If you are thinking of having surgery for plantar fasciitis, you will need to know how long you will have to wait before you are back to your normal activities. Depending on the type of procedure you have, the recovery time will vary. Some patients can get up and walking within a few days, while others have to go on crutches for months.
Endoscopic vs open surgery
The length of time that it takes for a patient to recover after plantar fasciitis surgery is dependent on the type of procedure. Patients can have a minimally invasive procedure such as endoscopic surgery that will allow them to put weight on their feet quickly. However, patients with open surgery may be required to wear a cast for several weeks.
An open surgery will involve a small incision in the heel, which will be covered with a bandage. The plantar fascia will be cut away from the heel bone. This allows the surgeon to get a better view of the area. In addition, a small piece of the heel bone may be removed to decrease the amount of tension on the plantar fascia. The surgeon can then remove the affected nerves. This is the most common method of plantar fasciitis surgery.
Endoscopic surgery, which uses an endoscope (a small camera), is less invasive than an open surgery. There are fewer complications and recovery is usually shorter. This surgery is done in a hospital or a doctor’s office.
Nerve damage
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that connects your heel to your toes. This tissue is made of collagen fibers. When it becomes inflamed, it can entrap nerves, which can result in pain and numbness. A procedure called plantar fasciitis release may help relieve this condition.
This surgery involves cutting the plantar fascia. The incisions are about one to two inches. The doctor will suture the wound and put bandages on the area. The patient can expect minor discomfort for a few days.
When plantar fasciitis is severe, a doctor can remove a small portion of the heel bone to reduce tension on the plantar fascia. This can also stimulate healing. However, there are complications with this type of surgery.
After the incisions are closed, patients can resume their normal daily activities. Most surgical candidates can return to their normal routine after ten to twelve weeks.
Post-surgery recovery can include physical therapy, flexibility exercises, and high-impact activities. A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain.
Pain
If you’ve been told that you need plantar fasciitis surgery, you may be wondering how long you can expect the recovery to be. The answer depends on the type of procedure you have and your overall health.
The first step in the recovery process is staying off your feet. This can reduce the amount of pain you feel, which can help the soft tissues heal more quickly. You should also make sure to keep your foot and bandage dry.
Once you’re healed, you can start to return to your normal activities. You might also be prescribed exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
The next stage of the recovery process involves wearing a brace for a few weeks. This will reduce the pressure on the heel. You’ll also want to avoid any high-impact activities, which can make the pain worse. You’ll be able to return to normal weight-bearing after two to three weeks.
Your surgeon will probably recommend a physical therapy program for the first four weeks after the surgery. This will help strengthen the muscles that support the plantar fascia.
Recovering with crutches
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects one in ten people. It is characterized by pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Surgery may be recommended.
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can interfere with your day-to-day activities. The condition often interferes with your ability to participate in sports. It usually heals in a few months, but it can take up to three months before you can resume high-impact activities.
Non-surgical treatment is generally effective for most patients. The goal is to reduce inflammation and improve the health of the arch. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used to ease discomfort.
Physical therapy is also an option. In this treatment, a physical therapist uses stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and strength. The patient can also use orthotics to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
Plantar fasciitis is typically treated by an orthopedist with subspecialty training in foot and ankle. An orthopedist who is a member of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery may be able to treat the condition.
