Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain, especially heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed. For those experiencing chronic foot pain, finding relief can feel like an uphill battle.
Many treatments are available, but understanding when surgery might be necessary is crucial. This blog will explore whether surgery for plantar fasciitis is the right option for you.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick ligament that connects your heel bone to your toes, becomes irritated or inflamed, causing a sharp, stabbing pain often felt in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by repetitive strain or overuse. Activities like long-distance running on hard surfaces, wearing footwear with poor support, or standing for extended periods can contribute to this condition.
Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with non-surgical treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or custom orthotics. However, there are instances where surgery might become necessary.
Do You Really Need Surgery?
Before jumping into surgery for plantar fasciitis, it is important to exhaust other options. Many people find relief through conservative treatments, such as:
- Resting the affected foot
- Icing the inflamed area to reduce swelling
- Stretching the calf muscles and plantar fascia
- Using proper footwear with arch support
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve)
If these do not work after six to twelve months, your foot doctor might recommend surgical options.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
Surgery for plantar fasciitis is typically considered as a last resort option. Doctors usually explore this option only for patients with severe, chronic pain that affects daily life.
Types of Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
Two main types of surgery are commonly performed for plantar fasciitis:
Plantar Fascia Release
This surgical procedure involves partially cutting the plantar fascia to relieve tension and reduce inflammation. During this surgery, doctors may remove damaged tissue, depending on the severity of the condition.
Gastrocnemius Recession
This procedure is considered if calf tightness is contributing to the plantar fasciitis. This surgery focuses on lengthening the calf muscle and can reduce stress on the plantar fascia and improve mobility.
Both procedures are typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.
Risks and Recovery
As with any surgery, there are risks involved with surgery for plantar fasciitis. These include infection, nerve damage, and a prolonged recovery time. Recovery can take several months, during which you may need physical therapy to regain full mobility.
However, many people experience significant pain relief after surgery, making it a worthwhile option for those who have not found success with non-surgical treatments.
Is Surgery the Right Choice for You?
Every case of plantar fasciitis is unique, and deciding whether surgery is the right option depends on several factors. Here’s what to consider:
The Severity of Your Pain
If your pain is severe and affects your ability to walk or perform daily activities, surgery for plantar fasciitis may be considered. However, milder cases typically respond well to non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or orthotics.
Duration of Symptoms
Chronic plantar fasciitis, lasting more than 6-12 months without improvement, may require more aggressive treatment, including a surgical approach.
Impact on Daily Activities
If your symptoms significantly limit your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy daily life, it may justify exploring surgical options after other methods have failed.
Overall Health and Lifestyle
Your overall health plays a key role in recovery after surgery for plantar fasciitis. Conditions like diabetes or obesity may affect surgical outcomes, so discussing your health history with a specialist is critical.
Failure of Previous Treatments
Surgery for plantar fasciitis is often considered when conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, custom orthotics, or injections haven’t worked.
Consult a Specialist
It’s vital to consult a foot and ankle specialist. They can thoroughly evaluate your condition and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs, ensuring the best approach for managing your plantar fasciitis.
Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis in Warwick & Middletown, RI, and Dartmouth, MA
If you suffer from persistent pain caused by plantar fasciitis and are wondering whether surgery is the right choice for you, the first step is to discuss your symptoms with a qualified specialist.
At the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England, our team of podiatrists provides personalized care to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, non-surgical treatments, and surgical options when necessary. Our goal is to address the root cause of your pain and help you get back on your feet with minimal downtime.
Contact us today at our office nearest you to schedule a consultation or use our appointment request form.
Citation:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354846
