Adding an acupuncture protocol with electrostimulation to standard exercises enhances pain relief and function in adults with plantar fasciopathy more than exercise alone.
In the randomized, multisite controlled study, patients were divided into two groups - one that followed a local electroacupuncture protocol in addition to a home exercise regime, and another that only adhered to the home exercise programme. The acupuncture sessions, combined with electrostimulation, were conducted bi-weekly for a six-week period, followed by another six-week follow-up, totalling to a twelve-week study period. The home-based exercise regime invloved strength-building and stretching exercises carried out over five weeks.
Discussions around the results showed a noticeable decline in reported pain levels and improved foot function among the group that underwent the electroacupuncture treatment, in addition to the standard home exercises, as compared to the group that only followed the home-based exercise regime. A remarkable majority of the participants in the acupuncture group expressed satisfaction with their treatment, indicating the effectiveness and acceptability of the electroacupuncture protocol. These findings contribute to existing knowledge suggesting that acupuncture can be a valuable supplemental treatment option in addressing commonly encountered outpatient clinic issues, such as plantar fasciopathy.
