Many people live with plantar fasciitis. While traditional treatments like stretching, orthotics, and physical therapy offer relief for some, plantar fascia embolization has emerged as the current best plantar fasciitis treatment. This minimally invasive procedure targets the root cause of pain, offering long-lasting relief for chronic sufferers who haven’t responded to conservative methods.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition causing heel pain that can significantly impact daily activities. While traditional treatments include stretching, orthotics, and medications, plantar fascia embolization is emerging as a superior option for chronic cases. This minimally invasive procedure offers quick recovery and long-lasting relief, making it an ideal choice for those suffering from persistent plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. The primary symptom is a sharp, stabbing pain near the heel, typically worst in the morning or after periods of rest.
Causes include:
- Repetitive strain
- Poor foot mechanics
- Prolonged standing
Risk factors include being overweight, having flat feet or high arches, and being between 40-70 years old.
Plantar fasciitis can significantly impact your daily life by interfering with walking, standing, and exercise. Many sufferers report intense pain (8 out of 10 on a pain scale) that restricts physical activities and affects their ability to perform routine tasks.
Traditional treatments
Traditional treatments for plantar fasciitis typically begin with conservative methods. These include stretching exercises targeting the calf muscles and plantar fascia, which can significantly reduce pain and improve flexibility.
Orthotics, such as supportive shoes, heel pads, or custom inserts, help distribute pressure and reduce tension on the fascia. Applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes, 3-4 times daily, can also help alleviate pain and inflammation.
For medication, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are commonly prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, cortisone injections may be administered to provide relief for up to 6 months.
Physical therapy programs often incorporate specialized stretching routines. These strengthening exercises support the toe flexors and ankle muscles while massages decrease inflammation.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is sometimes used for chronic cases. This non-invasive procedure uses high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing in the damaged plantar fascia tissue. However, its effectiveness has shown mixed results.
The Best Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar Fascia Embolization
Plantar fascia embolization (PFE) is emerging as the best treatment for plantar fasciitis thanks to its minimally invasive nature and impressive success rates. Embolization is a unique procedure that blocks blood flow to specific areas, reducing inflammation and pain at the source.
PFE treats plantar fasciitis by targeting the inflamed blood vessels in the plantar fascia. The procedure involves several steps:
- Local anesthesia is administered for patient comfort.
- A thin catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the groin or ankle.
- Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the blood vessels supplying the inflamed plantar fascia.
- Tiny embolic particles, often antibiotic foam, are injected to block blood flow from the capillaries to the affected area.
- The catheter is removed, and the incision site is bandaged.
The entire procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
The expected outcomes are impressive, with 84% of patients seeing improvement. Most patients report lasting results for a year or more, making PFE a promising long-term solution for chronic plantar fasciitis.
Benefits of Plantar Fascia Embolization
Plantar fascia embolization offers significant benefits, making it the best treatment for plantar fasciitis for many patients. As a minimally invasive procedure, it requires only a small puncture, resulting in:
- Less trauma
- Minimal scarring
- Reduced infection risk
- No need for lengthy rehab
Recovery time is remarkably quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days to a week.
PFE also provides long-lasting results, with many patients reporting relief for a year or more. It’s highly effective for chronic cases thanks to its high success rate with studies showing a 100% success rate during the procedure and pain scores dropping from 8.5 to 1.0 on average.
For those battling plantar fasciitis for six months or longer without relief, PFE offers a promising alternative to surgery with minimal complications.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
To take advantage of the best treatment for plantar fasciitis, you first need to be a good candidate. This is typically someone who has been suffering from chronic plantar fasciitis for six months or longer without relief from conservative treatments. Ideal candidates experience persistent heel pain that significantly impacts their daily activities and quality of life.
They may have also been unsuccessful with:
- Physical therapy
- Orthotics
- Medications
- Steroid injections
PFE is particularly suitable for those who want to avoid surgery or cannot afford extended recovery time.
Talk to your doctor about PFE if your plantar fasciitis pain interferes with work or daily activities, doesn’t improve after several weeks of home remedies, or becomes severe enough to limit mobility.
Choose APEX Vascular for Your Plantar Fascia Embolization Treatment
APEX Vascular in Knoxville, TN, offers exceptional care with plantar fascia embolization, the best treatment for plantar fasciitis. Our experienced vascular surgeons provide personalized, high-quality care using advanced technology.
You can expect the best results possible thanks to our interdisciplinary approach and commitment to your well-being. We explain your options and create treatment plans tailored to your needs. With multiple locations across East Tennessee, we ensure accessible, advanced vascular care.
Our focus is on patient empowerment, respect, and dignity, combined with our expertise in vascular treatments. This makes APEX Vascular the premier choice for plantar fascia embolization and other vascular procedures in the region.
Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot condition causing heel pain, can disrupt daily life. While conventional treatments exist, plantar fascia embolization is emerging as the best treatment for plantar fasciitis. This minimally invasive procedure provides rapid recovery and enduring relief, offering hope to those struggling with chronic symptoms and seeking an effective, long-term solution.
APEX Vascular is a vascular surgery and vein center with locations in Knoxville, Lenoir City, Crossville, Decatur, Harrogate, and Sevierville, TN. We are dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality care that goes beyond medical treatment. Our exceptional vascular staff, boasting extensive experience in vascular surgery, works tirelessly to elevate the standards of patient care and contribute to your overall well-being. Visit us online or call us at 865-562-3232 to request an appointment today!
