Surgical Treatment

Generally, surgery is usually considered only after six months to one year of failed conservative therapy. The type of surgery is indicated by severity and surgeon preference. Surgeons have the option of releasing the plantar fascia through conventional direct visualization (i.e., "open" surgery) or using an endoscopic technique (i.e., endoscopic plantar fasciotomy or EPF) in which small cameras are used to visualize the plantar fascia. The EPF requires smaller incisions, yields smaller scars, and usually provides a quicker recovery. The EPF cannot be used if the removal of a heel spur is required. All procedures can be done on an outpatient basis and usually require less than an hour to perform. Recovery time can range from two weeks to a couple of months depending on the selected procedure and patient condition. The most common complication of surgery is reoccurrence of pain. If surgery is warranted, your podiatrist will discuss in detail the best procedure for your specific condition.