About 5% of plantar fasciitis sufferers, especially those with severe pain, resort to surgery to heal their pain. In some cases surgery can be the most viable treatment option, yet, the outcomes of surgery are not ideal for everyone. How do you know if surgery is right for you? Consider the following options before you commit to surgery.

When is Surgery Necessary?

In most cases, you can effectively reduce plantar fasciitis pain without surgery. Studies show about 95 of 100 people who live with plantar fasciitis reduce pain without surgical intervention. A procedure should only be considered once several non-surgical options are fully explored. Your doctor shouldn't consider surgery unless you've tried nonsurgical treatments for at least six months. Operation methods increase in success every year; however, the success rate is still only estimated to be about 70-80%. These outcomes encourage doctors to recommend patient's to try to treat their plantar fasciitis through conservative treatment thoroughly. For most, non-surgical treatments produce more powerful, lasting results.

Plantar Fasciitis Release

Plantar Fasciitis Release surgery is operation doctors traditionally use to treat plantar fasciitis pain. The surgery requires the surgeon to cut a section of the plantar fascia ligament. The objective of the procedure is to release tension and reduce inflammation. To begin, the surgeon makes a small incision above the heel pad, specifically where thick sole skin meets the thinner skin at the back of the heel. The doctor may also choose to make the incision at the bottom of the foot. For endoscopic procedures, the surgeon makes a small incision on one side of the heel, directly below the ankle bone. Next, the surgeon will detach the plantar fascia from the heel bone, or create an incision on one side of the heel to release tension. The doctor may also remove or smooth the surface of the bone, to help the plantar fascia heal with less strain. In some case, a small wedge of damaged tissues may be removed. Also, the surgeon may release the abductor halluces to prevent nerves from bundling and trapping after surgery. For about two to three weeks following surgery, patients wear a non-weight-bearing cast, to decrease tension and allow the tissues to heal. After endoscopic surgery, patients can begin limited weight-bearing almost immediately. Most return to normal footwear immediately and return to regular activities within three to six weeks. Doctors prescribe every patient a strength and flexibility program to rehabilitate the muscles gradually. Most patients are recommended to refrain from running or jumping for at least three months after surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Risks

Heel Spur Removal

Many patients with plantar fasciitis often develop heel spurs as well. Heel spurs usually occur alongside plantar fasciitis as the ligament gradually pulls on the heel bone, inflicting mmicrotrauma As a result, the bone grows focally and develops a heel spur. The most popular form of heel spur surgery is endoscopic plantar fasciotomy. During surgery, the surgeon creates two slits around the heel. Next, a small camera is inserted so that the surgeon can see the area. The doctor will then use small instruments to remove the bony fragment of calcium buildup. Patients should consider heel spur surgery a last resort, and fully explore non-surgical options first. About 90 percent of people see improvements with more conservative treatments. Surgery should only be considered following 9 to 12 months of trying non-surgical treatments.

A Simpler Option: The Healing Sole

The Healing Sole creates an environment for long-term recovery and can be more effective than invasive surgical treatment, take the doctor's word for it. The flip-flop was developed and theorized by Meredith Warner, MD. Throughout her time as an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Warner noticed a gap in treatment. She packed the flip-flop with six powerful features that work synergistically to heal the foot. The Healing Sole gently stretches the plantar fascia at the beginning of each step. As your foot pushes off, the rocker bottom sole sways to reduce tension. When your foot meets the ground again, the compressible heel and raised arch absorb the weight of the body. Soft neoprene straps help to hold your foot in place as you move. We've equipped the latest version of The Healing Sole with a durable outsole. Now our flip-flops last even longer and can support extended outdoor wear! For more information click below. For more information click below.