Plantar Fasciitis is a common painful condition that will affect up to 80% of the population at some point in their lifetime. The pain may occur anywhere from the ball of the foot to the heel when the tissue in the sole of the foot is overloaded beyond the body’s natural healing capacity. Pain occurs when weight is applied to the foot. The first step out of bed in the morning is often the worst step of the day because of how the foot is positioned during sleep. Sometimes the pain is great enough to prevent people from walking. Luckily most people get better with non-operative treatments. Recommendations for treatment always include stretching for the calf muscle. Other treatments include cushioned footwear, shoe inserts, night splints, anti-inflammatory medications, ice, and massage, just to name a few. While cortisone injections may sometimes provide temporary relief, they are not recommended because they may cause long term damage to the natural cushion on the sole of the foot. Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP injections may be helpful to stimulate a natural healing response which can lead to resolution of symptoms.
Surgical treatments have traditionally included Plantar Fascia Release or “Heel Spur” surgery. While this approach can sometimes provide relief, it is not preferred because it may lead to a fallen arch and corresponding pain on the side of the foot.
The Baumann procedure has been Dr. Rocco’s surgical treatment of choice for Plantar Fasciitis when non-operative measures fail. The Baumann procedure is a simple outpatient procedure performed through a small incision in the mid-calf. Surgical time is generally less than 10 minutes, and patients are able to walk in a boot immediately following surgery. The procedure is very safe and effective, even for patients who have had plantar fasciitis symptoms for many years.
Dr. Rocco Provides Exciting News for Plantar Fasciitis Patients
