I was diagnosed with Plantar fasciitis and about two years ago underwent endoscopic plantar fasciotomy (EPF).
After the procedures, my pain worsened exponentially.
I am intimately familiar with the emotional devestation of a physical disability and the "baggage" that comes with the disability.
Prior to EPF's I worked in medical industry. I was 30 and financially very well off. I had a great job, and had worked in my profession for 9 years. I had just bought a beautiful new home.
That was almost two years ago. The pain in my feet was crippling. I searched the internet for information about PF and EPF. There was little to be found and I felt all alone.
I was unable to work. Unable to perform most daily duties around house. I had to liquidate everything I owned and was planning on moving in with my mother or finding an assisted living apartment.
Why am I writing? A few months back I came accross a group of lawyers, FOOTLAW. I communicated with them. They were highly professional and kind.
They are representing me in a medical mal-practice suit as well as with disability benefits from my insurance carrier.
Regardless of the out-come of any lawsuit or insurance company, they have been instrumental in my finally (after two years) finding relief which is PRICELESS.
I wish I had known of them sooner, and am hoping that my sharing this might benefit someone else. I am not affiliated in any way with them, other than as a client.
The lady that wrote of her success in social security without a lawyer is fortunate. Each case is different, and your physician plays a vital role in determination of benefits.
Depending on your situation you might not have the resources or physical capacity to "fight" a large insurance company.
There are many studies of complications to surgeries in the feet. I had a hard time finding any on EPF, but I have and they can be quite serious.
There were multiple instances where the Footlaw group brought things to my attention that I had not thought to look in to. I personally found having a "third party" reviewing my records and looking out for my best interests to be advantageous.
Request copies of your personal medical records. Review them. Are they an accurate representation of your medical history? Did or does your doctor's notes indicate his/her complete understanding of your situation? You might be surprised. You might be disgusted.
You doctor should not have any problem releasing a copy of your records to you. This pain is effecting your life. It is to your benefit to learn how to be involved in finding the best treatment available.
Is your condition a consequence of a surgery that should not have been performed? Should you have been referred to another physician? If you have had pain for this long and the doctor is not able to help shouldn't he/she be involved with helping you find a doctor best suited to address your condition?
How would you feel if your doctor considered you a "hypochondriac?"
Over two years I have searched in desperation for answers. There was something very wrong with my feet. I watched my world crumble around me. And I was no better.
Guess what...there are many other causes of pain in the feet, other than plantar fasciitis!!! My original podiatrist continuously assured me that the foot was "quite simple". He was confident in my diagnosis.
Over time I learned about many approaches that should have been considered before surgery. I trusted my doctor--he was "high-tech".
I asked for EMG, MRI. Not necessary, he said. He was confident.
Anyway--I've left my email address so if anyone has a specific question feel free to write. This is my two-cents worth.
The Footlaw group has been of tremendous personal benefit.
I hope you all the best in your pursuit of relief and answers.
John