What is Endoscopic Heel Surgery?
Endoscopic heel surgery is a minimally-invasive procedure that helps to relieve plantar fasciitis symptoms. Your podiatric surgeon will use an endoscopic camera to view inside the plantar fascia, allowing them to accurately release only the necessary portion of it rather than making a large incision. This technique is known to reduce post-operative inflammation and accelerate your recovery time.
Who Should Have Endoscopic Heel Surgery?
It is important to understand that conservative treatments are preferable to surgery and are usually tried first. About 90 percent of cases will resolve before surgery is considered. You may be a candidate for plantar fascia release surgery if:
- Symptoms persist and worsen despite treatment for six months or more
- Your pain makes it unbearable to work
- Your performance in sports or activities is suffering due to the pain or other symptoms
How Well Does Endoscopic Heel Surgery Work?
While recent large-scale studies are lacking, Endoscopic heel surgery has an estimated success rate of between 80 and 90 percent. Keep in mind that “success” is different for each patient, but is generally defined as resulting in little or no pain after the recovery period, no complications and no recurrence of plantar fasciitis. Naturally, there is some subjectivity in the pain assessment on the part of patients, but usually this can be managed effectively and is at least better than before surgery.
What Can I Expect When I Have Endoscopic Heel Surgery?
You may need a pre-surgical physical to make any necessary accommodations based on your health history. When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll speak to your surgeon and anesthesiologist. When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll speak to your surgeon and anesthesiologist who will discuss the best type of anesthesia for you.
You will be able to begin minimal weight-bearing activities soon after surgery, typically in a cast boot. Your doctor and physical therapist will give you strengthening and flexibility exercises soon after plantar fasciitis surgery to help build back your foot and heel strength.
Most people return to their normal activity level within six weeks after this surgery; however, for intense activities such as running or jumping expect about three months.
