Foot pain, particularly from plantar fasciitis, can significantly impact daily life. From the moment you take your first step in the morning, chronic heel pain can hold you back. While non-surgical treatments help many people, some cases of plantar fasciitis persist despite these efforts.
For those with severe, lasting pain, surgery may become a necessary option. Deciding which type of surgery is right for you can feel overwhelming, especially with ongoing discomfort.
This article will help you understand surgery for plantar fasciitis and which type might best suit you.
When Surgery is Necessary for Plantar Fasciitis
Surgery for plantar fasciitis is typically only considered after trying all non-surgical treatments. This is usually done for six to twelve months.
Common options include resting, applying ice, and physical therapy. Custom orthotics, night splints, and corticosteroid injections may also help.
If these do not relieve your pain or your symptoms worsen, surgery may be the next step.
Why Should You Consult a Specialist?
Every case of plantar fasciitis is different. That is why it is crucial to work with a specialist before making any decisions about surgery.
Experts with experience in foot and ankle care can help determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
What are the Surgical Options?
There are several surgical procedures available to treat plantar fasciitis. Each has its own benefits and is chosen based on several factors.
Discussing these options with your specialist will help you find the one that is right for you.
1. Plantar Fascia Release Surgery
This is the most common surgery for plantar fasciitis. During the procedure, the surgeon cuts part of the plantar fascia ligament. This is performed to ease tension and reduce inflammation.
This helps to take pressure off your heel bone and relieves ongoing pain.
It is usually recommended if your pain does not improve with other treatments. It can also help if the ligament is tight and swollen, or if tests show damage in the plantar fascia.
The main benefits include effective pain relief and improved comfort for daily activities.
After surgery, you may need crutches for a few weeks. Physical therapy will help restore strength and movement in your foot.
2. Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy (EPF)
EPF is a less invasive type of surgery for plantar fasciitis. Instead of making one big cut, the surgeon makes small cuts and uses a tiny camera and tools.
This approach causes less damage to the surrounding tissue, making recovery faster.
It is a good option if you want a quicker recovery. It can also help if you have health conditions that make a less invasive surgery safer.
The benefits include smaller cuts, less scarring, and less pain afterward. Physical therapy is still necessary to regain foot strength and flexibility.
3. Gastrocnemius Recession
This surgery helps stretch tight calf muscles, especially the gastrocnemius muscle. Tight calf muscles can make plantar fasciitis worse by pulling on the plantar fascia. It is recommended if tight calves are causing your condition and when stretching exercises have not worked.
The benefits include tackling one of the main causes of plantar fasciitis. It also aids in lowering the chance of it coming back.
You might be able to do light activities within a few weeks. However, full recovery and getting back to regular exercise could take a few months.
4. Shock Wave Therapy
Shock wave therapy is a non-surgical treatment that can be done on its own or alongside surgery. It uses sound waves to help the body heal damaged tissue.
This option is helpful if you are not ready for surgery or if your tissues need extra help recovering.
The benefits include no cuts or incisions. There is also the potential to try it as an alternative before deciding on surgery.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Finding the right surgery depends on several factors. This includes how severe your pain is, how long it has lasted, your overall health, and your lifestyle goals.
Factors to Consider
If pain has not improved after trying treatments for six months or more, surgery may be the next step.
Your daily activities and health condition also play a role in deciding the safest option for you.
How Specialists Can Help
Foot and ankle specialists can assess your condition and review your medical history. Then, they may suggest surgery if other treatments have failed.
They will explain the benefits and risks of each procedure to help you decide.
The Role of Imaging Tests
Tests like X-rays and MRIs can give a clear picture of your foot health. They help identify issues like plantar fascia damage or bone spurs.
They can aid the specialist in choosing the best plantar fasciitis surgery for you.
Recovery and Results
Each surgery has a different recovery time. Minimally invasive options, like EPF, involve faster healing, while others may take longer.
Your doctor will discuss these timelines and possible risks with you. They will also talk about follow-up treatments like physical therapy to help you reach your recovery goals.
By weighing these factors with your specialist’s help, you can make the best choice for surgery for your plantar fasciitis.
Safe and Effective Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis in Warwick & Middletown, RI, and Dartmouth, MA
Chronic plantar fasciitis pain can limit your ability to enjoy even the simplest pleasures in life. Surgery can be a life-changing solution. It is a highly effective approach to addressing many foot problems.
At the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England, our team brings years of expertise to help patients just like you. Whether you are exploring your surgical options or looking for non-invasive treatments, we are here to help. Call our office nearest to you today. You can also schedule a consultation to start your journey toward pain-free living today.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14709-plantar-fasciitis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354846
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354851
