Do You Have Acute or Chronic Back Pain? Orthopedic Acupuncture Can Help!

Back pain is one of the most common health complaints. In fact, it's one of the number one reasons people make E.R. visits- unfortunately, it often goes untreated.  Whether it’s a sudden, sharp pain after lifting something heavy (or just unloading the dishwasher) or a long-term ache that impacts your daily life, finding the right treatment is essential. Many people turn to temporary solutions like over-the-counter pain relievers, but what if there was a way to address the root cause of your pain and promote long-term healing?

This is where orthopedic acupuncture for back pain comes in. Unlike meridian based traditional acupuncture, orthopedic acupuncture combines time-tested acupuncture principles with modern orthopedic knowledge to target specific anatomical structures, reduce inflammation, and restore function.

Why Choose Orthopedic Acupuncture for Back Pain?

Orthopedic acupuncture stands out because it doesn’t just mask pain — it treats the underlying structures causing it. Some benefits include:

• Targeted relief: Needles are placed at specific points along muscles, fascia, and joints to release tension and improve blood flow.

• Reduced inflammation: Acupuncture can help regulate the body’s natural healing response and decrease inflammation.

• Restored mobility: By addressing both pain and stiffness, orthopedic acupuncture can help restore normal movement patterns.

The Importance of a Skilled Practitioner

Not all acupuncture is the same. Choosing a qualified practitioner trained in orthopedic acupuncture is critical for both safety and results. Here’s why:

• Screening for red flags: Back pain can sometimes indicate serious conditions like fractures, infections, or nerve compression. A trained professional will recognize when additional medical evaluation is needed.

• Correct diagnosis: Orthopedic acupuncturists assess posture, movement, and muscle imbalances to pinpoint the actual cause of pain.

• Integrated care: The best providers work alongside orthopedic specialists, chiropractors, and physical therapists to make appropriate recommendations and referrals, ensuring you get comprehensive care — not just temporary relief.

Freebie At-Home Tips for Managing Back Pain

While professional treatment is essential, there are also research-backed strategies you can use at home:

1. Stay hydrated – New studies show that proper hydration supports spinal disc health and reduces stiffness. Water Recommendations: ½ body weight in oz per day and 15 oz for every 30 min of activity!

2. Keep moving – Gentle movement and walking help prevent stiffness. Avoid long periods of bed rest.

3. Skip the ice – Recent rese arch suggests icing can slow down healing. Heat and gentle mobility are often better for recovery.

4. Consider anti-inflammatories – Natural anti-inflammatory foods (like turmeric and omega-3s) or supplements can support recovery. My personal favorite is Zyflamend- which can be purchased online here. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting anything new.

5. Topicals- Wu-Yang Medicated Plasters- but read the instructions and do not use if you have a latex allergy.

6. Skip the Alcohol, Coffee and Sugar- I hate to be the bearer of bad news- but they cause inflammation- so at very least reduce.

Back pain doesn’t have to control your life. Whether your pain is acute or chronic, orthopedic acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and holistic approach to treating the root cause — not just masking the symptoms. By working with a skilled practitioner who collaborates with orthopedic providers and physical therapists, you’ll get the personalized care you need for long-term relief.

Ready to take the next step toward pain-free living? Book your appointment today with Dr. Sara Mizner, L.Ac., D.A.O.M., and discover how orthopedic acupuncture can help you heal naturally.

Plantar Fasciitis or Something Else? Understanding Heel & Foot Pain

Are you struggling with heel pain when you first get out of bed or after standing for long periods? Many people assume it’s plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of foot pain. But here’s the truth: not all heel or arch pain is plantar fasciitis.

Different conditions in the lower leg and foot can feel almost identical to plantar fasciitis—yet they have very different causes. And that means they need different treatment approaches for real, lasting relief.

Common Foot Pain Conditions That Mimic Plantar Fasciitis

If your heel or arch pain hasn’t improved with traditional plantar fasciitis treatments like stretching, orthotics, or night splints, you may actually have another condition, such as:

• Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction – Weakness and pain along the arch of the foot that often feels like plantar fasciitis.

• Calf Muscle Trigger Points – Tight knots in the calf muscles can refer pain down into the heel and mimic plantar fasciitis symptoms.

• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome – Nerve compression near the ankle that causes burning, tingling, or sharp heel pain.

• Heel Spurs or Stress Fractures – Structural issues that can overlap with or be mistaken for plantar fasciitis.

Because these conditions all share similar heel pain symptoms, getting the right diagnosis is key to choosing the best treatment.

Why Orthopedic Acupuncture is a Game-Changer for Heel Pain Relief

When it comes to effective plantar fasciitis treatment and other foot pain conditions, orthopedic acupuncture and trigger point needling offer one of the fastest and most precise solutions.

Here’s why:

• Accurate Assessment: Every session begins with a movement and muscle function exam to find the true source of your pain.

• Trigger Point Release: Fine acupuncture needles are used to release tight, knotted muscles that put stress on the heel and arch.

• Improved Circulation & Nerve Function: Needling restores healthy blood flow, reduces inflammation, and calms irritated nerves.

• Immediate Relief: Many patients notice significant heel pain relief after their very first treatment.

Unlike generic stretches or cortisone injections, orthopedic acupuncture is tailored to your unique pain pattern, giving you lasting results.

Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis in the Bay Area!

If you’ve been searching for “plantar fasciitis treatment near me” or are tired of living with chronic foot and heel pain, it’s time to try a proven approach that targets the root cause.

Sara Mizner, L.Ac., D.A.O.M is a leading specialist in orthopedic acupuncture for plantar fasciitis and heel pain relief. With advanced training and years of clinical expertise, she helps patients get back on their feet—without surgery, medication, or months of frustration.

Schedule an appointment today and experience immediate relief!

Orthopedic Acupuncture: A Powerful Approach for Injury Recovery

Orthopedic acupuncture, including trigger point needling, is an incredibly effective treatment for both acute and chronic injuries. This modality is designed to address pain, muscle dysfunction, and movement limitations by targeting the root of the problem within the musculoskeletal system. Whether you are recovering from a sports injury, struggling with long-standing muscle pain, or experiencing movement restrictions from overuse, orthopedic acupuncture can help restore function, reduce pain, and accelerate healing.

At its core, orthopedic acupuncture sits at the intersection of acupuncture and physiotherapy. Originally developed by physical therapists, this approach combines the precision of acupuncture with the functional rehabilitation principles of physiotherapy. By needling specific trigger points and muscular structures, the treatment releases tension, improves circulation, and reactivates muscles that may not be functioning properly. When combined with the wisdom of meridian-based acupuncture, the treatment not only addresses local pain but also promotes whole-body balance, resulting in a more complete and effective healing experience.

Patients receiving orthopedic acupuncture should expect the treatment to feel different from traditional acupuncture. While the insertion of needles may sometimes create strong sensations such as muscle twitching, heaviness, or a deep ache, these responses are therapeutic and indicate that the nervous system and musculature are being effectively stimulated. Many patients describe this as an intense but relieving experience, often followed by a noticeable improvement in range of motion and reduction in pain.

Sara Mizner, L.Ac., D.A.O.M., specializes in orthopedic acupuncture and brings a unique and comprehensive approach to her treatments. By combining trigger point needling with traditional meridian-based acupuncture, Sara ensures that each session is structurally precise and can be integrated into the body's various systems. She incorporates trauma-informed care, creating a respectful environment for all patients, understanding that healing extends beyond the physical body. Known as a highly regarded practitioner, her practice reflects the diversity of the bay area and includes some of the world’s top-performing athletes who rely on her expertise to keep their bodies performing at the highest level.

If you are preparing for an orthopedic acupuncture session, there are a few steps you can take to get the most out of your treatment. Be sure to eat a light meal beforehand to help stabilize your energy during the session. Plan to stay hydrated and, when possible, give yourself time to rest afterward to allow your body to integrate the treatment. By arriving prepared, you can ensure that your session is both effective and restorative.

Heaven & Earth Integrative Chinese Medicine Won Reader’s Choice Best Acupuncture Practices in Oakland and the East Bay in 2024

We are thrilled to finally celebrate that Heaven & Earth Integrative Chinese Medicine won Reader’s Choice Best Acupuncture Practices in Oakland and the East Bay in 2024! We are so grateful to our community of patients that expressed support by voting for our practice!

Thank you for being a part of what makes the Bay a truly exceptional community! This award only inspires us to look forward to further improving the services we provide and offer even better care in 2025!

We would like to acknowledge our community partner Dr. Ki Cheng at Opus Physio for also winning in the category of Best Physical Therapy Clinic. Ki is an experienced Doctor of Physical Therapy serving the musculoskeletal needs of the Bay Area and he has helped many of our shared patients!

We are so grateful to have been selected amongst respected peers and also want to say congratulations to all the winners!