Plantar Fascia Release
Plantar Fascia Release
Plantar fascia release is carried out to reduce tension and chronic inflammation to the tendon.
A small incision is made on the inside of the heel. The plantar fascia is then detached from the heel, alternatively small incisions may be made on either side to release tension. Damaged tissue may be removed if your foot surgeon finds some present, alternatively the bone may be smoothed, which allows the plantar fascia to heal under less tension.
You should rest at home for the first two-four weeks following the procedure. Between two-four weeks you can return to work. You should avoid high impact activities until three months postoperative.
Plantar Fascia Release: Frequently Asked Questions
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue on the bottom of your foot. Surgery cuts through part of it to release the tension that’s causing your heel pain. We can do it with a traditional cut or through tiny keyhole incisions.
Surgery is a last resort—only when heel pain has bothered you for 6+ months despite stretching, special shoes, anti-inflammatory meds, and physio helping enough.
Yes! About 9 out of 10 people get better with conservative stuff: stretching, night splints, meds, physio, weight management, and proper insoles. Most just need time and patience.
For people who’ve really tried everything and still suffer, it works 75-90% of the time. But since most cases resolve without surgery, it’s not something you’d jump into lightly.
Initial recovery is 2-3 weeks, weight-bearing improves over 4-6 weeks, and you’re back to normal by 6-8 weeks. The healing continues for a few months.
Depends on your job: desk work at 2-3 weeks, work on your feet at 4-6 weeks, and heavy manual work at 6-8 weeks. Activity gradually increases during this time.
Risks are low but include infection, nerve issues, or your arch flattening slightly. Most complications are uncommon, though post-surgery symptoms differ from pre-surgery symptoms sometimes.
