In severe cases of plantar fasciitis, surgery is a viable treatment option. This surgery is often performed endoscopically, which is less invasive than traditional surgery. Recovery from endoscopic surgery typically lasts three to six weeks, but can take up to three months in some cases. In most cases, patients must complete physical therapy after the procedure to strengthen and stretch the foot. Postoperative pain and stiffness may also persist for a few months.
A comprehensive examination of the foot is the first step in treatment. An orthopedist or podiatrist with subspecialty training in the foot and ankle can give you a clear diagnosis and start the initial treatment plan. Weight-bearing x-rays are essential to confirm a proper diagnosis, as well as to determine the extent of the problem. Surgery is not always necessary to cure plantar fasciitis, but it can provide relief from the discomfort.
There are many nonsurgical treatments for plantar fasciitis before surgery. Stretching exercises, cortisone injections, and ice are all effective treatments. The doctor may also prescribe medications and conduct physical therapy. Immobilization in a walking boot is another non-operative treatment for plantar fasciitis before surgery. While most people respond to non-surgical treatment, a small percentage of people require surgery. If you require surgery, you should discuss your treatment options with your foot and ankle surgeon.
People with a high risk of developing this condition are long-distance runners and dancers. Other causes of this condition include obesity and excessive stress on the foot. Some people are genetically predisposed to develop the condition, which may lead to surgery later in life. Although most nonsurgical treatments are effective, they will not relieve the pain. This may require more than one operation. You must choose carefully. A surgeon should carefully evaluate your case, as a poor result could lead to long-term complications.
Although plantar fascia surgery is often performed to treat plantar fasciitis, there are risks associated with the procedure. An excessive release of the plantar fascia can result in the height of your foot arch being reduced. The procedure also carries risks of infection and nerve damage. Depending on your condition and the severity of the condition, surgery may not be an option for you. If your symptoms have progressed, you should continue non-surgical treatment for plantar fasciitis.
There is no clear consensus regarding the optimal treatment for plantar fasciitis. Although open plantar fasciotomy is an option for recalcitrant cases, nonoperative measures must be tried first. There are many novel conservative treatments being developed for this condition, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and electroshock therapy. However, long-term outcomes are unknown in these therapies and their success may limit the number of patients who undergo surgical treatment.
Surgical treatment for plantar fasciitis has mixed results. While most cases of plantar fasciitis improve over time, it is not effective in the short term. Patients may require repeated treatments and a long recovery period. Depending on the type of surgery, recovery times vary. Open surgery requires a cast or brace for a few weeks. While the cast will provide protection, the cast will help the tissues heal.
