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Name: Sue
Email:Coujur@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, February 18, 1998 at 18:00:01
Comments:

Well, it's been 6 weeks today since my surgery, so I thought I would update everyone... I had the traditional surgery on my right foot (I have PF in both feet, and the right one was worse, so I decided to start with that one!!) The surgery itself was not that bad - took 45 minutes, and I opted for the ankle block rather than being put under. The pain afterwards was only bad the next day, and at night for about 1 week. Had the stitches out after 1 week, and started putting weight on the front part of my foot at that time. I was home for about 3 1/2 weeks (thanks Dawn - without your support I would have gone crazy!!). Went back to work on crutches, but I was already starting to put weight on my entire foot by that time. Today, for the first time, I went the entire day without the crutches. The foot still hurts, but from the surgery and not the PF. If this works, I would have no qualms about having my left foot done also. My doctor is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle - he also does EPF surgery, but is not overly enthusiatic about the long term results of the EPF. This web site has been invaluable to me - besides all the information received, the support from fellow sufferers has been fantastic! I fully agree with the idea of a chat room - it would be great to converse online with everyone. Keep up the good work!

I had EPF done on my left foot in November 1997 (after 6 months of pain) and on my right foot in January 1998. My left foot was by far the worse of the two. After all conservative therapy, my surgeon and I decided "to cut". Interestingly, during my healing process, my right foot (the good one) hurt worse than the left one. The left one is about 60% now I'd say. But, I will add that it is already far better than it was before surgery. The way I see it, the rest is upside. My right foot did not respond to conservative care either, so we cut on it as well. This one is recovering much faster. For example, I only took 3 pain releivers following surgery. I was on the couch for about a week, on crutches (and back to work) for a week, and then on a cane for about a week. Now I hobble around on both feet. I am pain free for the most part by just taking ALEVE. After just 3 weeks, the right foot is almost back to its pre-surgery state. For me now, the question is how long will it take to get well whether that's 70, 80, or 90 percent? I do not believe I will ever get back where I was. I was simply too active. My goal is to be able to walk one mile without pain in a year. One day at time, right? God Bless!

I had a radical plantar fasciectomy ten years ago on my right foot. It was 100% successful. From reading various postings on recovery, it seems that my doctor had me in a cast for much longer than other doctors seem to--one month. Maybe this was a factor in my recovery(I began running two months after the surgery). I am now looking at a fasciectomy on my left foot. All the usual remedies worked just as well on my left foot as they did my right(they didn't!). It is not something I look forward to at all, but, when it comes right down to it, I don't think I have much choice. Bill

I had the radical PF surgery 18 months ago and would not recommend it to anyone. I am waiting for the magical results but my foot still hurts more than before the surgery. I don't have the classical symptoms of pain in the morning. My pain is worse after standing. My surgery resulted in scar tissue at the incission site that was the size of a cocktail wiener. It was four months before I could even think about resuming normal activities. I teach school and was not told that the recovery would be 6 months to one year until after the surgery. I began teaching school two weeks post-op and on crutches. My doctor (former) told me that I could just take it easy for the first few weeks of school! I found out after surgery that I would be unable to bathe for four weeks! I would not recommend this surgery to anyone who was still walking. My friend has had relief with calcium supplements and foot rollers.

I had the radical PF surgery 18 months ago and would not recommend it to anyone. I am waiting for the magical results but my foot still hurts more than before the surgery. I don't have the classical symptoms of pain in the morning. My pain is worse after standing. My surgery resulted in scar tissue at the incission site that was the size of a cocktail wiener. It was four months before I could even think about resuming normal activities. I teach school and was not told that the recovery would be 6 months to one year until after the surgery. I began teaching school two weeks post-op and on crutches. My doctor (former) told me that I could just take it easy for the first few weeks of school! I found out after surgery that I would be unable to bathe for four weeks! I would not recommend this surgery to anyone who was still walking. My friend has had relief with calcium supplements and foot rollers.

This is in response to Jim Denny. I have suffered for three years tried everything short of surgery and can only walk with the use of crutches. I really feel for you, Jim. When people ask me why I don't get the surgery, I tell them I have heard too many stories, like Jim's who actually got worse from the surgery. I've been to about 20 podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons and all the orthopedic surgeons refuse to do surgery because the patients later on down the line end up having more pain than before due to the change in biomechanics. They say it takes several years, so in the beginning people are pain-free and happy. Until I hear of more people who had PF for a long time in both feet, got the surgery and are still fine after five years or more, I won't consider the surgery.

I went to see a new orthopedic surgeon this morning for a second (third/etc.), opinion for my worsening foot condition. All of this follows my plantar fasciotomy surgery nine years ago. (Please see my earlier post on Jan.29). In reviewing my case, he described my condition as "difficult," and "complicated." He would like me to be fitted for and try a new set of orthotics, which he said he hopes might take some pressure off the ligaments in the arch and improve my gait. In addition, he feels that the nerve problem is what's known as a "trapped nerve" and we need to try to keep as much pressure off of it as we can. As for a future surgery to remove the large mass of scar tissue at the site of the surgical incision and surrounding it--and to possibly de-compress the trapped nerve, he re-iterated the caution that I have heard before, that "removing scar tissue begets more scar tissue." So for the while, I've decided to follow the conservative approach, go for the fitting and try out new orthotics to see what kind of relief I can hope for. Unfortunately, the problem isn't going away. It is more a matter of how quickly it continues to worsen. If it would have stabilized at where it was about four years ago, I would have settled for that and learned to live with it. But life doesn't work that way. I continue to welcome any comments or suggestions, especially from any of you who have had plantar fasciotomy surgery, to hear what your post-surgical experiences and possible complications are.

Just an update on my Jan. 22 EPF. I'm doing pretty well. I was supposed to start walking on it the day of surgery per my doctor, but I was in alot of pain and used crutches almost exclusively for a week. I got in big trouble by my doctor! He said that I had to keep pressure on it so the tissue that he cut wouldn't heal back together. So, needless to say, I'm walking on it now! It was painful at first, and I weaned myself to one crutch, and now, 2 weeks later, I only have a little limp. It gets tired by the end of the day, since I'm back at work, but it's not really painful unless I step really hard on it.

In response to Jim Denny: That is a truly horrible story, Jim. Especially, since I had the EPF 3 weeks ago (and am still on crutches - I prolonged my recovery by swimming too vigorously, and inflammed the healing tissue). Do any of you ever think that you just can't go on with this pain and disability? I saw a show on 20/20 or Dateline months ago about a man who had some very painful foot condition on both feet, and nothing could be done for him (it was not PF). And, dr's wouldn't give him strong pain meds because he'd become "addicted." So, he got a gun and filled his feet full of bullets. Then, the dr's gave him morphine or something equally strong, on a regular basis, and now he has a fairly normal life (like he can at least walk). Interesting...

It's been a while since I reported in. I want to go ahead and post something in the Surgery Guestbook for folks to know what it might be like NINE years after a Plantar Fasciotomy. My plantar fasciitis wasn't getting any better and finally, in late 1988, I had a plantar fasciotomy on my right foot. In my case, both the medial and lateral bands were released, (a "radical" plantar fasciotomy) so to speak. My heel pain ceased completely as a result of my plantar fasciotomy, so that is the GOOD NEWS.. However, as of now, January 1998, I'm suffering from some very serious post-surgical complications that have been slowly building up over these past nine years. So this is the BAD NEWS. The plantar fasciotomy changed the bio-mechanics of my foot considerably, including but not limited to my gait. Over time, the scar tissue, particularly at the site of the surgical incision--and in the adjacent arch region of my foot--has continued to build. And over the past two years or so, the build-up of scar tissue seems to be increasing at an exponential rate. This lumpiness in my foot has over time been accompanied by a shortening and flattening of my arch. This affects me both when walking and when standing, even when crouching or in doing a push-up. In the past few months, I have been increasingly troubled by a nerve firing in the fleshier portion of the foot adjacent to the site of the surgical incision--this problem is quite new. It is clear to me that my symptoms--the lumpiness, the flattened arch, the afflicted gait and the nerve firing are all direct consequences of the surgery NINE years ago. Sadly, it has reached the point where the consequences of my surgery are now WORSE than the worst times I experienced with heel pain due to my plantar fasciitis. I am quickly reaching a point of having to make a decision as to what course of action I should take. For myself, I am looking for alternative suggestions, ideas, advice and the shared experience that others may have had as long-term, post-plantar fasciotomy patients. What post-surgical complications have you or others you may know experienced? What have you been able to do about them? I am willing to share my experience with anyone who is contemplating a plantar fasciotomy release, either via endoscopic surgery or the more traditional way, via the knife, to continue to raise the flag to those potential complications.

I am now 6 months post op EPF and am doing well. I am not cured but I do have 99% relief for activities of daily living. Prior to surgery I went through every rx available and lived with daily pain and continued on the anti-inflamatories for over 1 year with just mild relief. I am now able to do all of my daily errands, bank, food shop, small malls walking and all househol chores almost pain free. I continue to have pain with exercise after 5 minutes on an exersice bike or nordic trac air walker. I did change jobs also which I am off my feet all day which can account for some of my relief from pain also. Long malls do cause pain and stiffness also. I continue to do my stretching exersices twice a day, but am on no medications .I feel surgery has been partially helpfull but has not provided me with total relief from the symptoms of fascitis that I wanted. My other foot which has a milder case of fascitis is better also without surgery just from rest and change in lifestyle. I still would recommend the surgery because I am better now, not as well as I had hoped since I do not feel I will ever be able to go for long walks again without pain and tightness. I wonder if I had changed my lifestlye prior to surgery if I would be the same now. I am still hoping I can increase my exercise tolerance so this spring I can go for walks and ride my bike for fun. I was never an athlete, just a weekend recreational exersicer in the good weather. I have learned that rest, proper stretching 2-3 times a days and my custom orthotics and DMX reebocks have been the most helpfull during the good and the bad times with this disease. Good luck to all

I just had an endoscopic release of the FP on Jan 19th. I'm like a new person!! I wish I had done this months ago. I have no more pain. In fact it's going to be hard to keep me down long enough for it to heal up.

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I have suffered from PF for 2 years. Am currently in a night splint. Will go to a cast and surgery next if that doesn't work. Would like to hear from patients on the pros and cons of both types of surgery.

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke the same ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke the same ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke the same ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke the same ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke my ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I developed plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke my ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I had plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke my ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I had plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke my ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

This is just to say that I had plantar fasciitis after walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete on holiday, although it was not diagnosed for some months after. I had it from October 1996 until July 1997, and was receiving very uncomfortable steroid injections directly into the base of my foot. Then in July 1997, I broke my ankle climbing over a fence whilst on an archaeological excavation in Scotland, and had to spend eight weeks in plaster! And guess what? That cured the fasciitis! I wouldn't recommend it as a remedy though! Anyone like to visit my website at: https://www.angelfire.com/mt/savingrace/index.html and sign my guestbook?

Thank you Scott for your great page. It is the most comprehensive site on this subject. I have had Plantar Fascitis for 2 1/2 years now. I am a 25 year-old male and I weigh about 190 pounds. I first got this when I was catering long hours on hard floors wearing bad shoes, but now I am at a desk job so I'm not standing much. However, the pain has not abated. I have had two pairs of orthotics made, been to two physical therapists and four doctors. I have tried stretches, NSAIDS, icing, massage and ultrasound. The only thing that seems to help is the massage. After a few weeks of massage and ultrasound, the plantar fascia seems to loosen up and I feel normal again. But this is just temporary. I don't have the "classic" conditions of the pain being worse in the morning. It tends to hurt the more I am on my feet. I also don't have the pain focused in the heel, but it is more diffuse focusing mostly in the arch. I am considering surgery -- it sounds like EPF is easier than the more intrusive surgery. Can anyone say if this surgery is more effective on people who have the pain concentrated in the heel? I'm so tired of this and I just want to walk again. Email or postings would be appreciated.

This post is to update all on my situation that I wrote about back in December. I have choosen to have the surgery and am now five days post-op. I did not have the endoscopic surgery but the more invasive surgery. My doctor made the three inch cut went in cut the medial facia, removed the spur, cut away soft fatty tissue, and also cut out a neuroma about the size of a quarter. I have been in a cast and off my feet for the last five days and have had no pain at all. I will be out of work for two weeks and returning with limited walking. My doctor does not want me rushing into walking because when she cut the spur off it does weaken the heal bone and the chance of fracturing this bone is greater. Anyway, all is healing well and I'll keep you all updated on my progress. Thanks to all of you that responded to my last post with your advice and words of encouragment. May we all be pain free one day.....Sandy

I had an Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy on my right foot in June of 94, and went on vacation about 10 days later. It was painful for a few days (especially when the foot was "waking up"), but I rented crutches for when I was going to be doing alot of walking. I think I was in regular tennis shoes after about a week, and completely walking on my own in about 2-3. I think this is a little longer than most people, but I don't deal well with pain! I'm having the same procedure done on my left foot on Jan. 22, and I'm actually looking forward to it! The tendon in the arch of my foot is so tight that it feels like it's going to snap sometimes, and I'm in pain all the time now.

Hi, Well I had surgery 4 days ago and the pain is horrible. I see my Dr today to get the bandages off. I had the tradition surgery.. Does anybody know how long it takes to recover for this type? I cant put any weight on my right foot without pain. I will post another note after i see the Doc. Dr gave me vicatin for the pain, It made me really tierd. thanks suzy

i just had surgery 2 weeks ago ( Epf) at kaiser even.. i had to wear a bandage for a week and walked with a cane and a special shoe. After the bandage was removed i was able to wear a regular shoe but I could not wear my orthotics yet. i gat my stitches out next week and go back to work in about a month. my foot is very tender but i can walk a little more each day.. does anyone know what else i can expect?

I had the PF release surgery eight days ago for PF not related to morning pain but more related not being able to stand on my feet for over 10 minutes without arch, heel and fore foot pain. I am walking on my foot in a regular shoe. Does anyone have any expierience in how long it should be until I should expect to see sinificant relief. I still have fore foot pain and I was wondering if it will go away. Is this residual inflamation. My doc thinks that I need to use my foot as much as possible to keep it stretched.

Hi, I am a fellow suffer of PF. I have had pain in my heel and arch area for about three and a half years. Finally went to a podiatrist in June of 97 which diagnosed me with PF. Have been thru all the typical conservative treatments: two cortisone shots, anti-inflamatory, orthodics, physical therapy, and four weeks in a cast, and bought Berkinstock sandles for around the house. All the above was done in vain, no positive results. The cortisone shots worked for about two to three days, the anti-inflamatory doesn't seem to help at all, the orthodics don't work, physical therapy does nothing, and casting was a total waste of time. My doctor tells me that surgery is the next step. After reading all other suffers results it is somewhat comforting to know I am not the only one that has to live with pain from day to day, although I do feel for each one of you and wish this on noone. My doctor does the new not so invasive endoscopic surgery. Although I have read and heard positive things about the surgery I still have many reservations, as with any surgery I guess. I have never been under the knife as they say and maybe I'm just paranoid, but without my feet there's not much to look forward to as you all know. I am somewhat active in sports. I play softball, kickball, and like to workout occasionally. I have read serval articles and journals and understand from them that it is belived that the spur does not actually need to be removed, is this true in all cases? I read where one individual had to go back in a have it removed. It seems to me that it would be better to just go ahead and go in and remove it while the facia is being delt with, am I at a total loss for understanding this problem or just paranoid? The X-ray shows my spur very clearly, even to me an untrained professional. I have been through two and a half years of school for medical lab technology so I have had anatomy classes and do know what these bones are suppose to look like and mine is far from normal. Can the spur be big enough to warrant a concern? Anyone out there with any answers, positive or negative results from surgery, or any other words of encouragement please write me at sap02@flash.net. I would love to hear from fellow suffers. I am scheduled to go back to the doctor on Tuesday, December the 16th and I'm sure she will want to schedule the surgery. Suffering with you all..., Sandy Parsons

It's been over a month since my surgery and several people have asked me for an update. Sorry I'm late responding! I had conventional heel spur surgery Oct. 21. The dr. made a three-inch cut on the inside of my heel. He took out the heel spurs, and scooped out excess gristle-like stuff that had formed where the PF attaches. He also found an entrapped nerve and cut out a section of it. He did NOT cut the PF away from the heel; he doesn't believe in doing that, as a rule, for active people because it changes the mechanics of the foot. My foot was still pretty numb a couple days after the surgery from the powerful local anesthesia. That helped. No crutches or anything -- he told me to hobble around as I could. And use ice and recliner-type elevation most of the time the first few days. Two weeks later I was back at work, but that was pushing it. I had a lot of pain the first few days back at work. I can't wear any shoes that have arch support, that hurts a lot. Dr. told me it would for a while. He expects this to take 6 mo. to a year to heal. Maybe then I can wear my $300 worth of orthotics again. I can walk around malls and everything now, have been for a while! I can ride a bike. But the day (last Sat.) I walked 3/4 mile in hiking boots, I paid for it. I haven't used very many pain pills. This surgery was easier than I thought it would be, yet bones do take a long time to heal. Sometimes I can hardly tell the difference between numbness and pain -- I have a lot of numbness. It's funny, even though the bottom of my heel is pretty numb, I can't stand any sort of unevenness under my heel in a shoe. For instance, I can feel a shoe label right through my socks. So it's not completely numb. I've bought lots of Scholl and Spenco inserts to help. Please feel free to contact me if you have any more questions! Beth, the hiker bkane@artisoft.com

Has anyone consulted with Dr. Barrett, in Spring, TX, near Houston? His link is on this web page, and I made an appmt. to see him in early Jan. He says he invented the endoscopic surgery for PF. Would appreciate any feedback you may have on him. Thanks

Hi: Had EPF Surgery in june, 97 after several years of suffering with PF, one year of treatment by podiatrist, 3 injections in each heel, NSAIDS, stretching and the like and $350 worth of custom orthotics. Went to orthopedist in May, who recommended EPF. surgery was a breeze - I was back at work the next week, post op recovery seemed to be going well, but then began developing pain in the ankle and metatarsal areas - stiffness, heaviness, and continuous pain on weightbearing activity - If I went shopping for an hour I paid for it. Tried another injection, new orthotics ($120 more!) ankle braces - elastic and lace up - only wearing nike walking shoe with orthotics ALWAYS! and physical therapy. Finally, orthopedist referred me to foot and ankle specialist. Today, he tells me this is common in EPF surgery patients - called Lateral Column Pain Syndrome - usually resolves with an injection and wearing a mobilizing boot for 3-4 weeks...there is hope, I'm keeping my fingers crossed - anyone have any experience with this?

I am a Chiropodist and have had plantar fasciitis twice in three years. Actually what I have is a true enthesopathy or tearing of the plantar fascia from its calcaneal(heel) attachment. In 1994 I began my first Root orthotic therapy and had full resolution of symptoms within one month. This last summer July 1997, I had a second attack only this time much worse than the first. I tried, as I suggest to my patients, to go without the orthotics for one week to compare results. After one day of this test, I was unable to sleep at night as a shooting pain permeated my plantar heel. I do truly understand what my patients go through with this condition. I again have resolution of my symptoms after new orthotics and four months. I am one of the lucky patients who has not required invasive procedures to date. What made the difference for me this time was in that my new orthotics essentially have a higher arch (increased posting as well), this is what is theoretically necessary to stop the fascia from ripping from the heel. I have not required heel lifts however, the incidence of a tight heel cord or gastrocequinus is usually concomitant with this condition.

As I read over the comments from the heelspur surgery guestbook, I have a few observations that may help all the sufferers of plantar fasciititis/heelspur syndrome: 1)It is a common condition often seen by foot and ankle doctors. 2)Conservative treatment varies and is comprised of all modalities reported on this site. 3)An injection into the plantar fascia carries a one-in-a-million chance of causing a rupture of the fascia in one foot and ten times that in two feet. 4) It is caused by biomechanical dysfunction or a systemic arthropathy...if the problem is unilateral,especially, or bilateral, and responds to forms of treatment (even temporarily) and has been present for less than a year, then surgery will probably help. If the pain is bilateral and does not respond to conservatine care, then surgery will probably not help. 5)Whatever treatment your doctor prescribes is that which works best in his/her hands. 6)Open heel spur surgery and EPF can both work equally well, or not work at all. 7)I'm and old man with a new baby. If you have specific, short questions, I'll be glad to answer PRN. I'm also at www.drlundeen.com!

I've had PF since 1983, and conservative treatments worked well for about 10 years. In 1994, it escalated to a MAJOR problem, and I had bi-lateral surgery in 1995. Thought I'd be in great shape after that, but have been in major pain ever since. Went the whole route of night splints, PT, casts, NSAIDS, shots, non-narcotic pain medication (ultram), graduated to Darvocet, then on to Tylenol w/ codeine before having salvage surgery on the right foot alone in July 97. Since I had such a tough recovery in 95, my doctor (orthopaedist specializing in feet -- Mayo trained, etc.) recommended just the right foot (it has always been worse than the left), and if it was successful, we'd do the left later. Well -- we won't be doing the left. After surgery, I thought I was doing well, until I returned to teaching elementary music when school started. After six days in the classroom, I was totally crippled, and have had to retire from my job -- not what I wanted to do at age 45 with two kids in college and horses in the barn! But now, the pain is constant day and night, and no longer recedes when I'm off my feet. My favorite shoes (when I can go without wearing those hot bulky equalizer boots) are SAS sandals with a longitudinal metatarsal arch support stuck to the insole, and Ariat paddock boots (found in tack stores). The Ariats have a gel insole, good arch support, and torsion control. They give great ankle support, and have a slightly elevated heel. They're the only thing I can wear without orthotics or arch pads. I wear the SAS sandals even in winter with knee socks. They have a wonderfully squishy sole that doesn't lose its bounce. They swore to me that the SAS walking shoes have the exact same sole, but they are not nearly as shock-absorbent, and really hurt my feet. One of the toughest things I've had to endure is the skepticism of colleagues who don't understand that this is really a crippling condition. But -- I'm thankful that it is not life threatening, though it is life changing. Swimming has helped with stretching -- and horse back riding is great for stretching the heel down. One doctor I saw ten years ago commented that women didn't have this problem as often back when we wore high heels. Of course, we had other problems -- but I'd trade this for just about any of the others! It amazes me that everywhere I go, people ask about my problem and then exclaim, "But that's what I have!" It is incredibly common. Hopefully, most people can hope for successful intervention. I'd rather have been in the small percentage of people who are incredibly wealthy, but instead, I'm in the small percentage of those who have incredibly bad feet! But when I consider friends who are struggling with cancer or other serious diseases, it puts it all in perspective. My feet hurt -- so what!! Best wishes for complete recovery - prayers for a cure.

This is my 3 month post op EPF update to all. I have finally been given the go ahead from my orthopedic surgeon to slowly resume all activities as tolerated. To this point he wanted me to take things very slow so the heel scarring tissue would not be irritated and inflamed. I am now about 90% pain free 90% of the time. I am off all anti-inflamatories. I am now supposed to restart my stretching exersices 3-4 times a day for 5 minutes at a time to stretch and strenghen. My surgeon said I will still see about 5%more improvement as time goes on, but will never be 100% as before. I still am experiencing some tightness and very minimal sorness first thing in the am , and after stretching. I have been extremely cautious on activities but did go to the mall last week and experienced no pain, just slight tightness which i stretched out after, it was the first time in over 2 years that I walked a mall pain free. It was so nice. I am very slowly starting an exersice program this week just a few minutes at a time, and hope I can slowly work up to a comfortable level of exercise pain free without causing pain or inflamation. I plan on being very cautious. The good news is also my right foot pain has decreased due to my inactivity, and I am hoping it is in remission so I can forgo surgery on this one. Lets hope. I am satisfied with the surgical results, but wished it was 100% total recovery which there is no garentee.I am told that this condition can return with increased irritation so its wise to be cautious forever in not overdoing activities. I changed jobs and am no sitting at a computer, so my walking will be for pleasure only, not work, and its my choice which is perfect. I will continue to update everyone in the near future. Good luck, there is hope!

This is my 3 month post op EPF update to all. I have finally been given the go ahead from my orthopedic surgeon to slowly resume all activities as tolerated. To this point he wanted me to take things very slow so the heel scarring tissue would not be irritated and inflamed. I am now about 90% pain free 90% of the time. I am off all anti-inflamatories. I am now supposed to restart my stretching exersices 3-4 times a day for 5 minutes at a time to stretch and strenghen. My surgeon said I will still see about 5%more improvement as time goes on, but will never be 100% as before. I still am experiencing some tightness and very minimal sorness first thing in the am , and after stretching. I have been extremely cautious on activities but did go to the mall last week and experienced no pain, just slight tightness which i stretched out after, it was the first time in over 2 years that I walked a mall pain free. It was so nice. I am very slowly starting an exersice program this week just a few minutes at a time, and hope I can slowly work up to a comfortable level of exercise pain free without causing pain or inflamation. I plan on being very cautious. The good news is also my right foot pain has decreased due to my inactivity, and I am hoping it is in remission so I can forgo surgery on this one. Lets hope. I am satisfied with the surgical results, but wished it was 100% total recovery which there is no garentee.I am told that this condition can return with increased irritation so its wise to be cautious forever in not overdoing activities. I changed jobs and am no sitting at a computer, so my walking will be for pleasure only, not work, and its my choice which is perfect. I will continue to update everyone in the near future. Good luck, there is hope!

This is my 3 month post op EPF update to all. I have finally been given the go ahead from my orthopedic surgeon to slowly resume all activities as tolerated. To this point he wanted me to take things very slow so the heel scarring tissue would not be irritated and inflamed. I am now about 90% pain free 90% of the time. I am off all anti-inflamatories. I am now supposed to restart my stretching exersices 3-4 times a day for 5 minutes at a time to stretch and strenghen. My surgeon said I will still see about 5%more improvement as time goes on, but will never be 100% as before. I still am experiencing some tightness and very minimal sorness first thing in the am , and after stretching. I have been extremely cautious on activities but did go to the mall last week and experienced no pain, just slight tightness which i stretched out after, it was the first time in over 2 years that I walked a mall pain free. It was so nice. I am very slowly starting an exersice program this week just a few minutes at a time, and hope I can slowly work up to a comfortable level of exercise pain free without causing pain or inflamation. I plan on being very cautious. The good news is also my right foot pain has decreased due to my inactivity, and I am hoping it is in remission so I can forgo surgery on this one. Lets hope. I am satisfied with the surgical results, but wished it was 100% total recovery which there is no garentee.I am told that this condition can return with increased irritation so its wise to be cautious forever in not overdoing activities. I changed jobs and am no sitting at a computer, so my walking will be for pleasure only, not work, and its my choice which is perfect. I will continue to update everyone in the near future. Good luck, there is hope!

I have had it for 21 months - got it x-county skiing. I have tried everything; taping, icing, cortisone (3 in each foot), anti-inflam. drugs, bone scan, x-rays, physical therapy for 2 months, orthotics (3 pairs - cost of $1000), several types of shoes, 7 months of acupuncture, nerve conduction test in both feet, etc., etc. I am ready for surgery. I have seen a podiatrist who will do the conventional surgery, and one who does the endoscopic. Can't decide which (the information is very confusing and sometimes contradictory). I would love to hear from those of you have done it either way - especially, how long until you can get around normally? Anyone done both feet at once, or any advice on that? I'm inclined to do both at once, to cut down on the total recovery time (I can just lay on my couch for a month or so - I'm getting used to that anyway!). It is interesting, but a little depressing to know that there are so many people that suffer from this truly debilitating condition (I was in a wheelchair all summer).

I just read the latest messages in the surgery guestbook and noticed the one from JMcFadden that said: "He diagnosed an 'entrapped nerve' which he said is common after this type of surgery (if he had told me this prior to the surgery, I wouldn't have had it!)" JMcFadden had the EPF. According to my doctor, this is typical of the problems associated with doing EPF as opposed to the more open surgery (3" cut). With EPF the dr. couldn't have seen that nerve, which was probably inflamed before the surgery! Now you may have to have two operations. :'( My surgery is next week, and the doctor is going to cut out that inflamed nerve (neuroma) and clear away scar tissue from where the PF attaches to the heel (NOT do a release). He said that removing that section of nerve alone will probably remove all pain permanently. My heel will be numb forever afterward, but I don't care because it won't hurt and I can get back to hiking. I will let you know what happens as soon as I can! Also, to the man whose wife still has more pain 3 weeks after surgery than she had before, my dr. says that is normal -- it really takes time to heal. Beth....bkane@artisoft.com

I was treated for PF in both feet for 2 years-received an injection of cortisone in each foot- resulted in rupturing the plantar fascia in both feet and causing arches to collapse;this resulted in ruptured tendons and shearing of ankle ligament. I had reconstuctive surgery 7 mos ago on 1 foot and will require more surgery next week, and reconstructive surgery on the other foot in 2-4 mos. Has anyone else had a similar experience? The physician treating me now is an orthopedic surgeon-specializing in feet and ankles- is excellent- so hopefully I will recover from this nightmare!!

Hi, my wife had been suffering from PF for more than two years. She just had a EPF done three weeks ago. She has been doing everything the Dr. told her to, but she is to go back to work in three days and still can not be on her feet for more than an hour or less without pain. Her Dr. tells her that this will take time! But shouldn't she have less pain by now than she had before the EPF? Thanks Bill

Time: 1997-07-21 18:58:00 Comments: I thank everyone for the information about the EPF Surgery. I have had PF for almost 5 years now. Have done it all. Shots, Drugs, Shoes, Insets, Ultra-sound, Heat, Cold, massage & acupucture. I had the Surgery done on June 26. Still at home recovering, but my heel pain has changed alot over the past 3 weeks. I still have a little pain when I first get up, but within a few hours it is a dull. I have some numbness on the heel, Dr. said it will go away with time. Been able to do things that I have not been able to do for a long time. (Walking, exercising & shopping) A little bit at a time I guess. (Only a few hours at a time). I feel more like my old self again, being able to do things without wandering if this will cause problems with my EP. I will give you a update again in a few weeks when I go back to work. My work has me on my feet 8 - 12 hours a day. I will go back part-time the first week in Aug.

I've had PF for 4 1/2 years. After doing all the exercises, stretching, shots, 3 sets of orthotics, countless pairs of shoes, 3 podiatrists, 1 orthopedic, I finally decided to have EPF surgery. 4 months after the surgery the pain in my arch has subsided a bit but the overall direct heel pain is actually a bit worse. The podiatrist who performed the surgery now decided that the cause of the pain was the heel spur and proceded to talk about surgery to remove the spur. I'm only 37 and have a hard time walking towards the end of the day. If anyone has had unsuccessful EPF surgery and was eventually cured after removing the spur I would love to hear from you. Thanks

Was diagnosed with PF 4 years ago. Did traditional allopathic tx. cortisone, wrapping, ice, heat, etc. Cortisone worked for about 1 1/2 years, however, didn't want any more , so opted for surgery 2 1/2 years ago. Seemed to work for awhile, however, my heel is still numb, no feeling ever recovered from the surgery. About 4 months ago the area right below the inside of my ankle and the entire ankle felt like there was so much pressure around it, I wished it would fall off. Went back to the podiatrist and explained the symptoms, heaviness, ache, burning sensation and he wanted me to have a nerve test (which I didn't do). He diagnosed an "entrapped nerve" which he said is common after this type of surgery (if he had told me this prior to the surgery, I wouldn't have had it!) He wrapped my foot and told me my only alternative was more cortisone, which I won't do. I asked him about alternative methods, ie., acupuncture, etc. and as you might suspect his response was less than a grunt. So, currently waiting my 2nd acupuncture tx. First one gave immediate relief, however, pain is still there. After reading some of the responses on the page, I really wonder if I don't have a stress fx. At times I have thought to myself, it would feel good to be in a cast!!! Any one else experiencing these types of symptoms, and if so, any tx you care to share. Sure puts a crimp on the exercise programs! Thanks.

I, like many of the other sufferers, have had PF (in one form or another) for many years. I had all the traditional treatments (e.g. taping, several pairs of orthotics, injections). I finally had surgery in 1988 (the condition appeared in 1985). I was a lifelong runner and PF effectively ended my running career. I then took up other sports. My advice to other sufferers (especially you runners out there) is to try different activties that will result in the stretching out of your hamstrings, achilles tendon and plantar fascia. I have been roller blading, playing ice hockey and using a nordic track and my condition has improved to the point where I can now run 3-4 times per week for the first time in 10 years (with minimal discomfort). This web site is fantastic!. Keep up the good work. You are providing hope for a great many people who truly need it.

I suffered for two years, cortisone injections, cold, heat, shoe pads and a lot of pain. I underwent the Endoscopic Surgery in May. After two months, I can tell you pain is gone, and except for a mild arch discomfort I feel great. I am still wearing as much as possible thick walking shoes, but I wear low heel shoes at work and I feel no pain. The surgery took less than 1/2 hours, and a few days to recuperate. I was back to work in about a week, and being careful as to what type of shoes I wore, mostly athletic tennis shoes. I am getting better and betterl!!

I am now 2 weeks post-op EPF by my orthopedic surgeon, performed in a outpatient surgical ward.There is very little pain post-op, and my post op phase is progressing steadily. I am still wearing the walking boot, untill I can walk without pain for 1 week, I have not needed the crutches the last few days and the discomfort I am experiencing is less than the original pain prior to surgery. I have encountered some swelling and pain around the bottom of the heel but with ice and elevation that is also subsiding.Today has been the best yet, very little discomfort and swelling. I went in to work today to do paperwork sitting, it felt great to just get out of the house, I am going stir crazy. Hopefully next week, I will start slowly back in sneakers with my orthotics for a short time, which have been my best friend for the last year. My left foot 2 weeks after surgery is less sore than the right foot which is also plagued with facitiis and if all goes well, I will probably have the right foot fixed also. I am very pleased so far with the outcome.

Hello, I am trying to find out if there's anyone out there who's had non-endoscopic surgery for their plantar fasciitis. I haven't found _anything_ about this on the 'Net. I'm about to get a three-inch cut along the inside/arch/heel area to do some creative cutting on the plantar fascia attachment area, plus remove a neuroma. My doctor is a very experienced podiatrist and I trust him, but I'd like to know things like recovery time, how bad is it right after the surgery, how restricted are my activities, etc. I've had plantar fasciitis for a year and tried every solution. Got some relief from orthotics but not enough to enable me to go hiking, which is my thing! I also have Achilles tendinitis in the same foot. Thanks a lot for any info you have. -- Beth (mail to: bkane@artisoft.com)

Hi, just an update. I am now 4 weeks post EPF and am still progressing nicely with no complications. I am now back in my reebocks 100% of the time with my orthotics and 70-80% pain free most of the time, as long as I do not do any extended walking, then my feet do hurt. I am off all anti-inflamatories which is incredible, and have not needed to even ice the bottom of my foot for the last few days, as it has not needed it. 2 short trips to the mall caused mild discomfort, but I did push beyond my limit,and I knew it, rested after with no residual effects. So as you can see I am still very pleased with the outcome so far, every few days I continue to see improvement. I was told this was a slow progressive process for healing and I am trying to be patient, of course after suffering for 2 plus years I want relief now as we all do. I am due to see my ortho surgeon in about 10 days for a follow-up and I will keep everyone posted. I am pleased enough at this point to do the other foot when I get the go from my doc. Eileen Name: Eileen L Time: 1997-09-03 04:42:00 Comments: i am a 2 year plus sufferer with plantar facitiitis, finally after a year of suffering and barely walking visited an orthopedic doc who specializes in sports medicine. He started me on anti-inflamatories, which took 8 different samples to find one that relieved the pain and swelling. Physical Therapy also was started immediately for the next 3 month with fair effect. With mild releif I cut down on my work scheldule , I am a nurse who is on her feet continously, that also helped only slightly.Next step was custom orthotics, which are made of cork, with the heel cut out and foam inserted, also mildly effective. did I mention I have continued to do the stretching twice a day for the last year, could not get off the clinoril (anti-inflamatory)after 11 months. I even changed jobs, but i'm still on my feet too much here also. Last visit with my doc, says i have tried everything concervative and just recently had EPF five days ago, out of desperation to possible lead a normal life again. I am 47 year old female and just want to walk a mall without pain , working without pain would be nice too. Surgery done out patient hospital, much better than I thought. Very little discomfort, have used pain meds very little. Today I started puttling slight weight on the left affected foot. I am wearing a hot removable walking boot. Still only minor discomfort. Acually my right heel hurts more from using all my wieght on it with the crutches the last few days.So far I am pleased, and if all goes well, will do the other foot eventually. I will keep you posted on my progress. Back to my surgeon in 5 days for stiches out and instructions for whats next. Eileen

I was diagnosed with PF of my right heel in 1989. I went through several doctors (podiatrists & orthopedic surgeons), and went through every treatment available, including NSAIDs, steroid injections, heel cups, strapping, physical therapy, orthotics, and casting - nothing helped, and in 1993, my left foot developed it as well! I finally found a great podiatrist in 1993 who offered plantar fascia release to me after failing to respond to his regimen of conservative therapy (approx 1 year). I had my right foot done three years ago (after 5 years of chronic pain and agony), and my left heel done 11 months later. It was the best thing I ever did! I am now completly pain free! The surgery did require immobilization of the foot in a splint and nonweightbearing for 3-4 weeks. It also took 6-8 months before I could say it felt good and that I had made the right decision. I couldn't wait to get my second foot done! The only reminder I have now is a barely noticable 1-1/2 inch scar on the inside of my heels and some numbness of part of the bottom of the heels. Surgery can help! It worked for me. Good Luck!

Well I had my EPF surgery on the 17th,here's my experience: Arrived at the hospital at 12 pm,was wheeled into pre-op at 2 pm,where I had an IV inserted,wheeled into surgery about 2:45 where I was given a shot of sodium pentothal (which completely knocked me out in 2 min.) The procedure itself only took 22 min.to complete. Then I was sent to the recovery room to sleep off the dfor 3-4 weeks. It also took 6-8 months before I could say it felt good and that I had made the right decision. I couldn't wait to get my second foot done! The only reminder I have now is a barely noticable 1-1/2 inch scar on the inside of my heels and some numbness of part of the bottom of the heels. Surgery can help! It worked for me. Good Luck!

Well I had my EPF surgery on the 17th,here's my experience: Arrived at the hospital at 12 pm,was wheeled into pre-op at 2 pm,where I had an IV inserted,wheeled into surgery about 2:45 where I was given a shot of sodium pentothal (which completely knocked me out in 2 min.) The procedure itself only took 22 min.to complete. Then I was sent to the recovery room to sleep off the dfor 3-4 weeks. It also took 6-8 months before I could say it felt good and that I had made the right decision. I couldn't wait to get my second foot done! The only reminder I have now is a barely noticable 1-1/2 inch scar on the inside of my heels and some numbness of part of the bottom of the heels. Surgery can help! It worked for me. Good Luck!

Well I had my EPF surgery on the 17th,here's my experience: Arrived at the hospital at 12 pm,was wheeled into pre-op at 2 pm,where I had an IV inserted,wheeled into surgery about 2:45 where I was given a shot of sodium pentothal (which completely knocked me out in 2 min.) The procedure itself only took 22 min.to complete. Then I was sent to the recovery room to sleep off the dfor 3-4 weeks. It also took 6-8 months before I could say it felt good and that I had made the right decision. I couldn't wait to get my second foot done! The only reminder I have now is a barely noticable 1-1/2 inch scar on the inside of my heels and some numbness of part of the bottom of the heels. Surgery can help! It worked for me. Good Luck!

Well I had my EPF surgery on the 17th,here's my experience: Arrived at the hospital at 12 pm,was wheeled into pre-op at 2 pm,where I had an IV inserted,wheeled into surgery about 2:45 where I was given a shot of sodium pentothal (which completely knocked me out in 2 min.) The procedure itself only took 22 min.to complete. Then I was sent to the recovery room to sleep off the drugs (about 90 min.) They had me hooked up to a heart monitor,a blood gas monitor,and administered oxygen during this time also.They then wheeled me into post-op,where my wife joined me.Post-op gave me some food and drink,also checked blood pressure,blah, blah,blah.Finally allowed to get dressed,took a few x-rays,gave me a surgical boot to wear for a week or two...no crutches...cool!I was home by 8pm.My foot is quite sore,now the numbness is worn off.The Dr. encourages putting weight on it right away,but also resting it on pillows and applying ice.Percoset for the pain makes life sweet for the time being! Well,that's about it..all in all,I hate to describe it as fun,it was a pain free,satisfying procedure! I can hardly wait to get my left foot done in a few weeks.I highly recommend it!

Hi, I would like to thank you very much for putting this site together. I have had PF for the last 4 years and about 6 months i had the surgery on my left foot, but still is not completely recovered my doctor said it will take about a year in my case so i'm hoping. I just check your site to see if i can find any info.

I have had Plantar Fasciitis for about 3 years. I've done everything possible but to no avail. i had EDF surgery in April of this year, and the surgery was pretty much successful. The heel pain is gone, but I'm now suffering with numbness in three of my toes, and pain in my ankle. If anyone has had similar symptoms, I would appreciate any comments you may have.

I am the person that Ted is referring to in his post. Yes, my ortho dr likes to see what he is cutting. I had my surgery on 9/10 and Ted had his in 9/17. We have been comparing notes for about two weeks now. Although the recovery time is much longer, I am currently in a non weight bearing cast for the next three weeks (total of 5 weeks and 1 day non weight bearing) I totally feel confident in my doctor. Once this cast is off he will start having me put weight on it in a walking cast for 4 weeks. Your site has been invaluable to me. Ted (who I found because of your site) had helped me keep my sanity being cooped up in the house (I can not drive yet). Keep up the good work. I only wish that you had more info about the traditional surgery.

This is an update on my PF surgery,for all that care.Had surgery on the 17th,went back to doc on the 20th,she said the foot is healing well,says I must walk on it to stretch the bottom of the foot,even showed me photos taken of the inside of my foot during surgery....cool,eh? I've been getting around with a minimum of pain now,but still icing my foot at night,and taking Motrin for swelling and pain.Again,I would definately recommend this procedure over the old (hello,Dawn). The dr.said there is really no reason to do it any other way.Maybe someone who has had it done can mail me,and let me know the reason that their dr.does the older method?

I just had surgery after suffering thru pain for over three years. My doctor chose to do the more evasive procedure, because he wanted to be able to better see any additional problems I could have had, such as nerve entrapment etc. It has now been three weeks since my surgery, I was very surprised that pain after surgery was really very minimal. I just started walking this week and will graduate to a tennis shoe at exactly three weeks. I will let you know how it goes. I also want to thank you for web site, it really has helped me the last few years.

Thanks for this site! I am going under the knife Oct. 21 for the more radical P.F. surgery (not endoscopic). I've already corresponded with some people from this site who have had it done, but I'd like to hear from more people. On the main guestbook, one person said she was getting the surgery Oct. 1 but when I tried to write to her, her e-mail message didn't show up in the address field. How are you doing? What is the pain like? What are you able to do? I have lots of questions like this. Can anyone else pitch in and tell me what it's going to be like? Thanks a lot, Beth bkane@artisoft.com