Is heel pain keeping you from enjoying daily activities? Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes persistent discomfort, making walking and standing painful. While many individuals find relief with conservative treatments, some experience ongoing pain that requires surgical intervention. This blog explores when surgery is necessary, the available procedures, and what to expect during recovery.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition typically causes sharp heel pain, especially after waking up or standing for long periods.
Several factors contribute to plantar fasciitis, including overuse from activities like running or prolonged standing, improper footwear with inadequate support, flat feet or high arches leading to uneven weight distribution, excess body weight increasing pressure on the heel, and tight calf muscles limiting ankle mobility.
Common symptoms include stabbing pain in the heel, especially in the morning or after rest, tenderness and swelling at the bottom of the foot, and difficulty walking or engaging in physical activities. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can negatively impact mobility, work, and overall quality of life.
When is Surgery Necessary?
Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with non-surgical treatments, such as rest and icing to reduce inflammation, stretching exercises to improve flexibility, custom orthotics for better foot alignment, anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections for pain relief, and shockwave therapy to stimulate healing.
However, surgery may be recommended if pain persists for six months to a year despite treatment, mobility is significantly affected and interferes with daily activities, or imaging tests show thickening or degeneration of the plantar fascia.
Types of Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
There are different surgical approaches depending on the severity of the condition.
- Open Plantar Fasciotomy is a traditional procedure where the surgeon makes an incision in the heel to release tension in the plantar fascia. Recovery takes several months and often requires physical therapy.
- Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy is a minimally invasive technique using a small camera (endoscope) to guide the release of the plantar fascia. This approach typically results in less pain, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery.
In some cases, additional procedures may be required, such as the removal of heel spurs or calf muscle lengthening to reduce strain on the foot.
The Surgical Process
- Before Surgery: Patients undergo a pre-operative evaluation, may need to stop certain medications, and should arrange for post-surgery care.
- On the Day of Surgery: the procedure typically lasts 30–45 minutes and is performed under local or general anesthesia.
- After Surgery: Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort. A walking boot or brace may be required, and gradual weight-bearing activities are reintroduced under medical guidance. Physical therapy is often recommended for a smooth recovery.
Risks and Benefits of Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
While generally safe, surgery carries some risks, including infection, nerve damage, scar tissue formation, and persistent pain or recurrence. However, the benefits often outweigh the risks, as most patients experience long-term pain relief, improved mobility and function, and reduced dependency on medications or therapy.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
To maximize healing and prevent complications, follow post-operative instructions carefully, keep the surgical site clean and dry, monitor for signs of infection such as swelling or redness, engage in physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility, and wear supportive footwear while maintaining a healthy weight to prevent recurrence.
What to Expect After Surgery
Most patients recover within three to six months, with initial healing taking two to four weeks. Success rates range from 70–90%, with many patients experiencing lasting relief.
If plantar fasciitis is disrupting your life and conservative treatments haven’t worked, surgery may be an effective option. Consulting our expert podiatrist is the first step toward understanding your condition and finding the right solution.
Take control of your foot health—schedule a consultation today and start your journey to pain-free living!