HEEL PAIN/ PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Description Plantar Fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that involves the band of fibrous connective tissue (plantar fascia) that runs from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. The plantar fascia may become strained over time and partially tear or stretch along its length or at the point of insertion into the heel bone. This leads to inflammation, pain, and may be accompanied by the growth of a bone or heel spur. Common symptoms include experiencing sharp heel or arch pain upon waking up and taking the first step of the day. Symptoms may decrease during the day but often flare up again in the late afternoon or evening. Conservative Treatment Conservative treatment is usually successful in relieving the inflammation and pain of plantar fasciitis. However, it may take an extended period of treatment, even upward of a year, to relieve the pain. Conservative treatments include rest, ice, arch support, tape, night splints, orthotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and steroid injections.

Conventional Surgery
Surgery may be indicated for patients who fail to benefit from conservative treatment. The conventional surgical approach, an Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy, involves making an incision and then severing, or releasing, part or all of the plantar fascia.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT) is a safe and effective, non-invasive (no incisions) alternative that eliminates many of the risks associated with conventional surgery. ESWT is indicated for patients who have experienced heel pain for six or more months and have not responded to conservative treatment. ESWT delivers high-energy sound waves, or acoustical energy, to the affected area to create a micro trauma that promotes revascularization and triggers the body’s natural repair mechanisms. The FDA first approved high-energy ESWT for chronic proximal plantar fasciitis in October 2000.

Benefits of ESWT include non-invasive treatment, a high success rate, single treatment protocol, and fast recovery with quick return to work and normal activities. Studies have shown very high success rates in eliminating or significantly reducing pain. Talk to your doctor about your specific medical condition to see if ESWT is right for you.

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