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Is It A Good Idea To Have Surgery For Your Plantar Fasciitis?

5 October 2020

Edward Payne

Plantar fasciitis can be incredibly debilitating in a way you don't really understand until you go through it yourself. The plantar fascia might only be one small band of connective tissue in your arch, but when it becomes stiff and painful, walking and even standing become very uncomfortable. But should you have surgery to address your plantar fasciitis? Maybe, or maybe not. Take a look.

What conservative treatments can you try before surgery?

Surgery for plantar fasciitis is almost never recommended unless you have tried more conservative therapies first. Your doctor will likely recommend rest, wearing a splint, and taking NSAID pain relievers. You may also be shown some exercises to stretch out your arches and strengthen your feet. If this does not give you relief within a few weeks, your doctor may recommend cortisone injections. Cortisone is a steroid that can reduce inflammation and speed the healing of connective tissues, such as your plantar fascia. If even cortisone injections do not give you sufficient relief, then your doctor will likely refer you to an orthopedic surgeon for surgery.

What does the surgery involve?

Plantar fasciitis surgery is not as invasive as a lot of other orthopedic procedures. It can usually be performed with a local anesthetic only. This means your leg will be numb and you'll be sedated during the procedure; you won't be put completely under. This reduces a lot of the risks involved with surgery since most of those risks come from the anesthesia.

The most common approach with plantar fasciitis surgery is called plantar fascia release. The surgeon will basically cut into the plantar fascia to release its tension. This will allow your arch to bend and flex more, which should alleviate your pain and discomfort.

What is the recovery from surgery like?

You will need to stay off your feet for a few days after surgery. Your doctor will probably recommend applying ice to the area a few times per day to keep the pain and inflammation under control. You may also be prescribed pain relievers. A week or two after your surgery, you will likely begin physical therapy. Your physical therapist will guide you through exercises to strengthen your foot and help you heal. Within a month or two, you should be able to walk with considerably less pain, and you should be completely recovered within three months.

For those with stubborn plantar fasciitis pain, an orthopedic surgery can be a good choice. Talk with your doctor to see if you might be a candidate.

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