Monthly Progress Report for Tim J C

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This record is for Tim J C treated by a Podiatrist. The surgery was on 11-12-2003.
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First Entry: Date: 12/06/2003 . . . Pain Level: . . . Activity Level: . . . Satisfaction with surgery:
Been an avid tennis player for better part of last 25 years (I am 45). Last year and a half had developed a searing pain in my left heel. Diagnosed as plantar fasciata with the added "plus" of a heel spur to boot. Over the last 1 1/2 years have had 4 cortisone shots, PT, custom orthotics, tape, and rest. Nothing alleviated the pain long term. The shots worked at best a month to two months, but always the pain came back. Just prior to surgery I was not doing anything athletic (no tennis and golf only on a riding cart--forget about walking the course). Had the surgery on Nov 12th and had a hard cast for 2 weeks. Than a soft cast for another 2 weeks. All 4 weeks I've been on crutches. No real pain from the surgery, but the crutches and the cast have been a major nuisance. The doc said I'd be on crutches for "a few days", but this is now 4 weeks and I think this week I can give them up for a cane. Will report back in next week or two for follow up.

Date: 12/24/2003 . . . Pain Level: 1 . . . Activity Level: 1 . . . Satisfaction with surgery: 7
It is now 6 weeks after surgery, and I am down to using a cane for stabilization. The surgical site is still pretty tender, and walking without the cane is difficult. Hard to say if surgery is a success as yet, as the Dr says at least 8 weeks must go by before the soreness/tenderness goes away. This is still a far cry from the "on crutches for a few days" description I got, but I did not really expect this to be a walk in the park recovery wise. Will check back in two weeks for an update.

Date: 01/07/2004 . . . Pain Level: 1 . . . Activity Level: 1 . . . Satisfaction with surgery: 7
It's 8 weeks since surgery and I am finally off using a cane for stabilization. Foot still tender and I walk with a limp, as I can't yet put full pressure on the foot. The incisions have fully healed up and new skin now forming over them, which is nice. Will check back in 2 weeks for a follow up.

Date: 02/10/2004 . . . Pain Level: 1 . . . Activity Level: 5 . . . Satisfaction with surgery: 8
Sorry for the long delays in posts. I am 3 months post op now, and everything is fine with the foot. No pain and no soreness anymore. I will start playing tennis again soon. Right now I am walking frequently and hitting the exercise bike with no side effects or pain. Very pleased with the results. If anyting changes for the worse I'll report back.

Date: 06/01/2004 . . . Pain Level: 1 . . . Activity Level: 5 . . . Satisfaction with surgery: 8
Hi Tim. I am just starting to research all this and appreciated your report as I am contemplating surgery.- All information is welcome. Did you look into a laser treatment prior to the decision to operate? I am encouraged by your timeline.