The use of dry needling and myofascial meridians in a case of plantar fasciitis.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this case report is to describe the use of dry needling based on myofascial meridians for management of plantar fasciitis.


METHODS
A 53-year-old man presented with bilateral chronic foot pain for more than 2 years. After 2 months of conventional treatment (ultrasound, plantar fascia and Achilles tendon stretching, and intrinsic foot strengthening), symptoms eventually improved; however, symptoms returned after prolonged standing or walking. Almost all previous treatment methods were localized in the site of pain that targeted only the plantar fascia. Initial examination of this individual revealed that multiple tender points were found along the insertion of Achilles tendon, medial gastrocnemius, biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and ischial tuberosity.


RESULTS
Dry needling of the trigger points was applied. After 4 treatments over 2 weeks, the patient felt a 60% to 70% reduction in pain. His pressure pain threshold was increased, and pain was alleviated. The patient returned to full daily activities. The rapid relief of this patient's pain after 2 weeks of dry needling to additional locations along the superficial back line suggests that a more global view on management was beneficial to this patient.


CONCLUSIONS
Dry needling based on myofascial meridians improved the symptoms for a patient with recurrent plantar fasciitis.
Associate Professor, Physiotherapy Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, Iran.
Behnam
B
Akhbari
Professor, Physiotherapy Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, Iran.
Mahyar
M
Salavati
PhD student, Physiotherapy Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, Iran.
Kamran
K
Ezzati
PhD student, Physiotherapy Department, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, Iran.
Shahrzad
S
Mohammadi Rad
Meridians; Myofascial pain syndrome; Plantar fasciitis