Is Minimally Invasive Surgery Effective for Plantar Fasciitis? Gotham Footcare

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The condition occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes—becomes inflamed due to overuse, stress, or injury. The pain from plantar fasciitis can be debilitating, affecting your daily life and limiting physical activity. For many, conservative treatments such as physical therapy, stretching, and custom orthotics provide relief. However, for patients whose pain persists despite these interventions, minimally invasive surgery may be an option to explore.

At Gotham Footcare, an acclaimed group of foot and ankle surgeons in Manhattan, we specialize in advanced treatments for plantar fasciitis, including minimally invasive surgery. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whether this surgical option is effective for treating plantar fasciitis.

What is Minimally Invasive Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis?

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for plantar fasciitis involves performing the procedure through small incisions, often using specialized tools and techniques. The goal of the surgery is to release part of the plantar fascia to alleviate tension and inflammation. By making smaller incisions, surgeons can minimize damage to surrounding tissue, reduce scarring, and promote a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

At Gotham Footcare, our surgeons are trained in the latest minimally invasive techniques, which allow for a more precise and controlled approach to plantar fasciitis treatment.

When is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery is typically recommended for plantar fasciitis when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief after six months to a year. Most patients find success with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, if pain persists and daily activities remain challenging, surgery may be considered.

Factors that may lead to a recommendation for surgery include:

• Chronic, unrelenting heel pain that limits mobility
• Pain that doesn’t improve with physical therapy or custom orthotics
• Difficulty standing, walking, or performing normal daily activities

At Gotham Footcare, we take a patient-centered approach, ensuring that surgery is only considered after all non-surgical options have been exhausted.

How Does Minimally Invasive Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis Work?

In a minimally invasive surgery for plantar fasciitis, small incisions are made in the heel area. Using specialized instruments, the surgeon partially releases the plantar fascia to relieve tension. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the small incisions reduce trauma to the surrounding tissue.

The goal of the surgery is to decrease inflammation and promote healing, allowing patients to experience long-term relief from pain. Recovery is often quicker with minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional methods, which involve larger incisions and more extensive tissue disruption.

What Are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery Compared to Traditional Surgery?

There are several advantages to choosing minimally invasive surgery over traditional open surgery for plantar fasciitis, including:

• Smaller Incisions: The small incisions used in minimally invasive surgery lead to less tissue damage and smaller scars.
• Reduced Pain and Swelling: With less trauma to the foot, patients often experience less post-operative pain and swelling.
• Faster Recovery Time: Minimally invasive surgery typically allows for a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional surgery.
• Lower Risk of Infection: The smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection and other complications associated with larger wounds.
• Minimal Scarring: Patients are often left with minimal visible scarring due to the small size of the incisions.

At Gotham Footcare, our surgeons have extensive experience in performing minimally invasive procedures, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes with minimal downtime.

How Effective is Minimally Invasive Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis?

Minimally invasive surgery has been shown to be an effective treatment option for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who have not responded to conservative treatments. Studies indicate that the majority of patients experience significant relief from heel pain after the procedure.

While individual outcomes can vary, many patients are able to return to their normal activities within weeks of the surgery, with a substantial reduction in pain. At Gotham Footcare, our surgeons closely monitor each patient’s progress, providing personalized care throughout the recovery process.

What is the Recovery Process?

Recovery from minimally invasive surgery for plantar fasciitis is generally quicker than recovery from traditional open surgery. Most patients can expect to:

• Wear a protective boot or walking shoe for a few weeks after surgery
• Gradually resume weight-bearing activities as tolerated
• Participate in physical therapy to strengthen the foot and promote healing

Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain within a few weeks of the procedure. Full recovery can take several months, during which time patients are encouraged to avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping until cleared by their surgeon.

At Gotham Footcare, we provide comprehensive post-operative care to ensure that each patient recovers safely and effectively.

Are There Risks Associated with Minimally Invasive Surgery for Plantar Fasciitis?

As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved with minimally invasive surgery for plantar fasciitis. These may include:

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Continued pain or stiffness in the foot
• Complications related to anesthesia

However, the risks of minimally invasive surgery are generally lower than those associated with traditional open surgery. By choosing an experienced surgical team, like the specialists at Gotham Footcare, patients can minimize the likelihood of complications and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Can Plantar Fasciitis Return After Surgery?

While minimally invasive surgery can provide long-lasting relief from plantar fasciitis, it’s important to understand that recurrence is still possible, especially if underlying risk factors are not addressed. Maintaining proper foot care, wearing supportive footwear, and incorporating stretching exercises into your daily routine can help prevent the recurrence of plantar fasciitis.

At Gotham Footcare, we work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that include both surgical and non-surgical strategies for long-term relief and prevention.

Who is a Good Candidate for MIS?

Not everyone with plantar fasciitis requires surgery. Good candidates for minimally invasive surgery typically include:

• Individuals with chronic heel pain that has not responded to conservative treatments
• Patients who experience significant limitations in mobility due to plantar fasciitis
• Those who are in good overall health and able to undergo a surgical procedure

During a consultation at Gotham Footcare, your surgeon will assess your symptoms, review your treatment history, and determine whether minimally invasive surgery is the best option for your specific case.

How Can I Prevent Plantar Fasciitis from Returning After Surgery?

Preventing the recurrence of plantar fasciitis after surgery involves addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some strategies for prevention include:

• Wearing Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
• Using Custom Orthotics: Orthotic inserts can help distribute pressure evenly across the foot and correct abnormal foot mechanics.
• Stretching Regularly: Incorporating daily stretching exercises for the calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can help maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Avoiding High-Impact Activities: If you’ve had plantar fasciitis, it’s important to avoid activities that put excessive stress on the feet, such as running on hard surfaces.

At Gotham Footcare, we provide patients with comprehensive education and guidance on how to prevent plantar fasciitis from returning, ensuring long-term relief and improved foot health.

Minimally invasive surgery offers a promising solution for patients suffering from chronic plantar fasciitis. With a quicker recovery time, less pain, and fewer complications, it’s an effective option for those who have not found relief through conservative treatments. If you’re struggling with persistent heel pain, contact Gotham Footcare to learn more about how minimally invasive surgery could help you get back on your feet.