A plantar fasciotomy is a surgical procedure that is done to treat heel pain that is caused by a torn ligament in the heel. It is performed by a specialist who uses a device to remove the torn ligament. This surgery is usually a quick and easy process, although it may cause some discomfort. Those who are considering the procedure should consider the benefits and complications of the surgery, as well as the recovery time.
Surgery causes heel pain
Heel pain can be a debilitating condition. It can cause a person to have difficulty standing or walking. This pain can be sharp or dull. There are several treatments available for treating this pain. Some are non-surgical and some are surgical.
Surgery is often considered after a person has tried non-surgical treatment for several months. Non-surgical treatment can include stretching exercises, cold compresses, and insoles. A corticosteroid injection can also be used to relieve inflammation in the heel.
If these methods do not help, heel spur surgery may be the next step. The procedure can be effective, but it is not for everyone. It is a painful experience and can take several weeks to recover. If you are considering it, talk with your healthcare provider. You may be able to get insurance coverage. However, you will need to meet a deductible first.
After the procedure, you may have to stay off your feet for a few days. You will also have to wear a cast for up to three weeks. You will need to follow a post-operative care plan.
Complications
Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy (EPF) is a minimally invasive surgery to treat recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. The EPF procedure involves releasing tension in the plantar fascia. In addition, it allows for a smaller incision and a faster recovery.
Complications associated with the EPF procedure are rare. However, there are several factors that can affect the outcome of the procedure. The surgeon must select the patient properly, ensure that conservative therapy is appropriate, and follow a post-surgery regimen.
One of the most common postoperative complications of the EPF procedure is pain. Although the majority of patients do not experience recurrence of pain, some patients do. The physician must determine the cause of the pain and take action quickly. Other complications may include nerve damage, which can lead to ongoing pain.
If the condition continues, further surgery may be necessary. In some cases, plantar fasciitis can spread to other parts of the body. In other cases, the inflammation subsides when the plantar fascia is able to stretch.
Recovery time
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the arch of the foot and may cause significant pain. While most patients are able to recover with nonsurgical treatments, some may opt for surgery. Choosing the right type of surgery can determine the length of recovery.
Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy is the most commonly performed surgery for this condition. The procedure is typically performed in a medical facility and takes less time than open surgery. In addition, endoscopic surgery has fewer complications.
The doctor will make a small incision in the heel to perform the surgery. The patient will be given sedation and a regional block. The incision will be sutured and bandaged.
Once awake, the patient will be released. He or she will be instructed to wear a walking boot or walker. For the first four to six weeks, the foot will be immobilized. Some surgeons encourage patients to slowly add pressure to the foot in a walking boot.
Indications for surgery
Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy is a procedure that is typically used for patients who have a chronic form of plantar fasciitis. This condition causes pain in the foot and arch. The treatment is aimed at relieving this pain and allowing the patient to return to normal activities.
The plantar fascia is an important structure that supports the arch of the foot. When it becomes damaged, the arch can flatten. This can cause ongoing pain, and can also lead to an unstable foot. If the disease is left untreated, it can result in rupture.
Most Plantar Fasciitis patients respond to conservative treatments, but a small percentage develops disabling symptoms. A surgical procedure is necessary if conservative treatments have not worked.
An endoscopic plantar fasciotomy is performed with a minimally invasive approach. It involves a numbing medication and two small incisions near the ankle bone. The incisions are then closed with bandages. The plantar fascia is then released.
