative treatment gaining popularity is acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Oriental Medicine. With its growing presence in Tokyo, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to alleviating foot pain, helping individuals regain mobility and comfort. This article explores how acupuncture can provide relief from foot pain and why it’s becoming an increasingly sought-after solution in the heart of Japan’s capital.
Understanding foot pain
Foot pain refers to any pain or discomfort in one or more parts of the foot, such as your toes, heels, arches, or soles. Many causes are mild, but see a doctor if it lasts more than a week.
Your feet bear weight when you’re standing and when you walk to where you need to go. Because of this, foot pain is common.
The pain can range from mild to severe, and it may last a short time or be an ongoing issue. Many measures can help relieve your foot pain.
Causes of foot pain
Foot pain can occur due to certain lifestyle choices or a medical condition. Common causes include:
Lifestyle choices
One of the main causes of foot pain is wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. Wearing high-heeled shoes can often cause foot pain because they place a great deal of pressure on the toes.
You can also develop foot pain if you get injured during high-impact exercise or sports activities, such as jogging or intense aerobics.
Common medical issues
Various medical issues are closely associated with foot pain.
Your feet are especially susceptible to the pain caused by arthritis. There are 33 joints in the foot, and arthritis can affect any of them.
Diabetes mellitus can also cause complications and several disorders of the feet. People with diabetes are more prone to have:
- Nerve damage in the feet
- Clogged or hardened arteries in the legs and feet
- Foot ulcers or sores
You’re also more at risk for having foot pain if you:
- Are overweight or have obesity
- Are pregnant
- Have a foot injury, such as a sprain, fracture, or tendinitis
Other potential causes of foot pain include:
- Corns
- Calluses
- Bunions
- Warts
- Ingrown toenails
- Medications that cause swelling of the feet
- Morton’s neuroma, which is a thickening around the nerve tissue between the toes near the ball of the foot
- Hammer toes
- Athlete’s foot
- Haglund’s deformity, which is an enlargement of the back of the heel bone
- Peripheral arterial disease (pad)
- Fallen arches
- Plantar fasciitis
- Gout, especially affecting the big toe near the ball of the foot
How to ease foot pain at home
Your at-home treatment options will vary depending on the pain you’re experiencing and its cause. However, following these tips may help relieve your discomfort:
- Apply ice to the affected area.
- Take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever.
- Use foot pads to prevent rubbing on the affected area.
- Elevate the foot that’s causing you to have pain.
- Rest your foot as much as possible.
When to talk with your doctor
Many people who regularly experience foot pain are aware of what triggers it, and they know the best way to manage their pain. However, you should see a doctor as soon as possible in the following situations:
- Your pain comes on suddenly and is severe.
- Your foot pain is due to a recent injury.
- You can’t place any weight on your foot after an injury.
- You have a medical condition that interferes with blood flow, and you experience foot pain.
- The area that’s causing you pain has an open wound.
- The area that’s causing you pain is discolored or has other symptoms of inflammation.
- You have a fever in addition to foot pain.
How to prevent chronic foot pain
Follow these tips to help prevent ongoing foot pain:
- Choose comfortable, roomy, and well-cushioned shoes.
- Avoid shoes with high heels and narrow toe areas.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Stretch your toes before engaging in vigorous exercise.
- Practice good foot hygiene.
- Always wear footwear when you’re outdoors to protect your feet.
Although foot pain is common, it’s not a typical part of life. You should seek medical help if you have foot pain that hasn’t resolved after a week or two of at-home treatment.
Acupuncture for foot pain in Tokyo
How acupuncture works
Acupuncture operates on the principle of vital energy flow. According to traditional oriental medicine, disruptions or imbalances in vital energy can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture seeks to restore this balance by inserting thin needles into specific acupuncture points connected to the body’s energy channels or meridians.
When addressing foot pain, acupuncture targets points associated with the feet and lower extremities. Stimulation of these points triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, while promoting the flow of vital energy and blood to the affected area. Additionally, acupuncture reduces inflammation and optimizes the nervous system’s function, contributing to pain relief and enhanced mobility.
Acupuncture for foot pain relief
Plantar Fasciitis: Acupuncture focuses on acupuncture points corresponding to the plantar fascia, effectively reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. Consistent acupuncture sessions can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort for those with plantar fasciitis.
Arthritis: As a complementary therapy, acupuncture aids in managing arthritis-related foot pain. It enhances blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports joint mobility. Many arthritis sufferers report diminished pain and stiffness following acupuncture treatments.
Neuropathy: Acupuncture can stimulate damaged nerves and enhance blood flow, potentially reducing numbness, tingling, and discomfort in neuropathic feet.
Foot Injuries: By promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling, acupuncture expedites the healing process for foot injuries. It can also alleviate residual pain and discomfort once the injury has fully healed.
Overuse and Poor Footwear: Regular acupuncture sessions can address pain associated with overuse and ill-fitting footwear by tackling muscle tension, inflammation, and overall foot health.
Benefits of Acupuncture for foot pain
Non-Invasive: Acupuncture offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach, making it suitable for those seeking natural therapies or wishing to avoid medications and their potential side effects.
Minimal Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated, acupuncture may lead to mild bruising or soreness at the needle insertion sites, with lower risks of adverse reactions compared to certain pharmaceutical treatments.
Holistic Approach: Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to pain management, addressing underlying imbalances in the body. It not only relieves foot pain but also enhances overall well-being.
Customised Treatment: Acupuncture treatments are personalised based on the individual’s specific foot pain type and cause. This tailored approach improves the likelihood of successful pain relief.
Enhanced Quality of Life: By reducing foot pain and boosting mobility, acupuncture significantly improves an individual’s quality of life, enabling them to engage in daily activities with greater comfort.
If you’re grappling with foot pain and seeking a holistic solution, acupuncture may be the answer. This traditional practice has demonstrated its efficacy in alleviating foot pain associated with various causes, from plantar fasciitis to arthritis and neuropathy. By restoring the balance of the body’s energy systems and promoting natural healing mechanisms, acupuncture can help you regain mobility and lead a more comfortable, active life.
Before beginning acupuncture treatments, consult a qualified and experienced acupuncturist. They can assess your specific condition and devise a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. With the right approach and consistent sessions, acupuncture could be your path to stepping forward toward a pain-free, mobile future.
Whilst acupuncture can be highly effective, it may not be a standalone solution for all cases of foot pain. Often, it is most beneficial when used alongside a comprehensive approach to pain management, including lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and other medical interventions. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual requirements.
Discovering foot acupuncture points
Some key points used to address common foot issues are:
- Yongquan KI1 – Also known as bubbling spring, this point is located on the sole of the foot, in the depression at the centre of the arch. Stimulating this point is believed to benefit the entire body and is often used as a general pain reliever. We vertically insert a thin needle into this point for a few minutes to relieve pain.
- Taichong LR3 – This point is situated on the top of the foot, between the base of the first and second toes. Stimulating this point helps in addressing tension and headaches that sometimes manifest in foot pain. The stimulation of this point generally involves a gentle, oblique insertion of a thin needle for a short duration.
- Zusanli ST36 – This point is not directly located on the foot. It is situated just below the knee. It is a powerhouse for overall well-being and is often used to reduce inflammation and improve circulation throughout the body, indirectly benefiting foot pain. Stimulation of this point involves a gentle, angled insertion of a thin needle for a few minutes.
- Chengshan BL57 – This point is located on the posterior midline of the leg, midway between Weizhong and Kunlun. Stimulating this point, relaxes the sinews, activates the channels, and eliminates pain. It benefits the calf and heel, offering much-needed relief.
Wrap-up
Foot pain doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoying life in Tokyo. At Fuji Wellness, we offer a compassionate, holistic approach to foot pain relief, combining the healing power of acupuncture with personalized care. Our experienced practitioners work with you to understand the root causes of your discomfort and tailor each treatment to your specific needs. By restoring balance and improving circulation, acupuncture can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall well-being. Don’t let foot pain limit your potential—experience the rejuvenating benefits of acupuncture at Fuji Wellness and step into a pain-free future. Let us guide you toward comfort, vitality, and a life free from foot pain.
Fuji Wellness:
- Address: 132-0031 Matsushima 1-chome, 21-14, Tokyo, Japan
- Contact: Click here
- Email: sunnyphamsensei@gmail.com
