Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, affects millions of adults annually. While traditional treatments exist, interest has grown in alternative approaches, including dimethyl sulfoxide, or DMSO. Exploring DMSO’s potential involves understanding its nature, how it might interact with the body, and current scientific perspectives on its effectiveness and safety.
Understanding DMSO
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a colorless liquid that originated as a byproduct of the paper-making process. First isolated in 1867, it gained broader recognition in the 1960s for its distinctive chemical characteristics. A primary feature of DMSO is its remarkable ability to penetrate biological membranes, including human skin.
This property allows it to transport other substances along with it into the body. Beyond its solvent capabilities, DMSO has been investigated for therapeutic applications.
How DMSO Might Help Plantar Fasciitis
DMSO is thought to offer benefits for conditions like plantar fasciitis through several proposed mechanisms. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce the inflammation often associated with heel pain. Additionally, DMSO may act as an analgesic, potentially relieving pain by blocking nerve signals.
Its ability to rapidly penetrate tissues means that when applied topically, DMSO might deliver its purported therapeutic effects directly to the affected area. This localized action could theoretically aid in reducing swelling and promoting healing in the damaged plantar fascia tissue.
Effectiveness and Potential Risks
Despite anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies, scientific evidence supporting DMSO’s effectiveness specifically for plantar fasciitis remains limited. One recent placebo-controlled trial involving 62 patients with plantar fasciitis investigated a topical solution containing plant terpenes with 15% DMSO as a permeation enhancer. This study reported a significant decrease in pain scores for 78.1% of patients by day 10, suggesting therapeutic promise for the combination. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved DMSO for treating interstitial cystitis, a bladder condition, and not for plantar fasciitis or other musculoskeletal conditions.
The use of DMSO carries several potential risks and side effects. Common side effects from topical application include skin irritation, itching, a garlic-like taste in the mouth, and a garlic-like body odor. More serious, though less frequent, side effects can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a lowered heart rate.
There is also a concern that industrial-grade DMSO, often found without prescription, may contain impurities that could be absorbed into the body, leading to potentially serious health issues. DMSO can also increase the absorption of other topical medications, potentially leading to increased effects and side effects of those drugs, including blood thinners, steroids, and sedatives. Combining DMSO with sulindac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, may reduce sulindac’s effectiveness and potentially increase the risk of nerve pain.
Guidelines for Using DMSO
For individuals considering DMSO, obtaining pharmaceutical-grade DMSO is important to minimize the risk of impurities. Before widespread application, a patch test on a small skin area is advisable to check for allergic reactions or excessive irritation. Pure DMSO can cause skin irritation, so dilution with water is often recommended, with typical topical concentrations ranging from 50% to 90%.
When applying DMSO, ensure the skin area is clean and free of other substances, as DMSO can carry them into the bloodstream. It is recommended to use white socks if applying to feet, as DMSO can absorb colored dyes. Proper ventilation during application is also suggested.
Consulting a Healthcare Professional
Before considering or using DMSO for plantar fasciitis or any medical condition, it is important to consult with a doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Self-treating with unapproved substances can introduce risks and may delay appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional can provide guidance based on your specific condition, medical history, and potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. They can also discuss evidence-based treatment options and help determine a safe and effective course of action.