Acupuncture Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial with Six Months Follow-Up

Figure 6

A hypothetical diagram illustrating the possible mechanism of acupuncture treatment for plantar fasciitis. Repeated stimulation from inflammation and tissue irritation of the heel will sensitize neurons in the thalamus and habituate them to a state of hyperexcitability, leading to a state of chronic pain. Repeated stimulation from specific acupoints will send input to the same thalamic focus and normalize the excitability of hyperexcitable neurons.