Name: Scott
Email:monte2960@earthlink.net
Date: Sunday, June 13, 1999 at 23:13:30
Comments:

I had been suffering from PF for years. I was extremely active and had tried everything. (Anti inflam.icing, stretching, cortizone shots, orthotics, ect.) It progressed to a point were I couldn't walk around longer than 20-30 min . I was in some serious pain. I had to do something and decided to have the standard PF surgery along with the nerve entrapment release. I was walking 5 days after surgery. No pain what so ever. It has been 4 months now and I'm pain free, (knock on wood). I'm extremely happy with the surgery,& can walk & RUN with no problem.

I had a PF a year ago. The surgery went well but as a nurse I am on my feet about 13 hours a day. I went back to work after a month but the pain continued for 3 months before I noticed it was gone. Now I have the same problem with my Right foot and I am trying to decide if I want the surgery again. I don't know if it is due to me trying to protect my right foot but the Left foot from the old surgery is starting to hurt again. I sit down and I can hardly walk after sitting. I tryed the cortisone shots which I don't think even helped. No one knows what a pain it is to have this problem. I found the rubber heel cups helps some. So I try to use them. As a nurse there is no way to stay off my feet. I try to have good shoes with a good arch... Is there more information on the new shock treeatment and what is the success rate. My Dr has not heard of it yet.

Argh! I have pf in both feet without spurs (so far). I thought I was feeling about 50% better after taping, stretching, and biking. I haven't been running for 2 months. I had a cortizione shot last night and haven't been able to walk since, I had to crawl around my apartment. Has this ever been anyone elses response to cortizone? I had such high hopes.

Week #4 - Post PF Surgery. Each day my foot seems to get better. I am now completely off of crutches. In fact I went house hunting on Sunday (and paid for it in pain), but a couple of days later the pain has subsided. The doc gave me the ok to get back in the pool which I immediately did. Kicking was not a problem, I just pushed off from the wall with one foot. I can walk gingerly and still need to elevate my foot to avoid pain, but I must say the surgery seems to be working. I'm wearing running shoes all the time to cushion the foot somewhat. I have no indication that the same pain pre-surgery exists. Tucker

Renee, how do you feel since the surgery. I had a tarsal tunnel release and a PF release the end of March. I am not sure what the tarsal tunnel felt like on it's own. What were you feeling that the doctor identified TTS? Did they do a Nerve Test?

I had a tarsal tunnel release on May 18th 1999. I found this page, I hope you do not mind if I write here about it because I have searched other places. Please if anyone has had a tarsal tunel release or knows of another place I can go in the net to get to people who have had this surgery email me back. I am 37yrs old, a nurse, mother of one, and wife. Thank you for letting me in. RENEE

Ken, you had exactly what I had done at the end of December with the exception of the heelspurs being scrapped. I am a new person. I am back in sandals, going barefoot in the house, mowing the lawn, squatting to plant flowers and doing everythings else I want to do but was so limited on for 4 years. I have a little tendonitis on the outside of my left foot, but stretching it several times a day helps to eliminate that discomfort. Anyone considering the 3/4 release...read Ken's post, that is the only way to go!! You will feel great!

Please help;;; After 30 years of suffering with heel spurs and just having major back surgery, titanium plate and screws, My back Dr, stated i was throwing my back out because of the manner I was trying to walk. I had tried the massages and therapy to no benefit. My left foot was operated on the old fashioned way (I guess) but the entire muscle was cut . th eDr. stated it bounced like the strongest rubberband he had ever seen. The very large spur was removed. My foot isstill in extreme pain 2 years after the surgery. I feel as if the foot had been encased in a concrete block and I've marched for 10 miles. I use Nike airs with RX orthodinics in them and am on pain med . I just went to a new Dr and he told me the foot is collasped and now arthritic. His opinion is the damage has been done and the pain will only get worse. He claims that Kaiser only cuts 1/3 of the muscle as when the entire muscle is severed this is the result. I would like to know how long ago it was suggested to not cut the muscle completely. My foot hurts 24 hours a day even at night. I was better off before the surgery.

After a year of suffering and trying all the available remedies,shots, orthotics.pt. icing, stretching,casting etc. I had the surgery today.I had the least invasive type. It is called the percuteanous incision. Only one small incision on the medial(inside) side of the ankle, He did apartial release only on that side and filed down the spur.By using this method healing time is greatly reduced and by cutting the fascia only on the inside, the pain that sometimes results on the other side of the foot (column pain) is reduced. So far no pain at all , of course I have had it elevated all day but have not taken any pain pills yet.Before surgery, at least the last month I have been taking about 10,000 mg Vit C a day to help with the healing. Will keep you posted, good luck to you all Ken

Week #3 Post Surgery - - - - I have now completed one week of work in the office (after 2 weeks at home). It was not so bad. I elevated my foot on a trash can under my desk and was not shy about putting my feet up. It did get old to stay at my desk for most of the day, but being at work makes the day go faster. I can now walk around in the house on my foot, but more than 5 mins. is intolerable. A quick icing afterwards relieves the pain. Stitches are still in. Crutches are still my form of long distance transportation. Next week I go for the 4 week follow up with my doc. I'm also told I can get in the pool week 4. Can't wait! My foot seems to be healing.... My doc recommended the 1/2 pf release for me since it would maintain some integrity in the structure of my foot. And open because he could see better what was going on in my foot. In my case, he cleaned out a fair amount of scar tissue and released the nerve. My doc also said that he knows of the full release being done, but requiring hard casting afterwards.

I had the old, traditional PF surgery in 1995 on my right foot and it did not help. I also got nerve damage fromthe procedure. I am considering EPF. (i've had pf for 7 yrs. in both feet). My question is: Has anyone out there had the old surgery and later the EPF (on either foot) and were the results of each procedure different?

I also am scheduled to have pf surgery in a week. My decision was made after 17 months of suffering from heel pain. I tried everything that the doc prescribed but no relief. So I've decided to do it, im totally fed up with pain on the heel there's no other option but to have surgery and hope for the best. Im having the complete release of the pf--my question--- is there a difference on partial release to total release of the pf? Is one more risky than the other, take longer to heel, cause long-term problems later on? If anyone has info please email me or up date the page.

Peggy, Thanks for sharing your experiences. I hope to follow in your footsteps and bike pedaling. I started putting some weight on my foot yesterday and today and even went out to dinner with some friends last night. I must say that my foot did hurt yesterday and today in the evening, so I think I may have overdone it. Ironically, my doctor told me that "you can't hurt the foot now, it's just a matter of you being able to stand the pain." I'm not sure what to think about this statement, but I'll continue to try to take it easy. I will try to go back to work on Monday, two weeks after surgery. I will have to keep my foot elevated and not move around much if I'm to avoid a painful day. I find walking on the front ball of my foot tolerable at this point and supporting myself with crutches and putting some weight on the afflicted foot. I dream of the day when I'll walk pain free and even run..... Tucker

Well, I have finally found some time to post my surgery info. Peggy, I have sent you an e-mail (so sorry). I had my EPF surgery (on my right foot) the day before Peggy - April 7th. I walked out of the surgery and went to Shoney's for breakfast. First week - absolutely no pain! None, zip! I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Then, some pain started to come back and then some more. But nothing like it was before the surgery. I went to the doctor. He informed me that since I was so bull-headed (I teach high school and am the activities director so I am really busy and up and around), it was just going to take me longer to heal, but that I would heal. I went back to school two weeks after the surgery, a little too soon. After my doctor's visit, I slowed down, paid attention to the fact that as my doctor said had the equivalent of a screwdriver put through my foot, and rested my foot frequently. Now, after six weeks, I feel like I am 85% better. It is still tender in the morning, but I don't have to crawl to the bathroom. I still take anti-inflammatory drugs and I still ice about four times a week. I wear my tennis shoes and orthotics (which I will probably have to wear forever, but that's okay), but... at our Award Assembly yesterday, I wore pumps - real shoes for the first time in years. My students went crazy. Of course, immediately after the assembly, the tennis shoes and orthotics went back on. I go to the doctor again on the 3rd of June and hope he releases me. On June 6th I plan to start walking again (I used to walk five miles every single day, but that was seven years ago). I picked June 6th because my husband and I are going to Daytona. The beach is perfect place to walk. The most exciting thing, other than the fact that my feet are not hurting 24-7 is that when I stand up after sitting for a while, I do not have to wait and get adjusted to the pain. There is very, very little. I know everyone is different, but I thank God every day I am better!! Good luck to everyone!!

Has anyone heard of Dr. Hartley Miltchin in Toronto (Canada)?? He does EPF and I'm considering it.

Almost forgot! I also did stationery bike (with no resistance) for 30 minutes last night. I play to try to start walking a little at a time in another month or so, depending on how the foot feels. Lola, are you okay? I haven't heard from you in awhile and I'm worried about you, girl! I know you were starting to have problems when we talked last. Let me know if you are okay when you get a chance and I'm thinking about you! Peggy

Tucker, it was TWO weeks to the day before I could totally get immersed in the shower. And I was MISERABLE that two weeks! That and being confined to the house was enough to drive me crazy. I hated sponge baths and trying to wash my hair in the sink. That's the two worst things about the surgery. If you can get past that, you have it made! Last Thursday was my 6 weeks post op and I'm doing better every day. I'm wearing walking/aerobic shoes this weekend and if I do alright, I will wear them to work Monday and get rid of that heavy cast. I haven't had any pain so far. But I'm very careful not to overdo. If my ankle, foot, heel, arch, etc. begins to feel tired, sore or weak, I get off of it and prop and ice. I feel it has paid off. Slow is the word. Never forget that and you will be alright! I'm getting out of here today! It's a movie and a trip to the bookstore for me! Good luck to everyone! Peggy

After almost 3 years of PF in both feet, I'm contemplating surgery. If you have or have had PF you KNOW how much it hurts and how incredibly inconvenient it is. Gosh! Walking used to be so easy!! I read a lot here that scares me. Any words here if you've had success would be appreciated. Good luck to you (and me.) Dan

I have been reading posting for the last month or so and have been encouraged by reading about others' experiences. Despite reading some of the horror and not-so-successful stories, I went ahead on May 10 with the traditional Plantar fasciia release surgery (1/2 release). The surgery took one hour which included some clean up of scar tissue. I was in recovery for one hour, then I was sent home. I must say that I have not been in too much pain. I only had to take pain medicine a few times. I've been out of work for a week and a half (with only two more days off planned). I've been working from home and gratefully haven't had to move around much. I try to keep my foot elevated which seems to relieve any pain that I do experience. The doc tells me I should start putting 1/2 my weight on the foot next week. But I plan to go one day at a time. I had pf for 2 years, first noticing it after completing a 1/2 Ironman triathlon. I continued running, albeit much less for 3 months when I finally gave up. I tried: hard cast, taping, orthodics, magnetic inserts, cortisone shot, night splint, walking booot, physical therapy (stretching, electrical stim, ultrasound), NSAIDS. I got to the point where I couldn't stand for any period of time and had to ice my foot every day (I have a desk job too!) Pain came every day around noon and stayed until bed time. Even biking irritated my foot. Swimming was my only salvation. Now I'm told to wait 2 1/2 more weeks before I can get into the pool. When did anyone else start taking a shower after surgery or get into a pool for any period of time? I'm also growing a nice beard. Any other advice for surviving the first few weeks after surgery are welcomed. Thanks, Tucker

Well, I jumped the gun too much (see post further down). My feet are screaming at me today. Guess one good day was not a cure day. I'll keep working at it! The burning just won't go away.

I had surgery on Dec. 9, 1998 for plantar fasciitus after a year of cortisone injections and ultra-sound alternating between both feet. The doctor said that the fascias in both feet were as hard as a rock. He clipped two of the fascias in both feet and scraped heel spurs from both feet. My doctor told me that discomfort up to a year is normal, usually along the outside of the foot, in the ankle, in the toes, and at the incision sight. I have had all of those discomforts in off & on aches like spasms. I still find it difficult to be on my feet for long periods of time but there is great improvement over before-surgery. Be patient; healing takes time. I've found that wearing ted-hose, Ice on 5 minutes, off 5 minutes, hot massage foot soaks, Easy Spirit walking shoes with padded insoles, and elevating my feet above my heart helps a lot. DON'T RUN AFTER YOUR DOG OR CAT POST-SURGERY. IT COULD UN-DO YOUR SURGERY! I know of someone who did that.

Okay, I've had the the surgery. Not the EPF, but the real surgery in which my heel spur was removed and the fascia snipped. It's been three weeks today. How long, can anyone who's had this surgery tell me, before it doesn't hurt like heck to walk again. I only have one more week off work, and at this point can't imagine my foot feeling much better in only one more week. Any words from someone who's been there and done that?

Okay, I've had the the surgery. Not the EPF, but the real surgery in which my heel spur was removed and the fascia snipped. It's been three weeks today. How long, can anyone who's had this surgery tell me, before it doesn't hurt like heck to walk again. I only have one more week off work, and at this point can't imagine my foot feeling much better in only one more week. Any words from someone who's been there and done that?

This is a follow up to my post of April 27. Well, it has been 6 weeks since surgery in my right foot. I've got PF in both feet. I have been faithfully taking supplements mentioned on Scott's page. I have been wearing my orthotics every day. I've been stretching and using a rolling pin under my foot to massage. I even bought this foot log at Target which has nubbs on it to massage the foot. It's great! I use ice every night for 20-30 minutes. I even bought magnetic insoles since I've been learning about magnetic therapy. And I've been resting so as to not overdue the stress on my feet. :-) Today, the first time in 10 years, I do not have any burning or tingling in my feet, except for minor tingling that is associated with the magnetic insoles which increase circulation in the foot which, in turn, promotes healing. I am still cautious when walking on my surgery foot since there is some pain in the heal and still some scar tissue under the ball of my foot. If I move too fast I notice the fascia feels tight and like its tearing, so I move slowly. But I walked the dog today and had no trouble with pain. It felt good, but I'm going to take it slow. I even wore my Birks today without any trouble. It was very strange when I finally realized, wow, my feet don't hurt. This seems to be a long and slow process of healing and patience is required. I'll keep up all the things I am doing since they seem to be working -- although I cannot pinpoint which one is the most successful. I'll take one day at a time and will post more later to let you know how the next few weeks go. I sincerely believe the benefits come from stretching, icing, resting, and supplements to cut down on inflammation. I've been willing to try many things to ease the pain and find the message board a tremendous support and encouragement. I'm not saying surgery is the answer because I still have the left foot to deal with, and both feet feel about the same, so what was the point in having the surgery? At any rate, each person is different and this is my post for today.

I had surgery in April on my left foot for to release the fashia and shave the heel spur down. Since the surgery I have been in physical theropy for two months and had several injections in both feet. This has not helped. The pain is very bad. My surgeon said that there is a lot of inflamation in my feet and suggests that I give them a rest. I must go to work but fortunately I have a desk job so I can keep my feet on ice and elevated if needed. I also have been given inserts for my shoes. The surgeon does not reccommend orthotics because he said it would hurt me more than it can help me. Is there any suggestions for me. I am really frustrated because I have been suffering with this pain for 1 year now and even surgery hasn't even worked.

I am having surgery to repair a severly cracked left heel. I'm assuming screws, pins, etc. Does anyone have info on recovery time, proceedures?

Okay, I didn't forget you all. I've just been taking this recovery thing really slow. I had a partial release on the left foot April 8th (was originally scheduled for the 1st). I am a little over 4 weeks post op and doing better every day. The first 10 days were the worst, only because I was confined to the house and bored out of my mind. You can only watch so many movies, read books and have so many bonbons!!! The surgery itself was a breeze. Almost no pain afterward! I only had to take two or three pain pills and that was mostly so I could sleep at night, not really for the pain. I had numbness the first day or so, then after that wore off, I had a tiny twinge or two of pain in the arch. That's all!! I was on crutches for the first ten days. I am in an air cast boot thing now, was told I'd be in it 4-6 weeks. When I went back Thursday, he said to wear it one more week at least. I have been back at work for a week now. Monday and Tuesday were hardest, since I hadn't been on the foot much. It would be swollen and a little sore at night, so I would prop and ice it at night. I think that made a big difference because Friday was a really easy day. I walked a little more on it during the day and it wasn't sore or swollen at all Friday night. The key is to take it SLOW. I know you will be tempted after a week or two to start being on the foot more, but DON'T! This is a false sense of wellness. Sure, it will feel better, but it is still recovering from the surgery. Don't rush it, or believe me, you will have problems!!! I have really babied my foot and feel it has paid off. My doctor wanted me out of work for at least three weeks. I have a good walk from the parking lot to my desk, so I only did that coming in to work and leaving and then I would go downstairs (take the elevator!!) to the cafeteria once for lunch. If I needed ice, drinks or anything else, I would let a co-worker get it for me. My doctor has now okayed me to do stationery bike with NO RESISTANCE and start off very slow. 5-10 minutes a day. Hope this info. helps. Remember, if you take it slow and listen to your foot, I don't think you will have any problems. But you must listen to that foot. If it's sore one day from overdoing, stay off it the next day and ICE and PROP!!! Feel free to email me if you have Qs! Peggy

Okay, I didn't forget you all. I've just been taking this recovery thing really slow. I had a partial release on the left foot April 8th (was originally scheduled for the 1st). I am a little over 4 weeks post op and doing better every day. The first 10 days were the worst, only because I was confined to the house and bored out of my mind. You can only watch so many movies, read books and have so many bonbons!!! The surgery itself was a breeze. Almost no pain afterward! I only had to take two or three pain pills and that was mostly so I could sleep at night, not really for the pain. I had numbness the first day or so, then after that wore off, I had a tiny twinge or two of pain in the arch. That's all!! I was on crutches for the first ten days. I am in an air cast boot thing now, was told I'd be in it 4-6 weeks. When I went back Thursday, he said to wear it one more week at least. I have been back at work for a week now. Monday and Tuesday were hardest, since I hadn't been on the foot much. It would be swollen and a little sore at night, so I would prop and ice it at night. I think that made a big difference because Friday was a really easy day. I walked a little more on it during the day and it wasn't sore or swollen at all Friday night. The key is to take it SLOW. I know you will be tempted after a week or two to start being on the foot more, but DON'T! This is a false sense of wellness. Sure, it will feel better, but it is still recovering from the surgery. Don't rush it, or believe me, you will have problems!!! I have really babied my foot and feel it has paid off. My doctor wanted me out of work for at least three weeks. I have a good walk from the parking lot to my desk, so I only did that coming in to work and leaving and then I would go downstairs (take the elevator!!) to the cafeteria once for lunch. If I needed ice, drinks or anything else, I would let a co-worker get it for me. My doctor has now okayed me to do stationery bike with NO RESISTANCE and start off very slow. 5-10 minutes a day. Hope this info. helps. Remember, if you take it slow and listen to your foot, I don't think you will have any problems. But you must listen to that foot. If it's sore one day from overdoing, stay off it the next day and ICE and PROP!!! Feel free to email me if you have Qs! Peggy

Hi all--I've had bilateral PF (or so I thought) for 5 years. This week I was diagnosed with nerve entrapment. Heel decompression surgery (not TT decom) was recommended. Anyone hear of it or know anything about it? Evidently, the calcaneal (?) nerve at the back of the heel is involved. The cut is made in the same place as that for PF release and the area around the nerve is reamed out. Any info or resources are welcome. Thanks, Janet

It has been several months now since my last posting and several people have recently e-mailed me to share concerns and ask questions. Although everyone's case and situation is a little different, there are common threads through all the surgery postings. It seems to me that most people do properly use the surgery guestbook site and most often address their comments to plantar fasciitis surgery; concerns as to whether or not to have it; and the post-surgical issues of whether the surgery is seen as a "success" or a "failure." My own case centers on the problems that have developed in post-plantar fasciitis surgery period. The surgery for me is a done deal. I have detailed them in earlier postings, but in a nutshell, these problems have surfaced in the 11 years (1988) since I had my surgery. My surgery was a "radical" plantar fasciotomy, in which the medial aspect of both the median and lateral bands were severed in the "release" of the plantar fascia. My initial post-recovery period was characterized by the realization that while pain in the heel was significantly reduced, my arch had been profoundly altered, thereby affecting my gait. Over the years the consequences of the shortened arch have caused me to walk more to the side of the foot, thereby stressing the foot and causing over the years, a major accumulation of scar tissue at and around the surgical site. In addition, there is now significant nerve sensitivity and pain in a major nerve that runs down the center of the foot, to the side of the surgical site. For me, these are serious, life-altering effects that came only as a consequence of having had the surgery. The effects are worse than the problems associated with the original plantar fasciitis itself. Re-reading the comments of Lisa, Melody and Jeanie (all within the last few weeks) has reminded me of the multitude of problems associated with the surgery. It seems like some of these are in a sense, direct "failures" of the surgery itself; in other cases, these problems are unintended consequences or long-term side-effects of a "successful" surgery. I am particularly interested in hearing from folks with shortened arches, scar tissue and nerve problems in the longer-term post surgery period. How can scar tissue and nerve problems be successfully treated?

Sorry, I gave wrong email at my last posting. It's now been 5 days since surgery and I can't believe how painless this has been. I can walk without the moon boot looking shoe or crutches doc gave me without pain. Of course I do this cautiously. Before surgery I had shooting pains in my foot just sitting. I knew that my spur was the cause of my pain. I just knew it when I saw the xray of that thing. It had to come out. Stretching, shots, accupuncture, ultrasound, massage, orthotics, icing, steriods... I did it all. It was the spur. I realize I could very well be speaking too soon, but my foot hasn't felt better in a loooong time, and I still have in the stitches. Just thought I'd let you all know my experience.

I just had surgery Friday, April 30th. The old kind. I tried all, and I mean ALL of the alternative treatments for about eight months. No luck. I insisted my doctor perform surgery. He didn't want to do so he could see better what was in there. It's been just about 48 hours. I have no pain, and I can cautiously on it without pain. If this keeps up, I imagine I'll be fine in a couple of weeks. I was religious in taking supplemental Vitamin C for four weeks prior to my surgery, 10,000 mg a day and still do to aid in the scar tissue prevention. In my gut, I knew that this spur had to come out. All of the talk of stretching and orthotics and all of that stuff, which I did, does not work. I saw my Xray. I had a HUGE spur and it had to come out. I realize I may be speaking too soon about the result, but I do believe I did the right thing thus far. I experience no pain whatsoever. I'll keep in touch. Good luck.

It has been 4 weeks since my surgery (partial pf release and tarsal tunnel decompression. I am walking without cain or crutches. I am wearing tennis shoes for support all the time. Can someone tell me what kind of New Balance the doctors are recommending? Also, I still have a lot of stiffness in my ankle and some swelling as well. This is on the outside of my left foot. My incision was on the inside. Does anyone else have this kind of pain? I still have pain in my heel occassionally and some pain in the front of my foot. I wonder if I have some other condition as well. I find it difficult to find a comfortable positon sleeping. I have taken to putting two pillows at the bottom of my bed and hanging both feet over them. They would hurt when I had heavy blankets and sheets laying on them. This sounds pretty negative. However, I go back to the surgeon tomorrow and will discuss these issues with him. I am going to be optimistic about the prognosis. Thanks for listning.

I found it extremely helpful to purchase a lightweight shower bench for about 20-30 dollars. This takes the pressure off your feet while you shower.

I AM TWO MONTHS OUT OF PF SURGERY AND AM DOING WELL. SOMETIMES READING THE BAD NEWS OF SOME UNFORTUNATE SUFFERERS CAN BECOME VERY DISCOURAGING, BUT IT IS NOT ALL BAD NEWS. I TRIED SHOES, ORTHODICS, TAPING, ICING, EXERCIZES, MEDICATION, SHOTS, PHYSICAL THERAPY, AND NOTHING HELPED. MY PODIATRIST FINALLY DID SURGERY AND I AM VERY ENCOURAGED. I AM NOT 100% YET, BUT EACH WEEK SHOWS IMPROVEMENT. I AM MUCH BETTER THAN BEFORE SURGERY. I WAS STARTING TO HAVE TROUBLE WITH THE OTHER FOOT, BUT SINCE SURGERY THE DR. HAS TREATED THAT FOOT. BETWEEN TREATMENT AND TAKING THE STRESS OFF OF IT FROM FAVORING THE SURGICAL FOOT, THAT PAIN IN DECREASING AS WELL. I MIGHT ADD THAT I AM A PRIMARY TEACHER AND SPEND MY ENTIRE DAY ON MY FOOT. I ONLY MISSED THREE WEEKS OF WORK. HANG IN, FIND A DOCTOR YOU TRUST AND LIKE, AND GO FOR IT.

I have had two morton nuromas removed from the right foot, now, I have a metartarsl problme and Now I have had a large heel spur removed for the rt foot, then pain , physical theraphy, now another x-ray and another heel spur has appeard just since the surgery in Jan 22, now another injection last night and still lots of pain. He, orthopedic, will want to do surgery again. Is this usless now, Can't hardly walk on it, i have great range of moting since the physical Theraphy. what to do?

Hi. I, too, have suffered from plantar fascitis and tarsel tunnel syndrome for 10+ years. The first doctor I went to 10 years ago told me there was nothing he could do for me -- at that time he x-rayed and found heel spurs -- to deal with the pain. So I did, for 10 years until my foot and leg began to collapse from under me. Then I knew it was time to go to another doctor. All the while I suffered intense pain in my feet thinking there was nothing that could be done. I have been going to a podiatrist for 6 months. I've had cortisone shots, taping, NSAIDS. I've used ice often, almost every night. I have orthotics. Yet, I still suffer from pain -- intense burning and tingling in my feet, sometimes numbness. I had surgery on my right foot three weeks ago. My doctor said I should be able to walk the same day, but I was on crutches for a week and I am still limping on my right foot. It still burns after more than 1/2 hour of walking. My toes are numb and I feel like I'm walking on a lump. My left foot has gotten worse because I am overcompensating and putting more pressure on my left. The ice helps only while it is on. Once I begin to walk, the burning and tingling come back. The pain in my right foot is the same as it was before surgery. Over the counter pain killers do nothing and my prescription has run out. If only I could take the ice with me everywhere I went. This has put a tremendous damper on my social life. I was a person who wore sandles and sundresses often. I do have high arches, but the sneakers don't go with many outfits so I've learned to become a lot more practical. But forget fashion! The majority of my clothes don't even go with sneakers. And how do you find new clothes that are dressy with sneakers? That doesn't help the ego. Not only that, I know I could stand to lose 25 pounds. Since my condition got worse I stopped working out and using a step machine. I was in shape. Now it is extremely difficult to exercise; therefore, the weight gain. Yet, in order to help heal my condition, I need to lose weight, but I can't because it hurts so bad. It's a vicious circle. Just taking a shower barefoot is terribly painful, never mind even trying to wear another type of shoes. I wear my orthotics from the minute I get up to the minute I go to bed. Classy with pajamas! I'm going to school to become a teacher, but teachers are on their feet most of the day. I don't know now if I can do this. My whole life has changed. It kills me to tell my kids I can't go for a walk or play at the park with them because my feet hurt too much. The pain is so horrible, never mind what this has done to me psychologically. Berkinstocks do not work for me. Even my orthotics hurt after a while. I've become frustrated and depressed. I know three weeks is not much time for the surgery and I need to let it heal a bit longer. The doctor wants to do the left foot now. Does anyone have any suggestions on anything else that has worked? I will try anything. Are there any shoes at all that are dressy? Thanks for listening to me. I'm just tired of all of this after ten years.

HELP! I've had my Plantars Facia released ( a complete seperation - not just the recommended 1/3 realease) on both feet. I am experiencing extreme pain at the head of the 5th Metatarsals and painful arches. I have been going to Physicat Theraphy and my great therapist is trying some special taping of the the feet. This provides some relief. Is there a way to correct the COMPLETE RELEASE of the Plantars Facia?

HI FOLKS,I HAD THE CUT AND FILE DONE ON RIGHT FOOT IN 1993 AFTER 6 MTS LIFE WAS HEAVEN AGAIN AOK IN OCT 1998 GUESS WHAT I HAD THE LEFT FOOT DONE PF THIS TIME SURGERY IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO NOW LISTEN VERY CAREFULLY DO www.mephistocentral.com these shoes made in france are god sent you will WALK WALK WALK ON A CLOUD GOD BLESS AND HANG IN THERE LIGHT IS AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL.

I would like to hear from anyone out there who had EPF after previously having conventional surgery performed. I twice tried pf release and both times it did no good whatsoever. I'm desperate enough now to want to know if I'm eligible for EPF or if the previous surgery has made that treatment useless. Thanks, and good luck to all.

Whoops!!!!!! This is my correct e-mail address. Sorry about that.

I had surgery performed by my podiatrist in his office a year ago May. I tried special made orthotics, medications, casts, and cortisone shots. Nothing seemed to help so I opted for the surgery. I have been on and off again with the casts since the surgery. I am now in what is called a Richie brace. It has a special orthotic (custom made for my foot) attached to a plastic brace with two velco straps that go past my ankle. You can keep the ankle in a fixed position or have it flexed. The doctor took some screws out and made it flexed, but my heel hurt so bad I had it fixed not to flex. The doctor ordered a bone scan two weeks ago to see if there was something wrong with the heel bone. The bone is OK, but the scan showed inflammation in the surgery area. The doctor then put me on Daypro-1200 mg a day. This did not work, so now I have started again with the cortisone shots. The doctor said he can now target the area from having the bone scan done. I still have some numbness in my heel, but doctor said this is normal and will eventually go away. Sometimes, I get really frustrated with the whole situation, but life is too short to ponder on this one unfortunate situation. The doctor has hope for me. I really have faith in the doctor and really feel he is trying everything to get rid of my problem. Im glad he hasnt given up on me. Someday, things will be better. Im hoping.

CAN SOMEONE TELL ME WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY YOU ARE DOING AFTER PF SURGERY? CAN SOMEONE EXPLAIN THE MASSAGE TREATMENT? THANKS

It's been 15 weeks now since my surgery and I am playing tennis, walking and back to normal. A great payoff after 4 years of doing nothing because of so much pain. I just wanted to add some encouraging words to the board on surgery. I did have some mid arch pain for awhile but it has gone away with massage work. If you need encouragement, e-mail me. My pf release was a great success!!

Like many of the rest of you, I had pain. Lots of PAIN. Mine has gone on for 12+ years. Mine first started when I was pregnant with my first child. The podiatrist gave me 2 cortisone injections, taped my foot for awhile, and then made me custom orthotics which took about a year to relieve the pain but eventually did. Then, after years of wearing orthotics I decided that my foot was better--no more orthotics for me. Big mistake! BIG! After wearing flats for several years with no arch supports the PF came back in a huge way. I had a cortisone injection given to me by my primary care physician and I promptly passed out from the pain--he didn't use the "freezing solution" first-just a local to numb the area. After that shot wore off I requested to be seen by an excellent podiatrist here in town--and refused any injections he had to offer. He knew that I had to have surgery but we had to do the PT thing first. PT made mine worse. It felt like I had knives stabbing me in my foot. After PT was over I was finally able to have the surgery. I dreaded it, but figured the pain was so severe without it, I would do better with it. February 22 was surgery day. The dr. had no idea what he would find. I had a bursa sac across the bottom of my foot growing up my ankle and the PF was twice the size of normal. He said there was a lot of scar tissue in that area and that he had never seen anything like what was wrong with my foot! Two days after surgery he put me in a cast for 3 weeks since there was so much wrong with my foot. When I went in to have the cast removed, he told me that while doing the pathology on the thick ligament they discovered a benign tumor actually inside the ligament-plantar fibromatosis. Due to the severity of my situation, he said that I would probably be in a cast up to 12 weeks. I'm now on my 7 1/2 weeks, but at least I have a removable cast and can finally shower again without having to double bag and rubberband the bag and keep my foot on the side of the shower. I still have to wear the huge removable cast to bed for a week and a half more. I have found that the bottom of my heel is still very numb but my dr. says he thinks that this will eventually go away. In my case, surgery was a necessity, and I may have to have more since this recurs frequently, especially if they don't remove all of the tumor. Since he didn't even know the tumor was there, my fears are even greater. But I'm not having to take two Vicodin every four hours to just be able to hobble to the bathroom--the Vicodin made the pain just bearable-- so I think I'm doing great. Am now occasionally taking Talacen for pain when I've been walking too much and my foot really starts to hurt. If you have to wear orthotics, wear them. I learned my lesson the hard way. If you need to "talk" feel free to e-mail me. I've been there--I'm still there.

After almost a year of pain in my left foot, anti-inflammatories, shots, taping, and PT I decided to have surgery (EPF). I am happy to say that I'm am 99% pain free. I just had EFP surgery on my right foot. I'm now 2 1/2 week post-op and it's feeling better and better each day. Each surgery was different. The first surgery I was in a cast and crutches with absoutley no weight for a week. The second surgery I'm in a boot till Thursday (3 weeks). I was really scared to have the surgery after reading everything, but I'm sure glad I went and had it done. I know what you're all going through so, good luck to everyone.

I had surgery in Jan of 92--pf release. I have read some of the notes posted and noted that many were complaining of continued pain. I was walking (carefully) in a week, went skiing in week 6, BUT had terrible pain in week 10 while on holiday in Europe (and walking alot). HOWEVER, over the next 3 months, the pain subsided and I have been pain free in that heel for 7 years! Now my other foot has started, and I have no hesitation about doing this again.

I had a plantar fascia release and tarsal tunnel decompression on March 30th. I have been off my foot ever since. I went to the doctor last week (my surgeon was called away for an emergency) and he told me to stay off of it another week and start to put weight on it next week while wearing a tennis shoe. Is this the type of recovery treatment most of you have obtained. I accidently put some weight on it the other night and had a pain right across the middle of my foot. I am so paranoid about this after reading all the messages posted about surgery. What about physical therapy?

Had Ossatron #2 yesterday. I am very encouraged!! My doctor said to stay away from heat. I am taking a week off work since they moved my switchboard position upstairs. I will get someone to drive me to do my exercises at the gym (swimming) a few times this week. Otherwise I am going to stay off my foot and away from driving. HOpe to catch up on my tan too. Blessings all and will try to keep you updated on results. Hope for the best and 100% healing so my life can be back to normal.

I had the full release done on Jan 20,99. I am told it is a 12 week recovery period, which I'm getting close to. I have been a little concerned over what I call a "plateau" in my improvement. The first 6-8 weeks had drama in as much as I could do a little more each day, walk more, bear more weight, etc. At this point I am still limping considerably in the AM and by evening or even midafternoon I am enduring pain and foot fatigue. The tingling and "nervy" feeling remain at and near the incision. The numbness in the heel itself remains. My surgeon says all these can take up to 3 years to resolve. My disability is up at the end of these 12 weeks and I will need to return to working. I am a little scared unless I start seeing a further improvement. I hope this isn't what I will be left with. I am curious as to whether anyone else here has had a problem with hip pain with the PF? It has been a terrible problem for me since the auto accident which created the PF. My gait is off thus causing the hip pain. Although it has improved alot since I threw the crutches aside (week 4), it continues to be a problem especially near the end of the day when I am fatigued. Well, continued success to all of you and again if anyone else has had the hip pain association, please let me know.

Well it is almost 4weeks since my EPF surgery. I am still in a cam walker but I have started PT, which felt great. The therapist is very pleased with the mobility and stretching that I am able to do. Before the surgery I was not able to stretch without pain and had very little mobility. They seem to think the pain I am feeling in my foot is do to the surgery itself and that once the immflamtion goes down I will feel alot better. My foot is taped now and still walking with cam walker and sleeping in nite splint which I feel really makes a difference. I can't stay off my foot that much because of the 3 kids so I try to ice and elevate as much as possible. I will keep you posted. Things are starting to look up!!!!

After four years of heel pain, three different podiatrists, many hours of personal research and about every possible form of treatment, I decided to have a PF release and a bunion corrected 4 1/2 weeks ago. I have to admit that I almost decided not to have the surgery performed after reading all of the "nightmares" described in the below postings. As an athletic 29 year old male, I figured that by not having the surgery I still would not be able to play sports and run like I used to when I was younger because of the pain that I was in. My progress follows: I was told by my podiatrist that I would be able to walk out of the medical center the day of my surgery without crutches. My advice is to bring crutches as you will have significant heel pain even though you are given pain killers. I did take a week off although my podiatrist stated that I could go back to work the next day. Trust me, take one week off!! During the first week, I had my foot elevated 24 hours a day in addition to icing three times a day. Elevation is critical during this first week as I found out that by not elevating the foot resulting in pain and a hot "swollen" feeling as though all of the blood rushes to the foot due to gravity. Elevation obviously aids in keeping the swelling down too. I was told that I would be able to walk gingerly during the first week. Well, I didn't attempt this and actually needed to use the crutches up until week three. I didn't see the need to force myself to walk with pain. I lived with pain for four years and made a decision to have surgery. Why would I want to damage the foot during the first week of recovery? I did return to work on week two and kept the foot elevated at work and when I returned to home. After week three, my podiatrist did stress that I should try to put weight on my foot to prevent scar tissue from forming. In other words, no matter how long you wait to start putting weight on your foot, it is going to hurt in the beginning. During week three, I figured that there would be no way that I would be back to performing all activities by week eight, but I've been making significant recovery each day. In week three, I went from two crutches to no crutches, but I still was wearing the shoe that was given the day of the surgery. I had a lot of pain during the third week when I started trying to walk. I began by trying to take a handful of steps one day, a few more the second day, etc.. Don't get discouraged if you have a lot of pain. You had severe trama to the one area in your body that takes on 100% of your body weight with every step! Now in week four, I am wearing sneakers and have been told that I will be back in dress shoes by week six. At this point in time, I am walking gingerly as there is still pain in the heel and big toe and I am experiencing a tingling numbness in the heel and ball-of-the-foot area. I can walk for about 30 minutes at a time before the pain starts to get really noticable. The podiatrist mentioned that each day the pain will gradually subside. I am scheduled to see the podiatrist in two weeks and will post my progress at that time. Remember that age and weight play a big factor in recovery. I am 6'2 195lbs. and have been told that an individual of my age and weight usually doesn't have heel or bunion pain. Figures... Please e-mail me with any questions if you are considering PF or bunion surgery. If you live in the Washington, D.C. area, I can recommend you to a very good podiatrist who was referred to me by podiatrists in my home town. I'd enjoy being given the opportunity to answer any questions as I thoroughly know the pain and frustration that this condition can bring!

After 18 months of increasing disability due to heel spur pain in my left foot I found a dr who agreed to operate. I had surgery in Dec. Recovery has been difficult. I spent 3.5 weeks in bed and another 4 weeks of very restricted activity using a walker. It has been 3.5 months now and I am able to walk without a walker or cane. I will begin therapy tomorrow. By the end of April I hope to be pain free. Although this has been hard I would make the same decision again. I am better off than before I had the surgery and I believe I will improve as time goes on.

I'm now 18 days post-op from a partial release on my left foot. I've been back in a regular shoe for 2 days. No more drugs, crutches or air casts. There is still some tightness and a little pain in the arch, but none in my heel. I'll return to work Monday (day after tomorrow) with no limitations from the doc. Still have a bit of a limp for now, but it will ease eventually. Surgery is a good thing!!!

Well it is 2 1/2 weeks since my 3/4 release and I am in a cam walker. The cam walker really does seem to be helping I wear it all day and sleep in a night splint at night. When I take the cam walker off before bed my foot feels really good. I can walk on it and there is really no pain. But if I sit for a few minutes and then get up I can not walk on it at all severe pain. Each day seems to be a little better and I am talking Voltaren to decrease the inflammtion. Cam walker makes it possible to walk around so I am not totally disabled. Keep you posted.

I have had PF since 1994 - now, thanks to surgery, I am totally disabeled. Picking the right surgeon is crutial!! I went thru 8 months of orthotics,physcial surgery,massage,injections - (buy the way - if you are going to a doctor that does not first spray this freezing spray-before injections) my advise would be to change doctors! Anyway, I went thru with the PF surgery- after 6 months, no relief. Then the surgeon did it again and cut totally across my enture heel - cutting things that should never have been cut. Anyway, needless to say - I finally chose another doctor - it is very important to check references before letting anyone cut. I am a walking testimony of what not to do. Now it is March, 1999, and I have had a total fo 6 heel surgeries and I am told there is no more they can do, so I barely get around with the use of my wheelchair - and on a good day my walker and or cane.

I have had PF since 1994 - now, thanks to surgery, I am totally disabeled. Picking the right surgeon is crutial!! I went thru 8 months of orthotics,physcial surgery,massage,injections - (buy the way - if you are going to a doctor that does not first spray this freezing spray-before injections) my advise would be to change doctors! Anyway, I went thru with the PF surgery- after 6 months, no relief. Then the surgeon did it again and cut totally across my enture heel - cutting things that should never have been cut. Anyway, needless to say - I finally chose another doctor - it is very important to check references before letting anyone cut. I am a walking testimony of what not to do. Now it is March, 1999, and I have had a total fo 6 heel surgeries and I am told there is no more they can do, so I barely get around with the use of my wheelchair - and on a good day my walker

Am now 13 days post-op from a partial release of the PF. Dr. put me in an "air cast" 3 day ago. I can bear some weight with the cast on and can now walk (actually - more of a hobble) without crutches. I still have some pain in the heel and significant tightness in my arch, especially when trying to stretch my foot. I also have intermittent numbness in the last two toes. Doc says that should all pass. Still hoping to return to work soon.

Hello there, It has been approx 18 months since my surgery in which the surgeon had to cut off half my plantar facia, as while removing a problemsome heel spur the plantar snapped off and retreated towards my toes. Rather drastic but after months of conservative treatment with no improvement the surgery has proved very successful. Unfortunately I'm presently experiencing similar symptoms with my other foot so back to square one. My main lament about this problem is the seemingly exhaustive process that must be tried before surgery is even considered. Not that I'm a knife happy type but if it is going to solve the problem, "Just do it" I had spent another 18 months prior trying to solve the problem, seek alternatives to the point of dispair. I'm sure by the time I had finally had surgery I was ready for some time in a padded cell because of the hurdles of so called professionals that said "Go home and have some babies, What is a woman doing climbing ladders for a living." ( I used to install Cable Tv and Telephony services here in Australia) I was very relieved to finally find a sympathetic ear and someone willing to assess my working life, make positve suggestions apart from give up work. (I'm afraid doing nothing doesn't pay the bills) But overall recommend someone who is highly profficient in their field. So all you sore footed "soles" who have reached the surgery hurdle, have faith that you will get better but you must take the time to heal youself, give yourself proper rest after the surgery. But most important, is to feel that your surgeon is the very best you can afford, is someone you can relay your fears and apprehensions to, and is someone looking after your best interest not the wellbeing of his surgery's bank balance. Pre operation preparedness is just as important as the post operative routine. Good luck to all in regaining a pain free lifestyle. Wendy

I have had PF for 5 years and have done everything and nothing has worked so far. I started seeing another doctor this past year for a second opinion, since the first doctor said there was nothing else to do and would not even consider surgery. After doing the shots, physical therapy, ultrasound, icing, stretching, foot taping, NSAIDS, he has finally agreed to do surgery. Then I found this board. Now I am terrified after reading so many horror stories and a FEW success stories. I, too, am hoping that the success stories just don't get posted as much, since people go on about their lives and forget to keep us informed. I am scheduled for surgery April 1st, what a hoot! April Fool's Day! I don't know what kind of release, I know it is the EPF, and tendon will be released (he said a small amount) on both sides of the heel (left foot only). He will not consider doing the other foot till about a year at least after the first surgery. He seems like a conscientious doctor, he wouldn't consider the surgery till we tried everything else. He is with Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Said they have a 95% success rate. I wonder, too, if some of the doctors of other posters didn't rush them to get back on their feet too soon. I have a sit-down job and he wants me to stay out at least two weeks, he prefers at least three, since I have a little walk from the parking lot each day. He has been very realistic with me, according to this board. He said it would be a SLOW process of healing. He said some people bounce right back, others may take 3-6 months, 9 months or maybe even a year. He has told me no walking for the first two months after surgery, I can do stationery bike though. Seems like he is really stressing to be careful with the foot afterward so it heals properly. Anyway, I'm going to try it, since I've tried everything else, and it is painful to even be on my feet for 1 minute. Cooking, dishwashing, trips to the grocery store have all become nightmares for me now. And shopping is IMPOSSIBLE. I don't shop now. But I want my old life back and if I have to wait a year to get it, I guess it will be worth it. I will come back and update when I see how it is going and when I'm able to drag myself to the computer! Thanks so much for this board! It's great to be able to talk to other people with the same problem. Talk to you later! Peggy

HI! I HAD PF SURGERY 11 WEEKS AGO. I SUFFERED WITH PF FOR 1 1/2 YEARS PRIOR TO SURGERY. I HAD 4 (VERRRRY PAINFUL) CORTISONE INJECTIONS, PHYSICAL THERAPY, IONTOPHERESIS, ORTHOTICS, ICE, HEEL CUPS, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY, NIGHT SPLINT. NOTHING WORKED. I WENT TO 3 PODIATRISTS, 2 ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS. THE LAST ORTHO DID SURGERY AND CUT UNDER MY HEELS SO HE COULD SEE BETTER. HERE IT IS ELEVEN WEEKS LATER, I HAVE NOT RETURNED TO WORK, AND MY FEET ARE IN SEVERE PAIN. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO! THE DOCTOR NOW SAYS IT IS PROBABLY SCAR TISSUE CAUSING THE PAIN. I HAVE BEEN RELIGIOUSLY DOING MY STRETCHING AND EXERCISING. I HAVE DONE EVERYTHING THE DOCTOR SAID. I AM SO AFRAID IT WON'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS. I CANNOT TOLERATE ANY WALKING LIKE GOING TO THE GROCERY STORE, MALL, ETC. I HAVE TO GO IN A WHEEL CHAIR. IT HURTS SEVERELY WHEN I STAND FOR ANY PERIOD OF TIME. FOR EXAMPLE, I CANNOT STAND LONG ENOUGH TO APPLY MY MAKEUP. SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME IF THEY HAD THIS PROBLEM AND IF TIME WAS THE ANSWER. I CAN CONTINUE WAITING IF I KNEW THAT IT WILL EVENTUALLY GET BETTER. BY THE WAY, I HAD THE SURGERY ON BOTH FEET. SOMEONE PLEASE RESPOND--EITHER A DOCTOR OR PF PATIENTS! THANKS!

Am now 7 days post-op from a partial release on my left foot. I'm experiencing some pain at the incision site and even more in my arch, but both are manageable. I'm able to bear some weight on the ball of my foot, which makes the crutches easier to use. Stitches will come out in three days. Hope to return to work after that. Any comments on what the normal time to return to work is? I know it depends on the type of job, but I'm curious as to how others have fared.

Hi everyone. I have been posting since Dec. when I had both feet done (3/4 plantar facia release). I am happy to report that today I took my dogs walking to the park and was 100% pain free. Not even a little bit of pain! 100% recovered. I am a new gal, and even getting some of the post op weight off! Happy Spring to all. If you need encouragement, e-mail me! I'll share my great POSITIVE experience.

Had a 3/4 release on Monday and was on crutches with surgical shoe for 3 days. Went to a cain as per Dr. and told to weight bear as much as I could take. Well today is post-op day 5 and my heel and arch are killing me. Living on pain killers and terrible muscle cramp in calf. Walking is sooooo very painful. I see the Dr. on Monday to have the stitches taken out. Has anyone else had this happen to them? Please let me know the burning and pain is terrible.

After reading many of the postings here I was leary to have surgery, but went ahead with it as a last resort (I wanted my old lifestyle back). I am pleased to say that I had a partial release 6 weeks ago and am feeling great. I am still not up to an aerobics class or swing dancing, but my foot has not felt this good since the pain started a year and a half ago. I was off my feet for two weeks (on crutches) and then went to a cane for a week. I have been wearing shoes without orthotics for several days now and all feels wonderful. I can not believe that I waited so long to have surgery.

I am Post-Op 3 days and went to the Dr. today. Swelling is down and healing nicely. Dr. wants me to walk with cain no more crutches and try to weight bear as much as possible. Keep ice and elevation as much as possble too. Sleeping in night splint and taking advil for pain. Stitches come out on Monday and Dr. told me to bring my sneaker to wear home. I have some pain when I step down but I think this is expected. I will keep you all posted wish me luck.

I just underwent a partial release this morning (10 hours ago). Talk about an EASY surgery. I talked and joked with the anesthesiologist and the D.P.M who performed the surgery as I watched the procedure on a television monitor. The docs both know I work in IS, so we spent most of the time discussing the merits of HP scanners and CDR/CD-RWs. Post-op recovery consisted of sipping on a Mt. Dew for about an hour or so. Lots of numbness, but absolutely no pain. Left the outpatient clinic and went to eat at Cracker Barrel. As of right now, there is a little pain, but nothing a couple of Darvocets didn't handle. The biggest problem is navigating with those @$#@)% crutches. Time will tell how my recovery will progress, but the surgery and immediate post-op were a piece of cake. It's too soon to recommend the whole procedure, but I am encouraged by the simplicity so far.

Well even after reading all the letters on this page I still had the EPF surgery on Monday. So far I am walking with crutches no cast and minimal pain. I sleep with the night splint which seems to help and ice and elevation as much as possible. I have 3 small children and already and the old conventional surgery on my other foot 4 years ago with much success. Only thing was the recovery time of a cast, cam walker and PT. I will keep you posted on my recovery. Wish me luck. Denise

HELP!! I'm 7 weeks post-op. Was up and on crutches for only 3 days post op, with surgical shoe. Off crutches on 4th day (per dr's instructions). From day one (post-op), most of my foot has remained numb, with terrible tingling/burning. The lateral side and bottom of arch are totally numb, painful arch, bottom of foot feels like my sock is bunched up inside my shoe. Has anyone else had this? Nerve conduction tests show no entrapment. No stress fractures. I do have a MRI scheduled for tomorrow. Numbness is spreading from baby toe down to heel, laterally, and across the arch. Incision is healing well, little numbness there also. Have applied anti-bacterial cream to incision, massaging the area in small circles to prevent adhesions. My ankle is now starting to ache, and there is a terrible vice-grip like pain laterally, midway down the foot. Sometimes my foot feels like a band is being tightened around it just past (closer to arch) the ball of my foot. Does anyone else know about this feeling? Any suggestions?

Hi all. Just an update. I am 9 weeks post op and hiked and climbed around at the Grand Canyon this weekend and spen 2 hours rollerblading. I have never felt so great on my feet. I had the 3/4 plantar Facia release and have my life back again. I am able to do everything I could do before the injury and had both feet done at once. For me this surgery was a God-send. Good luck to all, if you need encouragement, e-mail me and I will give it to you!! This is the best decision I ever made for my health!! Happy feet to all! Sandy

I would like to share parts of an article written in the february, 1999 issue of the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. It was co-authored by Paul A. Stone, D.P.M., one the pioneers of this procedure. The title of the article is Retrospective Review of Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy, 1994 Through 1997. In it he compared the results to a similar study from 1992 through 1994. In the new study he used 5 modifications of the EPF originally presented by Barret and Day. Most notably he only releases 50% of the plantar fascia and he uses a short leg walking cast for 4 to 6 weeks post-op. The mean duration of heel pain in the patients in the new study prior to surgery was 51.88 months. This is more evidence that exhaustive conservative theray must be tried before considering surgery. I think this web page eloquently describes appropriate conservative therapy. The second interesting point was mean time for pain to resolve after surgery was108.2 days and mean time to return to normal activities was 94.5 days. This is a clear indication that the EPF is not the "miracle" that it once was thought to be. Originally, Barret and Day advocated return to normal activities in three days. Finally, The patients in the study were asked if they would recommend the procedure to others. 92% answered YES. Would you undergo the procedure again? 84% answered yes. So in conclusion, if you have chronic plantar fascitis try exhaustive conservitive therapy first for even up to 4 years. If you are considering surgery, the endoscopic plantar fasciotomy is the way to go. Use a cast post-op and be patient, the pain will go away.

Hi all; I had full release surgery on February 5th on my right foot and the incision is about 2 - 2 1/2 inches long on the inside of the foot. I don't consider myself a wimp but it was quite painful when I awoke from the surgery. Of course, it didn't help that the nurses forgot to elevate my leg so my foot was lying on the bed! The gave me Morphine and Demorol but they just made me sleepy. It's funny when you are tired and can't fall asleep because the nurses are so noisy!!! My Doctor removed my staples at about a week and a half after surgery and about 2 hours later my incision popped open in the middle. I have an infection in it now so it is delaying the healing process a bit! The Dr. recommended soaking my foot in Epsom salts then using Polysporin cream and cover it with a bandaid. It seems to be working quite well as I have noticed the difference in healing in the 2 days that I have been using it! I've been told that I could be walking on it a bit soon, but the only advise my Doctor gave me was to use my own judgement. I guess I'm wanting to rush things a bit but I'm off work without pay and the bills don't stop! My foot gets pretty stiff when I'm off of it for a while so it takes some stretching to get walking properly again. I'm getting tired of using pain medication but it is keeping me mobile later in the day. The only bad thing about this medication is that it has caffine in it so I feel like cleaning everything in sight but my foot keeps slowing me down. Oh well, can't have it all, I guess! :-) I've been able to do some longer walking such as at the mall for an hour or so. It gets pretty sore but I think keeping moving is a good idea so the muscles don't get too stiff. I've been asked if having the surgery is worthwhile - I can't say just yet but the healing process has been quicker that I expected, fo me anyway! Take care all - and take care of those sore, sore feet!!! Nancy

My 53 year old husband, retired law enforcement after 32 years is crippled by PF. He has been faithfully stretching, icing for more than a year with no beneficial effects. My husband is in good physical condition and not overweight. Retirement sucks because he can't walk. We are even thinking of buying a wheelchair as he can't tolerate walking for more than 10 to 20 minutes. After reading all the surgery posts, our question is, who is doing the surgeries? DPM or Orthpedic Surgeons? Does anyone have any recommendations for a doctor in the Southwest Colorado area.

An exchange of emails some of you might be interested in. "Paul, Semi-rigid full foot orthotics with 2mm suborthelene heel pad and the same under both of big toes which are getting arthritic. Made by Mike Forgraves-519-741-0991. The Asics are very stiff. I don't know too much about the Nikes but I've found that I've haven't had any luck with any other brand I've tried. They don't seem to have the stability. Regards, Martin -----Original Message----- From: Paul R. Kleinginna To: mjdixon@millards.com Date: Thursday, February 25, 1999 9:04 AM Subject: orthodics >        Martin,   I am intersted in knowning more about your orthodics. Are >they hard or soft, stiff or flexible?   Can you post or e-mail the maker? >What can you tell me about Asic shoes and stiffness?  I currently wear Nike >sneakers with custom make othodics (have cork and rubber heel) and have a >rubber pad under the orthodics for extra cushion.  Do you think the Nikes >bend too much?  I heard on television about a basketball player whose >othodics did not fit. > >Thanks,  Paul

A couple of points further to yesterday's post. These are just my experiences. Who knows if they would help for anybody else or if they are even helping me. 1. Birkenstock sandals-never barefeet-very important. 2. Custom made orthotics in all shoes-very important. 3. An orthotics person who just makes orthotics full-time. I went to podiatrists, chiropractors and store bought orthotics and had no success until I went to a guy who was in the business full-time and as a bonus he's an ex Pan Am games hurdler who understands runners and their problems. In a perfect world, you want an orthotics person like that. I've sent a lot of people to him, runners and even basketball players, for a variety of ailments and they are all getting significant relief. I can post his name and number if anyone is interested. 4. Ibruprofen daliy. 5. A stiff shoe-I've been going up the Asics ladder-110's which are now 140's. 6. Keep moving during the day if you have a desk job. 7. I tried the night sock and it didn't help. 8. I never stretch or ice but probably should.

I haven't had surgery but I ruptured my right fascia which basically amounts to the same thing. This post is for any runners out there who are about to have surgery or have had it recently. A bit of background. I took up running on Feb. 1, 1982 at age 24 in order to lose some of my 205 pounds. The weight came off very quickly and my running also improved very quickly. I ran a 2:45 at the Toronto marathon that fall and got my 10km under 34:00 a little later. Over the next two years I ran a 2:25 at New York and Buffalo. Because of the ever increasing workload, my hamstring popped in Feb of 1985 which basically put me out of commission until 1991 other than light running. I decided to get back into it late in 1991, called my coach again and quickly was back in business, pbing at 10km-30:59, 5km-15:21, and 5 miles-25:00. I had never worked on speed earlier and my coach had me doing a lot of hills and very fast speed work. I started having trouble with my fascia in both feet after about a year. This necessitaed about a 3 month layoff on an annual basis. The pain would go away but it would always come back. I got orthotics in 1994 and that really seemed to help but I stopped wearing them in the spring of 1998 in my dress shoes and the pain started to creep back. In April I ruptured the right fascia with a mile to go in a 10km. I could put no weight on the foot for 2 weeks. I naively thought it was just a pull and tried to come back with some new orthotics after 3 months- big mistake. I got confirmation that it was ruptured and went to this site and determined that I would have to take 6 months off. I took another 3 months off which gave me 6 months total rest. I also got ultrasound 5-6 times a week and a weekly massage. It started to feel real good after 2 months but I resisted running for another month-Nov 23. It has now been three months and there is no pain-my mileage is between 70 and 80 miles a week with three hard workouts a week. I have cut out hill repeats completely because in retrospect I think that they were the source of my problem but I fully intend to get on the track again. I'm in the best shape I've been in since 1993 when I ran a 71:00 half. I've got a ways to go but I did a 6x5:00 series of bursts with 2:00 rest last week and my time for the 10 miles was 60:45 so I'm encouraged. Bottom line, in my lay opinion, if you rupture your fascia or have surgery-6 months off completely, ultrasound as frequently as possible, periodic massage, orthotics and stay off the hills.

Dear Sandy, I am glad you are doing so well. I am afraid of getting the wrong doctor. Can you recommend your doctor. I would really appreciate it. I live in Georgia, but might travel to the doctor. Thanks, Paul

Help! Has anyone had experience with or surgery for a partial tear of the Abductor hallicus muscle? It started out as a heel spur which I received several injections of cortisone for. I believe this may have weakened the plantar fascia and surrounding tisssue(mentioned muscle). But anyway, now 8 months later, an MRI has revealed the tear. My doctor (it has taken 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic to detect it) is even unsure of the right approach to take. I am a Physical Therapist so treat this daily with little success. I need my foot again to perform my active job and active lifestyle painfree if possible. My doctor has suggested a release of the origin of the muscle (probable similar to a release of the plantar fascia, but more involved). Does anyone have any input or addresses of doctors that may be helpful?

Help! Has anyone had experience with or surgery for a partial tear of the Abductor hallicus muscle? It started out as a heel spur which I received several injections of cortisone for. I believe this may have weakened the plantar fascia and surrounding tisssue(mentioned muscle). But anyway, now 8 months later, an MRI has revealed the tear. My doctor (it has taken 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic to detect it) is even unsure of the right approach to take. I am a Physical Therapist so treat this daily with little success. I need my foot again to perform my active job and active lifestyle painfree if possible. My doctor has suggested a release of the origin of the muscle (probable similar to a release of the plantar fascia, but more involved). Does anyone have any input or addresses of doctors that may be helpful?

Help! Has anyone had experience with or surgery for a partial tear of the Abductor hallicus muscle? It started out as a heel spur which I received several injections of cortisone for. I believe this may have weakened the plantar fascia and surrounding tisssue(mentioned muscle). But anyway, now 8 months later, an MRI has revealed the tear. My doctor (it has taken 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic to detect it) is even unsure of the right approach to take. I am a Physical Therapist so treat this daily with little success. I need my foot again to perform my active job and active lifestyle painfree if possible. My doctor has suggested a release of the origin of the muscle (probable similar to a release of the plantar fascia, but more involved). Does anyone have any input or addresses of doctors that may be helpful?

Help! Has anyone had experience with or surgery for a partial tear of the Abductor hallicus muscle? It started out as a heel spur which I received several injections of cortisone for. I believe this may have weakened the plantar fascia and surrounding tisssue(mentioned muscle). But anyway, now 8 months later, an MRI has revealed the tear. My doctor (it has taken 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic to de

Help! Has anyone had experience with or surgery for a partial tear of the Abductor hallicus muscle? It started out as a heel spur which I received several injections of cortisone for. I believe this may have weakened the plantar fascia and surrounding tisssue(mentioned muscle). But anyway, now 8 months later, an MRI has revealed the tear. My doctor (it has taken 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic to detect it) is even unsure of the right approach to take. I am a Physical Therapist so treat this daily with little success. I need my foot again to perform my active job and active lifestyle painfree if possible. My doctor has suggested a release of the origin of the muscle (probable similar to a release of the plantar fascia, but more involved). Does anyone have any input or addresses of doctors that may be helpful?

I am so happy that I had the pf release!! My feet are completely back to normal after 6 weeks. I can now walk up to 2 miles and am on my feet all day doing whatever I want. Today I went to aerobics and had NO PAIN!! While in Mexico, I walked everyday (not on the beach however) and even though it hurt the first several days, the more I walked and pushed through, the better I would feel the next day! I can even take stairs with one foot per stair--which I am grateful for as I have two staircases in my house! I hope anyone reading this has the same great success as I have had. There are some very scarry posts but I have been very lucky!

Bandages removed last Friday and the incision is like 3 inches long! I had no idea.it looked terible to me but the doc says it looks good (hate to see what bad looks like). Anyway, over the last couple days there has beena dramatic decrease inthe swelling..doc removed the tight hospital bandages and lighly wrapped in gauze and surgical sock so i think that accounts for some of the progress there. But also the pain has decreased considerably. I even have put my foot down, while not bearing any weight and it was just fine. i am now ever more hopeful that this was a good idea, as i was a little scared the first week. Keep the faith, God Bless.

hi all.i just stumbled across this messsage board and am happy i did. although some of the negative results are intimidating i must say. anyway i am 1 week post op, old style surgery. its funny (not haha) but there was less pain the first 2 days than now. it actually has gradually increased, and is more of a burning and stinging sensation now. i also have throbbing and tingling and swelling and numbness. i am able to keep the swelling somewhat at bay thru elevation though the minute i get up to do something on crutches it swells and turns bluish pruple. the dr prescribed vicadin (sp?) for the pain and it works but the side effects are alot of nausea and sleeping, so he had represcribed today codeine tylenol. i am trying to remain hopeful that this will be a success. i have had the pf from a compression injury in an auto accident (heel was forced against the edge of my high heel shoe) and no conservative treatment helped including $400 orthos. the pf caused my gait to be off which compounded my already injured back and hip on the left side as well. the dr.'s are hoping that once i recover from pf surgery that the back and hip will be able to heal and quit beign thrown out of allignment. i am advised to use the crutches for 3-4 weeks no weight bearing and then partial weight bearing after that with a total of 12 week recovery. i guess in this hurry up world today it might seem unreal that someone could endure this kind of recovery time and it is hard already but if thats what it takes to avoid problems from rushing it then im all for it. Perhaps the scar tissue issue is a result of rushing the weight bearing? i dont know. i am alittle stir crazy but thank god for the laptop lol. I'll update here on my progress for those interested in knowing what they can maybe expect after surgery. By the way i get the bandage off tommorow for my first look at the incision, am curious as to how long it is and such (vanity sets in, lol) Keep the faith and god bless us all.

I am now eight weeks post-op. I had the "open" - more radical plantar fascia release on my right foot. At four weeks post-op, I hung up my crutches and began to walk - though limited the amount of time on my feet. After reading all of the horror stories in these postings, I admit, I was skeptical about the surgery working - but I had tried all the other treatments with no success. Surgery was my last option. I am happy to report that I am happy with the results so far. I am now at a point where I have begun to resume "normal activities" - but at a gradual pace. The one thing that I think has helped me the most, is religiously doing the foot strengthening exercises. I had found that after four weeks on crutches, the muscles in my foot and ankle were extremely weak. As I gradually add more walking each day, AND the exercises, I see subtle improvements almost daily. The trick, I have found, is to push myself - at the same time not over-do it. If I over-do it one day, I'll know the next day and will take it easier. I can now walk up to 2 miles. I do not consider my foot to be back to normal yet, as it still feels "tight" and a bit weak. When I walk, my right foot feels "different" but it's not pain, and certainly nothing like before the surgery. At this point in time, I think it is still a bit early to label my surgery a "success". I think that it will take many months to make that call. I can only say that even if I didn't improve any further, it's still better than before the surgery.

My weekly update. My feet are still doing just fine l month post op. I have a slight cramping pain on the outside of my left foot, I do believe that this is compensating for the expected pain when I walk. I tried a little speed walking tonight down a long corridor and actually could feel the pain work through if I concentrated on pronating in. I am looking forward to a trip to Mexico this week with light hiking and lots of walking on the beach. This will be the test. I'm very glad I had this surgery on both feet and feel 100% better than I did a month ago at this time. Everyone has different results, for me this was a God send. Good Luck to all who consider it. You can e-mail me if i can answer any questions for you about my particular surgery, I have posts from the beginning of January to this present time. Do your homework...shoes, activities, job type, etc. all have a bearing on the success.

dear,denny i feel for you but reading your messages i am becoming very scared. i had a plantar fasciotomy on left foot in may 1998 i am currently a letter carrier of 16yrs in postal service. i was out of work for 4 months. went back in aug1998 and in sept was in cam boot having pain in side of foot and ankle, started therapy and have been going still as of jan1999. i stand on my foot 4hrs a day on cement floors and my feet burn. last week my therapist found a new lump near the incision were fascia was released and spurs removed. i am now experiencing numbness in calf and also up neartop of leg. therapist says its nerve damage and started me on pens unit. i see docter every 5 weeks and he gives me no answers, i am looking to get second opinion.my pain at night is worse than before and pain during day is more constant. doctor says i am walking wrong but i do not see it. anyone looking to get surgery think twice. ps i will never let them touch my right foot

Oh man Jim, do I feel for you. I know what you are talking about with the lump. I think it is crucial to aggressively massage the incision and surgery area immediately following surgery to eliminate the scar tissue and I think this si something new within the last several years. I hope you are able to find some relief somehow...it was a little deflating to read your post as I am doing great at nearly 3 weeks after surgery. It is a step by step concentration to step heel ball toe and stretch my inner foot as well as concentrate on keeping all five toes on the ground as I take the step. I am a past ballet dancer and have been doing a lot of the dance excercises to help strengthen my foot. It feels great and is seeming to help to. I wish you good luck. I am so sorry to hear you still suffer.

Jim, I tried to email you and your address came back unknown. I am wondering about the lump. Could you email me? thanks SUzy lvneyes@aol.com

Well, it has been about 5 months since I last posted. Time for an update: My new (last spring) orthotics helped and got me through the summer and fall. But this massive lump of scar tissue at the site of my plantar fasciotomy, extends laterally into the fleshy, center part of the foot only continues to enlarge. It has become a fibrous lump of scarified tissue that while concentrated at the surgical site, runs in a vertical direction as well, toward the toes and down toward the heel. Some of you have read my 1997 and 1998 posts know that I had my plantar fasciotomy back in 1988 and for the first few years, had very little scar tissue accretion at the surgical site. At that time, I regarded my PF surgery as a somewhat qualified success. For those of you who are contemplating not only the short-term but the possible long-term consequences of a plantar fasciotomy , the issue of scar tissue is a very serious one. The scar tissue problem becomes more acute with each passing year. This comes along with the shortening of the arch and together, causes significant dysfunction to your foot, particularly in walking. Your gait is permanently altered, forcing a lot of what should be longitudinal pressure (in good quality heel-toe stepping out) into a lateral direction, so that the side of your foot hurts all the time. It severely stresses the side of the foot as your foot tries to compensate for a shortened arch. I am still deliberating what sort of treatment modality might help me. Indeed, in addition to the orthotics and stretching exercises, I have seen several different orthopedic surgeons who have highly cautioned me that another surgery could guarantee nothing and could cause even more trouble. The problem is not going to go away. And my 1998 orthotics, which had bought me some time, no longer seem to be able to cope with the massive amount of scar tissue andthe permanently shortened arch.

I am at 12 days post op and am on my feet, limping a bit but feel much better than before the surgery. I had both feet done at the same time. I am curious...has anyone else experienced the heel pain, similiar to being hit on the heel with a hammer, and how long didit last? That has been the worse pain so far, but I am optimistic that this will go away with time. I feel fairly back to normal as long as I don't stand idle for more than a minute or so. (Like in the grocery store line.)

I have battled with heel spurs since 92. Then cortisone worked for me. My latest battle with pf has been more difficult. I had surgery Oct. 24,1998 and my feet feel worse than they ever did. I am now going into my forth week of being back to work and each day is agony. My right foot seems to be the worst of the two, I have a severe burning sensation that is just about unbearable. I really would not recommend this surgery.

I had bilateral pf surgery Oct. 24, 1998 and I am still in excruciating pain within a few hours of standing and walking. I was off work for eight weeks, three weeks on crutches. I have been to pt, icing,etc. nothing seems to make it better, as a matter of fact my feet are worse, at this

I had bilateral pf surgery Oct. 24, 1998 and I am still in excruciating pain within a few hours of standing and walking. I was off work for eight weeks, three weeks on crutches. I have been to pt, icing,etc. nothing seems to make it better, as a matter of fact my feet are worse, at this

I had bilateral pf surgery Oct. 24, 1998 and I am still in excruciating pain within a few hours of standing and walking. I was off work for eight weeks, three weeks on crutches. I have been to pt, icing,etc. nothing seems to make it better, as a matter of fact my feet are worse, at this

Well, now in addition to endoscopic surgery (EPF) and open surgery a third alternative has been suggested to me: percuaneous plantar fasciotomy. This apparently is a relatively new procedure and requires only a 1/8th inch surgical opening made on the instep of the inner heel. The procedure is typically in-office and requires only local anesthesia. What little I've been able to find on this procedure seems encouraging: 85% success rate with quite limited downside. If anyone has any knowledge concerning this procedure I'd sure like to hear from you.

After reading so many of the posts, I was very concerened that I had made a terrible mistake but am now feeling better about it as my feet already are feeling a bit better. I had a 3/4 pf release on Dec. 29, 1998. I opted to do both feet as I have a family and cannot afford too much time away from the activities of life. I have extremely high arches and very tight pf that could be seen through my skin. I have been plaqued with the problem for 4 years and have done everything I could. Cortizone,Electronic stimulation, ultrasound, hard massage, orthodics, cusions, steel shanked boots that I wore for 6 months with orthodics, chiropracty, aggressive ice treatments, you name it, I did it. Several weeks ago I told my Dr. to either release or I would with a razor blade! Many of you know how drastic you can feel! I now feel tightness in the arches and around the small toe on my left foot but ice 3 times and day and work on stretching on my calves while lying in my bed. I will visit the Dr. tomorrow and will get my one stitch out on each foot. I am anxious to recover as I would like to ski before the end of our Utah season and start back to my rollerblading and walking 6 mi. a day. I'll report back in a week or so and let you know how I am doing.

I am now 4 weeks post op. and as I mentioned on my initial posting, had the "open" or more radical plantar fasciotomy.  I did not have a "complete" release - although I am not sure of the percentage released.  My doctor felt that a complete release would make the foot unstable. Since I am able to work from home on occasion, I stayed at home and off my feet for the first week.  I went to the office a week after the surgery, but using crutches and absolutely no weight on the foot.  While at work, I kept my foot elevated much of the time (since I am mostly in front of a computer - I could do that).  Also, at this point I iced the foot two to three times a day. One thing that I found important is to simply listen to what your body (or foot in this case) is telling you.  In the first couple of weeks, if I was up walking on the crutches for too long, my foot began to throb - telling me "that's enough".  As soon as I sat down and elevated the foot again, it was fine.  So I just did what it told me to do.  I was also concerned about the stitches.  It seemed like they were slow to heal.  I had the stitches out after 15 days and it seems to have done well with that time frame. At week three, I began to gradually add weight to the surgery foot.  I found that my foot was very stiff and tight.  My doctor encouraged me to move it around as much as I could.  One exercise I found very helpful is to "write the alphabet" with my foot.  This loosened things up and helped in accepting more weight. It has now been 4 weeks since the surgery and I just put the crutches in the closet.  Though I am still limping, it is more due to "tightness" rather than pain.  I found that my foot has gotten a bit lazy and I tend to walk on the outside of it - however, I try to concentrate when walking to keep it straight.  I am not walking long distances - as again - I am listening and it tells me when to rest.  I can honestly say that now I can see improvement daily.  I am looking forward to the next few weeks to see if this improvement continues.  I hope it does.........it takes patience for sure. So far I am very optimistic. I found this to be a pretty painless surgery. The toughest part is psychology dealing with not being able to walk for a few weeks and limiting activities. -Michele

Most of October, November, and December posts were lost due to a goof Scott made.

I saw Dr. Stephen Barrett in Spring, TX yesterday re EPF; really liked him. Very professional and competent. I am going back to have the EPF on my right foot next Wed. the 14th. He says that lateral column pain syndrome is a problem that may occur after the surgery, usually about 3% of the cases. In my type of foot (hypermobile rather than rigid ), the risk is 10%. Therefore, I have to wear the boot for 6 weeks, and stay off my foot as much as possible for that time. After 8 weeks, I can go back and get the left foot done. Please pray for me - I will let you all know the outcome!

Name: kay Email: Time: Friday, September 25, 1998 at 20:59:14 Comments: I have enjoyed reading all the letters. My surgery is scheduled for Dec 8th, however, I may reconsider after reading so many bad results. My doctor is conservative and would prefer I wait at least 2 years,wearing my orthotics, before doing surgery. He does surgery as a last resort. He has warned me the healing process is extremely painful and lengthy...(6 months). He did say, however, that he lets his patients tell him when they need surgery as everyones level of pain is different. I have done it all as well....the cortisone shots(3),icing,and the expensive othotics ($270-)! I've also purchased the Mephisto shoes which are divine...but very pricey....it's funny how deperate we get for RELIEF!! It isn't getting any better and I HATE putting my life on hold,which is what it feels like. I can't walk like I love to do (the power walking). I am overweight and walking will help me lose this extra lbs. I plan to do more research and like I said may have to reconsider surgery. I really do want this pain to GO AWAY!! Later

Name: Dr. Fred George Email: Time: Monday, September 21, 1998 at 22:28:43 Comments: This is an excellent forum for the common, sometimes intractable problem of foot pain. In looking at the articles and comments, there seems to be a focus on either "shotgun" conservative therapy (no underlying functional theory of disease), or EPF (an overly narrow theory of disease). EPF is currently popular because it is technically simple and is taught in a weekend course. However it relies solely on the plantar fascia traction/avulsion theory of heel pain. This is too narrow. There is an old saying, "When you have a hammer, the problem looks like a nail."

Name: Peg Email: Time: Monday, September 28, 1998 at 13:51:47 Comments: I had PFsurgery by the knife. Jan. rt. foot, then March the other one. It has not helped in any way in fact the pain is worse and I am depressed the surgery was a failer. I am still doing therpy. Ultrasound and massages {hubby is great}. I excercise sitting down and treadmill 15 minutes a day. I still have a alot of scar tissue on both feet. It is getting softer around the outside. I can not stand very long in one place or walk a long distance. I still use my wheelechair to go to the mall. I have tried the shoes suggested by the guestbook entries. Burk and SAS sandles help. There are other areas of the foot that didn't hurt before. Ankles are weak and laterial side of feet ache. The arches and heels ache even off my feet. The Dr. has not answers for the problem. Hesaid, maybe that it is a mental thing and I should see a phyotherapist and why would any one would want to be off work this long. HE JUST DON'T GET IT. I worked 12 hr. shifts and most of t! he time on your feet. Well, it went, its not in my head. He has a problem. He can't comprehend the surgery didn't work and he can not deal with it. I am looking for a new Doc.. I also had to file for SSD requested by my work insurance. Has any one been on SSD for this problem? I am on long term disability at work. Are you people working that can't walk? PLEASE HELP IN ANY WAY.

Name: Sue Email: Time: Saturday, September 26, 1998 at 02:13:51 Comments: I had my surg. 9-18-98 and with minimal pain. I was told not to bear wt on my foot for 7-10 days. I am wearing a post-op boot and tried bearing some wt. tonight and it was with little discomfort. I only have a couple of sutures on the inside of my ankle almost to the bottom of my foot. I just have a tiny bandage over it to protect the sutures. they will be removed Friday and I willhave the other done in Oct.

Name: Kim Email: Time: Wednesday, September 2, 1998 at 20:11:01 Comments: Update...today I got my sutures out of the foot that I had surgery on last Thursday. My feet are somewhat tender but I was able to do a little shopping today with terrible pain so I feel that my surgeries have done well so far. My doctor feels that the less you disturb the foot with surgery, incisions, etc, the better results you have. I have to agree with him so far. I am anxious to see if this will last months, or years. I will keep writing occasionally to let you know.

Name: JP Laumeyer Email: Time: Tuesday, September 15, 1998 at 18:33:36 Comments: This is my third summary of my post surgery experience. My first surgery in Nov. 97 was an EPF on my left foot (first foot), and my second surgery in Jan. 98 was an EPF on my right foot (second foot). All along my second foot has been far better than my first foot. My post operative experience for the past 6 months or so has been a series of ups and downs. For pain relief in the past year or so, I have been taking Naproxen. Around April, my feet stopped making progress, so I went to my podiatrist who gave me another cortisone shot in my first foot. When this didn't help any, he prescribed Methsopredsolone? (steroid). Though my feet felt better for the week, this was no long term fix. Next, in May, he prescribed some physical therapy. My physical therapist administered deep heating via ultrasound and myofascial release. The effects of the ultrasound were so so; however, the myofascial release (massage) helped right away. It still recall that when my physical therapist released a certain tight spot, I felt relief immediately. I even remember her saying there it is! When she released the tissue, I thought I was going to die. However, from that first massage, I could walk with less pain. I couldn't believe how much it helped. I have been in physical therapy since May with very good results. Matter of fact, I no longer believe that a radical plantar fasciotomy will be necessary. Also, in July, I took a trip to Europe, and as one might imagine, I did a lot of walking. Though it was painful, my podiatrist and physical therapist thinks this really helped me turn the corner in my recovery. More recently, I began to use a night splint. We'll see if it helps any. Overall, my first foot is about 80%, and my second foot is about 90%. My advice for a speedy recovery is myofascial release, walking, and physical therapy.

Name: Beth Email: Time: Wednesday, September 30, 1998 at 16:56:45 Comments: Hi, time for another update. It has been just short of a year since my conventional PF surgery (3-in. cut). The dr. removed the heel spur and, thereby, also released the PF just in the small area where it was connected to the spur. In the past I've written several posts saying I'm not sure if the surgery was a success. Well, I'm here to say I'm sure now that it was a success! It took a REALLY long time to heal. At 6 mo. I still had aching if I stayed on the foot too long. Gradually, between 7 and 11 mo. post-op, the aching has gone away. I've done three 6-mile hikes to test the foot in the last month, and after each one, I've had NO problem, no pain! The catch is, I don't have pain as long as I don't walk barefoot and I always wear a Birkenstock insert, orthotic, or Birkenstock sandal. And if I push on the bottom of the heel, I feel pain. But I can live with that catch, because with the proper footwear, I can walk all I want! It wasn't like that before the surgery. S! o I am very happy with the surgery! By the way, I've had two doctors tell me that they think EPF is a very, very bad idea, for two reasons: you can't see the whole picture inside the foot that way (entrapped nerves or whatever), and a complete release of the PF (which some people use EPF to accomplish) is a terribly risky thing to do. Makes sense to me to do the conventional surgery. Thanks to everyone, and an apology to those whose private messages to me about PF I haven't answered lately -- been too busy to answer. Good luck, and don't conclude too soon that your surgery was not a succcess -- maybe it'll take a year. Keep on stretching!

Name: Vivienne Email: Time: Tuesday, October 6, 1998 at 11:29:44 Comments: Dear Dr Webfoot - delighted to find your reply to my query. The spur I had removed was (just) right of midline at the back of my heel (by which I mean just below where you get a blister on your heel if you wear tight new shoes!) and it is here that I have the bony lump. The spur was apparently jeapordising the Achillies tendon which had grown a cyst on it, presumably caused by the spur. The cyst was also removed during surgery. The lump starts about 1/2" to 3/4" up from the sole of the foot and extends up about 1" in an irregular shape and is immediately underneath where the horizontal scar from the surgery is. It is not overly wide and immediately to the right of the lump there is almost a 'hollow' where the lump ends. Love to hear your reply - thank you.

ame: Vicky Email: Time: Saturday, September 19, 1998 at 23:28:33 Comments: Hi, This is an update to my last entry. I am on my third week post surgery. I have walked around the house without my crutches and I pay for it in the evening time. It still hurts. My doctor said I should use my crutches for two more weeks. So far the pain only feels about half of what it was. I pray that it will get better, but I guess having it feel half as bad as it did it better than it not working at all. Good luck to all of you.

Name: Vicky Email: Time: Sunday, September 6, 1998 at 16:26:35 Comments: I had the regular surgery on September 1st. I have had almost no pain. It sure feels better now than before surgery already. I am due to go to the doctor for the first time on Tuesday to get sutures out. I am anxious to find out my limitations. I pray that this works. I'll keep you posted on the progress. I JUST WANT TO GET RID OF THE CRUTCHES!!!

Email: Comments: It's been three and half months since my surgery , and the pain is still here. I must say that it is much worse than ever before. Last week my doctor ordered a nerve conduction study to rule out tarsal tunnel. Well it isn't that. Although I won't get the official results till this Wednesday, the dr. that performed the test took only 15 minutes into it, to tell me that he had found the sorce of my problem but would have to refer back to his text because he was not fimiliar with this form of a result. He says that there is a block in my tibular nerve just below my ankle. He says that my foot isn't getting the messages? I am not sure what this means. What I do know is that ever since this test my foot has been even more painful (if that can be possible). The pain is more like a sensation that has always been there since the very day of my last surgery. Imagine somebody turning up the volume on the radio or something. This is what I feel. I have not always been able to kee! p this uncomforatable sensation under control. I mean usually if I stay completely off of it, I can usually tolerate it most of the day. Usually it will wear me down by night and just as I think I will loose my mind, it is bed time and I can usually get a few hours of sleep before it wakes me up. I am almost completely out of my mind. I am not sure how much longer I can hold out. This is the hardest thing I ever had to deal with. I try to keep my mind off of this feeling but it is very hard. I think I am going crazy. This sticking, burning hyper sensation is consumming me. It NEVER stops. It just is. I hope that the test finds some form of a solution, cause I only have alittle bit of my mind left before it's all gone. Till next time, I will keep the faith and continue to try and find some way to relieve this awful mess I find myself in.

Email: Comments: thanks for the info. i have printed the information and will take it with me to both p.t. and my dr. I like my dr. but feel that he has no idea what is wrong and that he has no more ideas so i hope that he can evaluate these other conditions and hopefully rule them out. I feel that knowing what is wrong will help me if not phisically, then mentally. I can not express how frustrating this is, not knowing, and not being able to fix it. I am in agreement with you when you say that imobolizing my foot makes it worse. I have expressed this to both p.t. and my dr. who seem not to understand this concept. When it becomes real bad it is a direct result of complete rest. Hey thanks for the info. I am so happy to know that this is not a only me kind of problem. I can go back to dr. this week and let him know of this sight so he can be better informed.

Email: Comments: I am a letter carrier was diagnosed with pf in Oct 96. The family doctor recommended orthotics, which gave me some relief for about three months, at the same time I was taking rx anti-inflamitory meds. In may of 97 finally went to podiatrist. I have had at least 7 injections in my heel only recieved relief with maybe two, and then ended up worse afterwards. They were not only painfull but left me with hugh bruising on my calf. At this time I also took p.t. more orthotics and by Aug. of 97 had pf in both feet. I was scheduled for surgery but prior to began to have numbness in my toes, as well as severe pain and tightness up the insides of my legs, also began having charlie horses that woke me at night. I was ready for the surgery. Surgery was performed on Nov. 17 1997. I returned back to work on dec 15 97. It seemed like the surgery was helping at first, but by May of 98, not fully back to carrying all day I began having the same pain but now it was in the center of m! y heel. This pain became worse in a few weeks and I again stared having leg pain and noticed that I had a lump about 2inches long on the inside of my calf that was painful to touch and often burned. After i had a doppler study a blood clot was ruled out I then went to my family doc. who says that it feels like a fatty mass. Why does it hurt.. Well they went in on july 17 98 and opened my foot to do a total release my doctor found to masses in my heel that he removed, took off my hugh bone spur and had to remove some of the pf itself for which he said had formed back to its original tightness. He also had to remove some of the nerve that he said was trapped in the mass. I am now three months post op. one week after surgery I was placed in a walking cast and began having the most annoying not so much painful as uncomforatable sensation in my heel at which time he removed the cast. I have been in pt for 2 months now and still have the tingling now pricking pain not only in my heel but also up the side of my leg. My toes are still numb and when I do try to walk it is with much pain and effort.I can tolerate no touching in the heel and upon touching the inciision siteI have shocking sensation across my heel as well as up the foot to my toes. I have also developed hammer toes to two of my toes which just suddenly appeared. The dr. says that it is not a result of my pf but i beg to differ. I feel those damm injections caused not only my hammer toes but i truely believe that it has also resulted in tarsal tunnel syndrome. I have had another injection (desperate for relief)! and although it helped me temp, I still have the problem and now worse. I have not returned to work yet and can do very little on my feet and pay for anything I do.My dr. now has no clue as to what is wrong and I stretch all day long to try and keep my calf muscles from constricting to the point of severe pain. It is very frustrating because I feel my dr. is at a loss for words. At times I feel as though he thinks I am full of it. I have told him that in my opinion I am 10 times worse since this surgery and can at this point not walk right. I feel like my foot is brken (xrays say other wise) and I have built caleses on my ball of foot. If this isn't enogh at the point at where the masses were removed (fibroid masses) I feel as though something is stuck on the bottom of my heel like a peice of wood? Which my dr. says should go away saying that the area at which he removed these masses will have to form scar tissue to fill the empty spaces. And last but not least if my dr. didn! 't tell me it was inpossible i would swear that I am walking on my heel bone without any fatty tissue and that my foot bones are going to fall right out through the bottom of my foot. He has recently told my worker's comp nurse that I will have a permanent dissability. This is not at all incouraging to hear. It looks like I will never carry mail again. At one time I thought that that was the most inportant thing in the world to me. lol lol Well not anymore I am 33/f and am now 30 pnds. over my idea weight, severly depressed, and no longer worry about my job as much, actually not at all. I can only think of my ability to walk correctly ever again. I find myself costantly dwelling on the pain, and inability to interact with my kids. And I think my family (although no one says it) is tired of hearing about my feet. Did I mention that my other foot now hurts. I hope to hear from someone out there that has some of these problems. Ifeel like I am at the end of the road with no more help possible. Recently my dr. said that he feels that tarcel tunnel is what is causing the pain, well gee that makes it all better not !! They are pushing for me to ret! urn to work because worker's comp wants me to. They say they can give me a seditary job, well what good is this if I am beside myself with pain no pain meds and find that nothing relieves my pain. If i sound bitter I am. If you suffer from pf then you know that it stops all your activities, and becomes very difficult to handle after years of suffering with no relief and progression of the pain is the only thing you have to look forward to.

Email: Comments: I had surgery for PF on Friday September 18th, so I am now 11 days post surgery. Doctor said I could wean myself off crutches after 6 days, which I delightedly did, but suffered some the next day. So I use no crutches around the house but take them with me to work and stores, etc. I progressed from hobbling, to walking flat footed, to walking now with foot fully flexing and extending like normal. I still ice and rest with my feet up at intervals during the day. I find I cannot work at my desk with my foot propped up, it stretches the arch of the foot and hurts. The twinges in my non-surgical foot have stopped. I think it was bothered because I wasn't allowed to put any weight on my surgical foot and it had to bear all my weight. I see the doctor on Thursday and I hope he takes this cast off. Then I shall see how the foot is without a cast. One bright note - I have slept great because there is no pain in the heel! My discomfort is mostly muscular, I believe from all those ! days of bedrest and nonuse.

Email: Comments: I had Athroscopic surgery on Friday and am on total bedrest until Monday. I have had problem with my right root for years, but actively sought help since January, first from Chiropractor, next from Podiatrist. I did everything they told me; exercise, ice, medication, orthotics always and still had problems. So I felt that surgery was a last option, but as I read this website I had doubts. I went ahead with the surgery, and I did take pain medication when I got home yesterday, but have had none since. I have a fiberglass cast like a shoe, and I ice the ankle to keep cool. My doctors appointment is on Tuesday. I will let you know how it goes.

Email: Comments: I had surgery Friday September 18th and went to the doctor yesterday. He says I can now put 50% weight on the right foot, which is still casted. I was on complete bedrest before, so this is great improvement. Have had no pain in the right foot (the surgery foot) at all. In fact I have slept well since the surgery because I haven't any aching in the heel! I have had little twinges in the left foot, which until today held all my weight. I have a bone spur also in the left foot but it has never bothered me. It seems better today after icing yesterday and using both feet to hold my weight. I want to do so much since I feel so well, but I am really trying to be patient with myself and rest both the feet so I can continue to heal without pain. So far so good! will keep you posted.

Email: Comments: I had plantar fascia release and bone spur reduction surgery on my right foot in early May. I went in to the surgery with both feet hurting. After the operation my doctor said that the pain in my left foot would probably go away when thr right foot heals up. IT DID. I was in a cast for the first month. Then crutches. There were some setbacks but all in all the surgery was a sucess. I was using a cane after the crutch period. I have been cane-free now for a month. I still have pain at times but each week brings improvement. Important....as the pain in the right foot began to subside(after about 2 months) I began having pain in my left knee my podiatrist said this was normal and with exercise (stretching the achilles heel) this would too go away. It has. I am now (4 months) at the point where a nice long walk hurts but after ice and overnight rest I see definite improvement each following period. I recommend the surgery for anyone.....of course after going through th! e required torture of long months in pain, therapy a cortisone shot or two..(I had one refused the second due to excruciating pain from the first). Therapy helped a bit before and after surgery. The main thing that worked for me was ice. My podiatrist told me that ice should be appied to the ankle not the acutal incision area. Thankfully only 10 percent of PF sufferers need surgery I am glad mine is over. Best of luck to all you sufferers out there.

Name: Barry Email: Time: Tuesday, September 29, 1998 at 17:47:08 Comments: I had Endoscopic Plantar Release last Tuesday and felt. I did not follow my podiatrist's directions to take it easy. I made the mistake of going back to work two days laters and then doing a little light soccer ball kicking on Saturday. Well, now it's infected and sore. Now, I have to stay home. I'm a teacher in Phila. and felt that I had to go right back for the kids. As a result, my students are now going to have to do without me for an even longer time. NERVE ENTRAPMENT. I learned from my hernia operation eight years ago, which resulted in severe nerver entrapment, that you need to shop around and select a surgeon who has performed the procedure a thousand times. So, I think I found the best podiadrist, a guy in Reading PA who performs the procedure right in his own office and operates regularly. I was right, he is the best. My suggestion is if you are looking for a podiatrist to perform Plantar Faciitis Release, find one who has the equipment and nurses right in his own office. Also, I HIGHLY recommend that if you are suffering from any type of nerver entrapment, you should have the procedure done over again and again and again until someone gets it right. I had three hernia operations in 2 1/2 years just to get rid of terrible pain. The third operation worked and it was like being born again. So, please don't put up with the bull, make them operate again! Talk to ya later.

Name: Kathy Email: Time: Monday, September 28, 1998 at 18:41:39 Comments: I had surgery on 9/11. With only one rough day since then, I am so glad I finally did this. I had suffered with pain in both feet for over 2 years. The shots worked in the right foot, but not the left. After 5 shots, anit-inflamatory medication, wrapping, and shoe inserts I saw a podiatrist and he reccommended EPF. Some of the posts on this board concerned me, but others encouraged me. I was only on crutches for three days and able to return to work, part time within 10 days, and expect ot return full time next week. The stitches came out last week, and I still have some tenderness around the incisions, but very little pain the rest of the time. I am still in a surgery boot because of this tenderness. I have a numb, stiff feeling in my heel when I first stand on it in the morning, but that is so much differnt from the stabbing pain I used to feel. My doctor said that a different feeling is good and that some people don't get relief this fast. I guess I was ! one of the lucky ones. We'll see what happens in the future, but right now I am very happy.

I am now one week post op. I had the "open" fasciotomy. I have been following the guestbook comments for several months now. I have also researched the surgery options and recovery results for at least as long. After suffering with PF for some two years, I tried everything. All of the conventional treatments (ice, stretching, massage, accupuncture, orthodocs, cortisone shots, cast) with no success. One thing I have noticed with the surgery guest page is that it would seem - on the surface - that there are not many successful results. However, after researching this subject extensively, I think that, unfortunately, the successful canditates do NOT tend to return to this web page as their problem as gone and is no longer of interest to them. I intend to post my progress regularly so that I can provide information - wheter or not - it is successful. Here is how it went so far for me: I chose the "open" procedure over EPF - mostly because I could find more long term success rates with this type. My doctor told me she could "see" better than using endoscopic. So although the recovery time is substantially longer than EPF, I was more interested in the overall success of the surgery so that I could run again. The surgery was really painless. I had it done in an outpatient clinic under local anesthetic. A couple of hours later I went home to bed for the rest of the day. The foot was elevated above the heart for at least 48 hrs after the surgery. I found that keeping it elevated for the week has helped to keep the swelling down. The stitches are to remain in for 10 days and absolutely no weight bearing activities. I am hobbling around on crutches - but mostly sitting with the foot elevated. There was slight pain on the first day or two after the surgery - and the prescribed Vicadin took care of it. At one week post op, I am having no pain at all. I have returned to work - though trying to stay seated with the foot elevated most of the time. I will do my best to post additional follow up so that those looking to do this type of surgery will have something more to go on. Anyone wanting any specific information from me can feel free to e-mail me anytime.

I have read most of the posts and am now quite confused as to the effectiveness and potential problems of Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy and traditional release surgery. I have had PF bilaterally for over 2 years and gone through the myriad of conservative treatments without success. I am 39 years old, previously active, and not overweight. I am considering surgery. I have found a reasonable amount of positive information on EPF-the source of much of this info. though is websites of doctors who perform this procedure. However, I have found the posts I've read here disturbing concerning both types of surgeries. Is this really a statistical indication of success for these procedures- or are those with unhappy experiences much more likely to repond than those who had successful outcomes? Are more opting for EPF now vs. traditional release surgery? My present situation is frustrating more than debilitating. I am anxious for a solution that will return me to pre-pf form and therefore will gladly submit to surgery if I believed it would prove successful. However, the more I read the more I find it difficult to assess risk vs. reward for either of the PF surgeries. Any input is appreciated.

I hope that you will continue to update the surgery guestbook. It has been very helpful in learning about PF and getting emotion support by hearing from others. Thanks also to the webdoctor.

It's been three and half months since my surgery , and the pain is still here. I must say that it is much worse than ever before. Last week my doctor ordered a nerve conduction study to rule out tarsal tunnel. Well it isn't that. Although I won't get the official results till this Wednesday, the dr. that performed the test took only 15 minutes into it, to tell me that he had found the sorce of my problem but would have to refer back to his text because he was not fimiliar with this form of a result. He says that there is a block in my tibular nerve just below my ankle. He says that my foot isn't getting the messages? I am not sure what this means. What I do know is that ever since this test my foot has been even more painful (if that can be possible). The pain is more like a sensation that has always been there since the very day of my last surgery. Imagine somebody turning up the volume on the radio or something. This is what I feel. I have not always been able to keep this uncomforatable sensation under control. I mean usually if I stay completely off of it, I can usually tolerate it most of the day. Usually it will wear me down by night and just as I think I will loose my mind, it is bed time and I can usually get a few hours of sleep before it wakes me up. I am almost completely out of my mind. I am not sure how much longer I can hold out. This is the hardest thing I ever had to deal with. I try to keep my mind off of this feeling but it is very hard. I think I am going crazy. This sticking, burning hyper sensation is consumming me. It NEVER stops. It just is. I hope that the test finds some form of a solution, cause I only have alittle bit of my mind left before it's all gone. Till next time, I will keep the faith and continue to try and find some way to relieve this awful mess I find myself in.

Hi, This is an update to my last entry. I am on my third week post surgery. I have walked around the house without my crutches and I pay for it in the evening time. It still hurts. My doctor said I should use my crutches for two more weeks. So far the pain only feels about half of what it was. I pray that it will get better, but I guess having it feel half as bad as it did it better than it not working at all. Good luck to all of you. Vicky

I had Athroscopic surgery on Friday and am on total bedrest until Monday. I have had problem with my right root for years, but actively sought help since January, first from Chiropractor, next from Podiatrist. I did everything they told me; exercise, ice, medication, orthotics always and still had problems. So I felt that surgery was a last option, but as I read this website I had doubts. I went ahead with the surgery, and I did take pain medication when I got home yesterday, but have had none since. I have a fiberglass cast like a shoe, and I ice the ankle to keep cool. My doctors appointment is on Tuesday. I will let you know how it goes.

I am going in for surg. on my right foot for pf in 2hrs. i have just discovered this site while i was at the pc due to not being able to sleep. I have had injections over a 3 yr period,ultrasound,taping orthotics, birinstocks made to my foot,stretches , daypro, and of course now i am at the end of my rope. will let u know how i do. By the way, I am an overweight person who is a nurse and always on my feet. I recently had to leave work due to the pain in my feet. I was not too thrilled at the articles on surg. but we will see in awhile.

This is my third summary of my post surgery experience. My first surgery in Nov. 97 was an EPF on my left foot (first foot), and my second surgery in Jan. 98 was an EPF on my right foot (second foot). All along my second foot has been far better than my first foot. My post operative experience for the past 6 months or so has been a series of ups and downs. For pain relief in the past year or so, I have been taking Naproxen. Around April, my feet stopped making progress, so I went to my podiatrist who gave me another cortisone shot in my first foot. When this didn’t help any, he prescribed Methsopredsolone? (steroid). Though my feet felt better for the week, this was no long term fix. Next, in May, he prescribed some physical therapy. My physical therapist administered deep heating via ultrasound and myofascial release. The effects of the ultrasound were so so; however, the myofascial release (massage) helped right away. It still recall that when my physical therapist released a certain tight spot, I felt relief immediately. I even remember her saying there it is! When she released the tissue, I thought I was going to die. However, from that first massage, I could walk with less pain. I couldn’t believe how much it helped. I have been in physical therapy since May with very good results. Matter of fact, I no longer believe that a radical plantar fasciotomy will be necessary. Also, in July, I took a trip to Europe, and as one might imagine, I did a lot of walking. Though it was painful, my podiatrist and physical therapist thinks this really helped me turn the corner in my recovery. More recently, I began to use a night splint. We’ll see if it helps any. Overall, my first foot is about 80%, and my second foot is about 90%. My advice for a speedy recovery is myofascial release, walking, and physical therapy.

Just thought I'd give you all an update on my progress with chiropractic care. I have seen the chiro. 2, maybe 3 times since I've last written, and I'm happy to say that one foot is fine and well, the other (which is the foot/ankle I have sprained 3 times in the last couple of years) is much improved but not quite all the way there yet. Since this foot has been through some trauma, I expect it will take longer to get well. I am "OK" with this, especially after reading of all of your troubles, and knowing that one foot is "OK" now. The other will just take more time....it has been 'messed up' longer. Too bad that so many of you seem to trust your doctors' and not take the intiative to try other alternative treatments. You might be pleasantly surprised!! I might add that I have been keeping up on the stretching exercises. I personally feel that this is EXTREMELY important to long term relief, as I am sure my problem stems from non-use of the tendons and muscles involved (i.e. achilles tendon especially). Again, Good-Luck to all in whatever road you choose.

Have had PF for four years. Have gone to 10 doctors. Lost 20 pounds and do the exercises. I have had EPF. I wouldn't recommend it. For some it works but it seems that more people than not it has failed. Have one of the top 10 doctors working with me but everytime I do in I ask for the amputation room. Have been hanging out in the PRF chat room and though it hurts to walk hearing of others' pain helps me keep my mind of myself. Would love to hear from ya! Wish we could get a support group going. E-mail me if you are interested. I have had to extremely change my way of life. The only hope I have is that God is in control even of this horrific suffering we have to go through. Like I said, some people can't even breath easily. OUr only problem is walking.

TOO BAD I DIDN'T FIND THIS SITE 2 YEARS AGO!!! when i got p.f. in both feet from an over-active summer! It took 3 months of blood tests, etc. at my regular doctor before he sent me to a foot dr. because i was extremly fatigued and had a lot of shooting pains in my legs and didn't know what it was, all the time the pain was increasing. My first 6 months at the podoetrist didn't help either, i was NOT informed of many things to do to help! I tried everything, but only one thing at a time!! And didn't stick with any one thing. Now I have a huge bone spur on my left foot and am scheduled for surgery tomorrow to remove it. I'm scared after being at this site all day!! Can ANYONE give me an encouraging word??? At least my right foot is better than it was and I will put some of the things I learned today toward healing it. Please answer quick!! thanks

I had the regular surgery on September 1st. I have had almost no pain. It sure feels better now than before surgery already. I am due to go to the doctor for the first time on Tuesday to get sutures out. I am anxious to find out my limitations. I pray that this works. I'll keep you posted on the progress. I JUST WANT TO GET RID OF THE CRUTCHES!!!

I had the regular surgery on September 1st. I have had almost no pain. It sure feels better now than before surgery already. I am due to go to the doctor for the first time on Tuesday to get sutures out. I am anxious to find out my limitations. I pray that this works. I'll keep you posted on the progress. I JUST WANT TO GET RID OF THE CRUTCHES!!!

I had a typo in my previous post, it should have said that I did some shopping today WITHOUT any terrible pain.

Update...today I got my sutures out of the foot that I had surgery on last Thursday. My feet are somewhat tender but I was able to do a little shopping today with terrible pain so I feel that my surgeries have done well so far. My doctor feels that the less you disturb the foot with surgery, incisions, etc, the better results you have. I have to agree with him so far. I am anxious to see if this will last months, or years. I will keep writing occasionally to let you know.

i have gout in one foot, and bursitus in the other.can someone please tell me what to do. please e-mail me.

One year ago I was in agony with PF. All of the doctors wanted to operate. My stomach was eaten up with advil. I tried casting, Birkenstocks etc. etc. etc. I AM CURED! THE REASON - I DID NOT HAVE SURGERY. I STARTED WEARING MEPHISTO SHOES WITH THE TRAMPOLIN- SYSTEM SHOCK ABSORBER The shoes and sandles are very expensive, but I am pain free. Do not hurry into surgery. I had 8 accupuncture treatments to promote the healing, streatched every morning before getting out of bed and started wearing the shoes that gave me my life back. I AM NOT GETTING PAID TO SAY THIS (I wish I was!) I found Birkenstocks to be the same as the orthotics that the doctors kept giving me i.e. hard and inflexible thus agrivating the problem and not allowing it to heal. It took about 6 months of gradually getting better but ... WOW I HAVE MY LIFE BACK AGAIN.

I've written of my friend's terrible experiences with EPF. I am writing this to bring something to everyone's attention. After EPF's he was disabled. As time passed we searched everywhere for clues and answers. One neurologist wanted to review previous medical records. So we requested copies of medical records from any physician that had seen, consulted, or treated his condition. All the physicians' notes were an exact account of situation, EXCEPT the original doctor that performed the surgeries. This was a painful shock. The doctor's notes did not accurately reflect his presenting conditions at the time. Instead, they were general impressions of success and any indication of a problem was sugar coated or somehow omitted from the records. I urge everyone to request a copy of your medical records. You have this right and it is for your benefit. You can make a chronilogical review of your progress. If the doctor does not seem to be on the same "page" as you regarding your pain, then you will realize the need to communicate this to him. When you see a physician once a month, once a week, or however often, you have to communicate a great deal in a short period (office visit). It is imperative that the doctor fully comprehends the degree of your pain or lack of success. One way to verify this is by checking your records. You might spend 20 minutes speaking with an office nurse or assistant, yet they might not write any note. You might make several phone calls expressing severe pain, yet there is no documentation. Ie, you call office in severe pain, yet they cannot see you for a week. They schedule appointment, maybe refill a prescription, but do not note the date and severity of pain. If this is not noted, doctor might not be aware of how you have been doing. Remember there can be a lot of words exchanged in a 15 minute visit, but when they are reduced to your office visit notes, they will be concise and could not include all details of communication. There is nothing offensive about requesting your records. This is my suggestion to those who seem to be having a lot of pain after their surgeries. You would assume that the doctor fully comprehends based on oral communications and feedback, but his notes concisely represent his understanding of the situation and will remove any question. Hindsight is 20/20. Do not misunderstand my suggestion. Reviewing your medical records is a responsible way that you can be involved in management of your care. It will be rewarding to see that your physician is clearly in tune with how you are doing. If not, it will give you the opportunity to insure your doctor understands exactly your condition. Best wishes in everyone's recovery. Scott

After two years of trying all methods to relieve pain from pf to no avail, I was finally referred to an orthopedic surgeon. We opted to do surgery and on May 20, three months ago, I had surgery for pf, a complete release, removal of what the Dr. said was a huge heel spur, and a nerve release. I went home to bed for 6 days with my foot elevated two feet above my heart then went to a cast for nine days, then a brace. After six weeks on crutches my foot was still swelling so I was on crutches for a total of ten weeks. My soot is still hurting if I do anything at length, I still can't even go to the mall. I decided to go to one crutch to help take some of the pressure off, and that seems to be helping. The top of my foot gets stiff, tho. I was scheduled to have the same surgery on my other foot two weeks ago and even tho they had the IV in me I wasn't comforgable going through with the operation while my other foot was still hurting. The Dr. agreed. I stretch my foot often throughout the day and that helps. The Dr. says sometimes it takes 6 months before the foot feels 100% better. I was an avid Jazzerciser and wanted to try out to be an instructor, and miss going to class. I swim and ride a bike. I would like some feed back to see if this is all normal, and do I have hope to ever getting back to my arobics. The majority of the letters on this list were quite discouraging and it seems as if alot of you are alot worse off than me. I am considering acupuncture in my other foot instead of surgery. I heard of someone doing this and it cured her.. Has anyone out there ever tried this? Please respond to me as soon as possible. Thanks. Debbie

Well, today I had my 2nd EPF surgery. It's been one month since my first one. I am on crutches just like the last time and my first foot is bearing all the weight. I will let you know as the days go by if this is going to go as well as it did the first time. Right now I am not feeling any pain but it is usually like that at first. So far I do not regret my surgeries and I feel that I had exhausted all the other options anyway. I will keep in touch.

Well, today I had my 2nd EPF surgery. It's been one month since my first one. I am on crutches just like the last time and my first foot is bearing all the weight. I will let you know as the days go by if this is going to go as well as it did the first time. Right now I am not feeling any pain but it is usually like that at first. So far I do not regret my surgeries and I feel that I had exhausted all the other options anyway. I will keep in touch.

I have very mixed emotions as I read through the entries on the surgery guest book. A close friend underwent two epfs. His pain worsened exponentially. We searched desperately for answers, but could find little on complications of epf. Unfortunately we've learned that early intervention could have prevented his currently disabling condition. Even worse, there were many reasons the epfs should not have been performed. I believe that much of the information physicians are relying on when they tell patients of the benefits of epf is biased and incomplete. I've gathered that this group is very informed and versed in pf, epf, conservative treatment, etc. Does anyone know of a resource that lists contraindications to epf, retrospective analyses of consequences or complications? Does anyone regret having surgery? Is there an internet resource that provides this information (epf specifically)? Has anyone researched plantar fasciitis after epf and found that there were alternatives? Please understand that we realize we cannot change the past. What I'm looking for is a vehicle to compile honest feelings toward epf and make this available to those considering procedure. My mixed emotions is sadness as I read through a list of questions that we've lived through... Best of luck in your recovery. Scott

Hi, time for another update. I've found someone who wanted the second free night splint from Annette, so that's gone. Wanted to update you again -- my first PF surgery was in 10/97, done by a podiatrist. In my last message I said an orthopedist wants to do a second surgery on the same foot. Just want to tell you I decided against it. I may still have some pain, can't walk barefoot...but since I can hike 6 miles with little repercussion, and my feet feel good in Birkenstocks, I think I'll leave it alone! Maybe it's just taking a long time to heal. I wouldn't say my surgery was unsuccessful. Don't be discouraged too soon after your surgery, it just might take a real long time to heal. It's hard to heal something you're walking on. Oh -- I did learn something more about my surgery recently. The doctor actually did release my PF in a very small area: just where the heel spur was. He removed the heel spur and thereby he removed its attachment to the PF. Possibly as a result of that, I no longer have more pain in the morning than other times. Perhaps this is similar to the small triangular area that one person said one doctor likes to remove, in the center of the PF where it attaches to the heel. Thanks again for this forum...Beth in Tucson

I have found non-surgical relief with chiropractic care. Beware....not all chiropractors are alike. Unfortunately, there are chiropractors who are only after your money. Also, there are different chiropractic philosophies. The chiro. that has helped me with my feet and ankles is a graduate of the Palmer College in CA. He specialized in sport injuries. I can't tell you how to pick a good chiro., but it sounds like most of you have enough basic knowledge to at least call and ask ahead of time (this is what I would do - I have found chiros. that don't believe in adjusting the extremities) and ask if the chiro. does feet and ankles. Basically what my chiro. does for me is to "yank" on my calcaneous. Stretching of the achilles will make this an easier adjustment. Also, he will manipulate my metatarsuls, and relieve some of the pressure there, and "crack" (by pulling/yanking) my toes. I neglected my feet to the point where they were very painful to walk on. I have been to the chiro. about 3-4 times now and am very much improved! Just remember...the longer your foot has been messed up....the longer chiro. will take. I would like to mention too, that I had an orthopedic surgeon tell me (after spending a whole ten minutes with me) that I had such bad carpal tunnel that I would probably need two surgeries!! How many of you are hearing that now? Did you know that carpal tunnel is also a "release surgery"? Did you know that carpal tunnel is not very successful either? This really bothers me. For my carpal tunnel, I followed a chiros. advice and did some exercises to strengthen the wrists/tendons, I never had surgery, and only did the exercises for a few days, and was better. For my PF, I am seeing a chiro. and having good results. I am hoping some of you will consider seeing a chiro., I would be interested to hear how you do? Good-Luck to all!

I had conventional surgery July 20, 1998 on both feet. I took two weeks off work and kept my feet elevated and iced consistently. I returned to work August 3rd. I am concerned because I don't seem to be making any further progress. I have pain in my right heel almost constantly, and I sometimes have pain in both arches. I was assured this was normal, and that it sometimes takes a few months to get back on track. What I am wondering is if anyone has any suggestions for what to do in the interim. I am currently wearing Reebok dmx and working on slightly stretching the heel. Any guidance anyone could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Just a quick update to say that without my new orthotics (started with them in May), I wouldn't be walking these days. They have taken a lot of pressure off my arch and give some relief to the trapped nerve.. My situation which was worsening rapidly earlier in the year, has stabilized somewhat. Not getting better but getting no worse. So this is some measure of progress. My doc says that I shouldn't consider another PF surgery until I come to him and say in these precise words, "I'm in constant pain and I can't walk." So my advice to all on seeking a second surgery or in considering the radical form of the plantar fasciotomy (severing both lateral and the medial bands) is to 'Go Slow.' Again that's 'GO SLOW.'

I have been way over due in providing follow-ups. It is now week 12 and I am sorry to report that the EPF did not work for me. The first two weeks I thought that I was making great progress. Was walking in regular shoes since day 3 and getting a little better each day. But things never progressed as far as had hoped and, in fact, I have regressed some what. My operated foot is feeling slightly worse than before surgery (quite depressing). In addition to the regular pain back by the heel, I now am experiencing some pain under the balls of the foot (the metatarsels). Doctor says that it is not from the surgery, but I know better. Doc says that maybe I need a second surgery, one in which more of the fascia is cut (first go around only 1/3 was released). As of right now, no way. If first surgery made my foot worse, I am terrified of what I will feel like after second one. However, there are doctors that advocate a total release as the only means of eliminating the pain. So as of now, I am back on the quest for a cure.

I had surgery on both feet in October of 1997. I can say that it has helped my right foot some, however my left foot is no better now than before. I went for another nerve test on 8/11/98 and was told that the nerve was not resopnding at all. No one seems to know what to do now so I am waiting to see what they come up with next. It was suggested that maybe an exploratory type surgery be done to find out why the nerve isn't responding. I have spent years and most of my patience trying to understand why this didn't work. I have a 2 1/2 inch scar on my left foot now and they want to do more?? My doctor already said she had never seen a nerve so intrapped and that it was a real mess. Durring surgery an artery was nicked and it had to be repaired too. I spent the night in the hospital and then 6 weeks in a wheelchair, I was to put no weight on my left foot at all. I am not sure what to do now if any one has any advise please let me know. I asked my HMO to refer me to another Podiatrist not in the same office and they said no. Not sure what to do now. I will try to keep all updated. Lora

Time for another update. My orthopedist wants to do a second surgery on my foot (a podiatrist did the first one). I haven't agreed to it yet. Has anyone on this list ever had two conventional surgeries on the same foot? The thought scares me some. What about scar tissue and numbness? Yesterday I tried my first real hike since the surgery in 10/97 -- I went 6.2 miles on a mountain trail, with orthotics in hiking boots. I was surprised that my foot didn't feel much different afterward! Just a tiny bit achy. It does hurt a lot if you press on the bottom of the heel, which is the same way it was before the hike. Dr. says there may be another entrapped nerve in there. That's why he wants to operate. By the way, I've discovered the Birkenstock "blue footbed" insoles. They make my feet feel almost as good as the Birk sandals do, and they fit into any pair of shoes. So if you have to wear dressier shoes, this might be the way to go! They cost $45 (!), but they feel better than custom orthotics. I want to thank Annette, who mailed me two night splints for free! You are wonderful! I'm using one now. If anyone else wants the second one, and you can't afford $60+ for a new one, write to me. I'll mail the extra one to the first person I hear from via e-mail. Annette, a check covering your postage costs is in the mail. Beth... bkane@artisoft.com ...Good luck to you all.

It's been 9 days since surgery and things are going great. I even did some shopping the past few days. I still wear my surgical shoe but will soon be back in regular shoes. There is very little pain in my foot and I only used the crutches the first three days. The secret though was that I used my circulating ice machine continuously for the first three days and quite a bit after that. As a matter of fact, I still sit down and use it a little bit each day. It makes the recovery so much easier. My doctor was interested in hearing about it since he was surprised at how well things were going when I went back to get the sutures out. I told him I was ready to have the other foot done but he told me to wait until he got back from vacation as this one needs more time to heal. I am anxiously waiting to have that one done now and am scheduled for August 27th. I wish I would have done this years ago!!! All the time I wasted on orthodics, stretching, injections, numerous pairs of shoes, including Birkenstocks, etc was not necessary but the doctors like to use the conservative approach if it works. I will keep you posted but if anyone wants to write to me feel free to drop me a note at the address above. I will also include the address for one brand of those circulating ice machines in case anyone is interested. They are somewhat costly but they come in handy for any type of surgery or injury that any of your family may have too. https://www.prmed.com/iceman.htm

Well, three days since surgery. I am still using one crutch but will start putting more weight on my foot today. So far this hasn't been very bad. Keeping the foot up and icing is very important. My foot feels different and I am hoping this is just what I needed. I see the doctor in two days and I will let you know what he says.

Funny..I thought I was the only one that found some haven in Reebok dmx! Thanks to this board, I found some Birkenstocks, and though they are not totally broken in, They are helping some. Best thing unfortunately for me is to not work (I cater at school) However, I have to work, and I have to excersize. I recieved an email saying actupuncture probably wasn't any better than most anything else. I'm sort of into natural medicines ect, and am hoping to look around and find out all the options. Right now I am looking into Osteopathy, Ayurveda, various Chinese techniques, and of course the other usuals. Any comments welcome (i'm writing a paper on this right now)

Well, I had my EPF surgery yesterday, so as most of you know, there is some pain today. I will keep you informed as to my progress. I am hoping and praying that this will give me some relief. Any amount of pain relief would be better than what I was going through before. My other foot is really suffering today as I am using it for everything while I am using crutches. Well, I'm off to put my foot up and ice. Will write more soon. Kim

It has been a month since I have last written. I have been discharged by my doctor. I am about 98% pain free since I had both feet done. The only time I really have any pain is in the morning when I wake up. I just ordered the Strassburg sock and hope that it will work to ease the morning pain. Wear the New Balance running shoes with a soft orthotic during the day and Birkenstocks around the house. I am starting a new job next week so was wondering if anyone can give me suggestions for a shoe that can be worn for business casual. Not allowed to wear any type of sandals. I do find that wearing my Birkenstocks during the day just don't give me the support that I need as I am on my feet alot during the day. I would appreciate hearing from anyone who can offer a style of shoe for work.

Hello Again, For anyone's edification, the EPF procedure was pioneered by Dr. Stephen V. Day, DPM and Dr. Stephen L. Barrett, DPM in Houston, about 1991. Baseball player Mark McGwire was suffering from heel pain. He underwent a partial EPF release which was ineffective. He then underwent a full release. Reportedly today he is pain free. His doctor was Dr. Baxter, an orthopedist in Houston. Thanks.

Hello, 33 years old. Suffering from plantar fasciitis since 1991. I am not a runner or overweight. I am a weight lifter, therefore my bodyweight is higher than the charts recommend (190 lbs. at 5'10") and bicycler. Worked as a machinist for 7 years prior to 1991. Pain has motivated me to change careers. My discomfort initially baffled the DRS., as I had no morning pain or sensitivity to palpation. My pain is upon standing. The longer I stand the more it hurts. Whether in 1991 or today, I can walk for 2-3 hours, however I can stand for no more than 30-45 minutes, confounding the drs. I have seen 6 podiatrists and 2 orthopedic surgeons. The orthopedist have been more conservative. One in particular, Dr. Platner was terrible. He was a young DR. from the 'old school' of the pain will go away! How wrong he has been. Had all the usual RX's; Naprosyn, Feldene, Daypro, Voltaren, Relefin, 3 pairs of orthotics, (Kenalog) injections twice, physical therapy (mildly helpful, identified a weakness in the tibia muscle, which supports the arch), icing, homeopathy, & Chinese herbs. The only oral med to offer significant relief was mixing Feldene 20mg. and Naprosyn 550. Can't live on pills, though, and the Dr. thought it unsafe to mix the meds. In 1994 I had partial EPF with the scope, performed by a SFO area podiatrist. My Dr. stated he did not have a single patient experience an exacerbation of pain following surgery. Recovery was very painful, requiring vicodin. Returned to normal walking in 6-7 weeks. At 6 weeks or today the procedure did NOT relieve my heel pain. My current podiatrist wants to try a dynamic night splint (DynaSplint) and a soft orthotic. I wear Saucony sport shoes, Birkenstocks (ugly yes, however function outweighs form), or a $10 pair of rubber sandals with heel cups. Stretching is helpful at delaying the onset of pain. My dr. recommends Romika clogs, a bit expensive, although I'll probably try them. Romika's offer the proper 'S' shaped insole, like many types of cowboy boots. Thank You. Tom

Hi, this is my one year post EPF update, I have had no complication from the surgery which was done by an orthopedic surgeon, but also not total recovery either. I suffered for over one year and went through all the usually rx's before having elective surgery on my left foot. I have not had a sucessfull surgery and am not back to my normal pre fascitis life. I am 99% pain free during normal activities around the house and shopping . I cannot wear any other shoes other than reebocks dmx with orthotic and recently found a pair of birk sandals that cause no pain. I still cannot walk more than 1/2 mile around the track without a set back of pain, that last for a week with icing and increased stretching. I continue to stretch twice a day and take anti-inflamatories along with glucosamine complex ect.. I find it frustrating that I cannot walk the amount I would like, but I am happy that day to day activities I am just about pain free. I have changed my lifestle also, changed jobs to a sitting down instead of on my feet all day, so that also has helped, probably more than I would like to admit. I still think the surgery helped to a small degree since I was so uncomfortable prior to surgery , but I certainly did not get the results that I hoped for and that was a cure. I think if I had made my lifestlye changes prior to surgery, that things would not be much different a this point. Since some people with surgery have been more sucessfull it is still worth a shot. At least I am no worse having the surgery and it did force me to make some changes for the better. Good luck to all-----------Eileen

Linda brought up the night splint. Is it possible to get one for any less than $60? I'd like one but that's too much money. My dad does custom fiberglass work so maybe I'll ask him to make me one. There's not much to them. Please let me know if you've found one at a reasonable price. I've tried the Strassburg sock and I felt no real obvious difference in my foot, but it seems like a good idea for stretching the PF. But as Linda said, it's very flimsy. It stretches during the night. Plus it pulls my toes up to the point of discomfort. Thanks, Beth in Tucson. bkane@artisoft.com

I last wrote here a month ago. I wasn't making much progress until about two weeks ago when I started using the Strassburg sock which I ordered through the internet. I saw instant and amazing results. The only problem is that the sock is not very sturdy and already has a little hole in it. With such good results, I am now looking to purchase a more expensive night splint. I had never heard of anyone else using them, so I was hesitant to try it. But I must say, I think it is really helping. Not much pain when I get up in the morning and less pain during the day too. I recently returned to the golf course. Hope this helps someone else.

It's time to update the list on my post-op progress. Sorry if anyone wrote to me individually and I didn't reply...I'll make up for it here. I got PF in my left foot a couple years ago from lots of extreme hiking (long distance and rough terrain). I also have Achilles tendinitis in that foot. I don't know whether to recommend surgery to anyone. Mine was different from everyone else's in that, although my podiatrist made the big cut (not EPF), he didn't do even a partial release of the PF. He scraped out cartilaginous scar tissue where the PF attaches to the heel, cut off the heel spur, removed a section of enlarged nerve, and I think made some cuts in line with the PF (not across it). Immediately post-op, I seemed to be healing faster than most people. But as we approached the 6-month post-op date, it was not progressing any more. Now I'm 9 months post-op. It feels like there's not enough fat pad directly under my heel bone now. I can't walk barefoot at all. This is a lot worse than pre-surgery. As far as PF pain goes, it's still there. I don't think there's been any improvement. I recently switched doctors due to an insurance change, and am now seeing an orthopedist. He wanted to try ANOTHER cortisone shot, so I let him. (I've now had a total of four.) But there was no change. I have succeeded in doing a couple 2-mile walks, wearing my hiking boots and orthotics, but feel sore afterward. My new dr. hasn't yet decided whether a second surgery might be called for. But he told me he's against EPF, and said if we do decide to operate again he'd cut my foot in the exact same place. Which kind of scares me, because I wonder if that might result in a buildup of scar tissue. Although my scar is very good -- very small and no adhesions. Has anyone on the list ever had two surgeries on the same foot??? What happened with that? Another item of note: I have two pairs of custom orthotics (total of $300 spent), and neither one works NEAR as well as my Birkenstocks. The Birks are amazing. I put them on and have INSTANT pain relief. Too bad they look so dorky. I feel embarrassed wearing them to work. I plan to contact the orthotic-maker and ask him to make them more like the Birk, especially the deep heel cup. I don't know if he's going to ask for more money for that, though. What a rip-off industry. I'll give the list an update after my next meeting with the doctor. Thanks very much for this forum, Beth Kane in Tucson bkane@artisoft.com

I am a 39 year old housewife. I have PF pain in both feet and have suffered with it for several years. I have done all the shots, orthodics, exercises, etc. I am having surgery(total release) on July 31, 1998 on my left foot. I'm excited at the thought of finally having less pain and not being kept awake at night with pain in my calves, ankles and feet. I have read the other entries and am hoping I can come back and be one of the success stories. If so, I will have surgery on the right foot as soon as I can handle it. Bye for now, I'll be back in a week and a half and fill you in.

hello to my fellow sufferers. I'm 22, and I obtained these wonderful spurs about 2 years ago, about the same time as my father. Nothing seems to help, I'm active and my job keeps me on my feet all day, and I'm a student, live off campus (walk to school), and excerise 4 times a week (aerobics, low impact). I'm usually okay until I start working a lot, then i can't even get up some mornings. My question is, in my quest for relief...has anyone ever tried acupuncture. I don't know if it would do any good at all, but I'm seeking any alternative solution, as surgery doesn't seem to be helping many people. Any comments or experiences welcome, and thanks for being here! Niki

i am Ace; sign in on me. https://jupitor.guestworld.tripod.lycos.com/wgb/wgbsign.dbm?owner=oface19

Hi everyone - Just thought I would give an update on how I'm progressing - I had the conventional surgery done on 1 foot 6 months ago (I have PF in both feet). I see my dr again in 2 days - it's been 3 months since I've seen him, and at that time he told me that I would feel much better in another 3 months - that it can take upwards of 12 - 18 months to heal. Unfortunately, I can't say that it feels any better now than it did 3 months ago. I still have pain when I first get up in the morning, and I still have pain if I'm on my feet alot during the day, and then sit and rest for a while. I can however, say that it does feel better than prior to the surgery. So, if this is as good as it gets, I would still have to say that it was worth it. I can't go barefoot for any length of time, because I am in agony at night if I indulge myself with that!! Will update after I see the surgeon. Sue

Having read the Surgery Guestbook now for quite a while, I realize that this, the SURGERY site is indeed, THE RIGHT PLACE to find out how people are doing AFTER they've had plantar fasciitis surgery. As we all can see, some of us are doing well and come out of a plantar fasciotomy surgery happy. Others among us are not doing well at all and are unhappy, debilitated, depressed, angry and saddened by the results. And some of us are even worse off now than before we had the surgery. I was thinking that we might be able to get an even better handle on the results of this type of surgery if people would speak to the particulars of their surgery in more detail: i.e., was it with a knife or with an endoscope; was it done by an orthopaedist or by a podiatrist; whether all the fascial bands were severed (medial and both lateral bands) or whether it was limited to cutting the medial band only; and perhaps, the name and/or institution of the doctor who performed the surgery, if people feel like mentioning it; and finally, more followup on where people are--not just in the immediate weeks and months after the surgery but down the road. I think this would help us and help others who are considering this surgery to better know what to expect. As I have said in previous posts, my worst problems have come AS A RESULT of the surgery. While plantar fasciitis was NO FUN to live with, the complications that have resulted from my surgery are FAR WORSE. It took time for these complications to develop but the scar tissue growth and nerve entrapment are a direct consequence of having had the surgery and having permanently altered my gait. I think people who are considering a surgery should be able to find out all they can about plantar fasciitis surgery BEFORE they have it. And for those of us who have had it, we can put our own surgical results in the context of the experience of others, with a better understanding of both short and long-term complications. And finally, since this foot problem can be so awful, I hope most of all that all of us can learn from each other and try to figure out how to deal better with whever situation we find ourselves in now AFTER having had it done.

I've just read about half of the comments posted and am sorry to report that I had the plantar fascia release surgery done 15 mos ago (4/97) on both feet at once> Surgery was performed with the scope by an extremely prestigious podiatrist. The surgery was NOT successful in the least. I cannot stress enough that noone should get talked into doing both feet at once. Prior to the surgery, I suffered with plantar fasciitis for several years and I am no better. My search for relief has taken me to 5 new doctors since the surgeon told me it was as good as it was going to get and he suggested going in for a "retry". That was the signal to look for another dr. In seeing 5 new dr's, I have been thru every treatment available, both prior to surgery and afterward, therapy, shots, anti-inflammatories, massage, manipulation, stretching, accupuncture, hundreds of different orthoticss and heel cups, etc. This has been a real bummer and as a result of the CONSTANT pain, two things have occurred: my activities are quite limited (almost NO walking) and therefore I have gained weight, which only antagonizes the problem. I am so sick of dr's, dr's, dr's and all the drugs, side effects and complications. Am REALLY frustrated and just wanted to get this off my (feet) chest.

I underwent a pf surgery in Jul of 97. well I'am glad to report that there is no pain in my heel, but I have had a nagging pain if the left forefoot side. I have returned to running but this pain has continued along with sorness on top outside of the foot. can anybody help with this problem

I had severe heel spurs 5 years ago and my Dr. recommened surgery after several injections and special shoe support. I lost 20 pounds and my heel spurs went away. 5 years later I have gained the weight back and the heel spurs are back!!!!! Interesting experience. Hope it helps someone else. I am losing those 20lbs because NO goody is worth this pain!!!!

I had been suffering with the pain from heel spurs in both feet for about 10 months before my Dr. and I decided to do the surgery. Did all the shots, physical therapy, orthotics, heel cups, you name I did it. Had my first surgery on 4/3/98 and was back to work the following week. I was so happy with the results that we scheduled the second surgery for 5/15/98. Went back to work after two weeks. Did have more pain after the second surgery. Am still using one crutch, mainly in the morning when I get up. Having pain in my right foot which was the second surgery. The left foot, not as much pain but it has also been three months since that surgery. Today when I went to see my Dr. he gave me a foot walker to wear on my right foot, and the minute I put it on, I was complete pain free. He advised to wear it for a couple of weeks and will advise after that time if I still need to wear it. I never thought it was going to be this bad, but I do know that I feel much better after having the surgery than I did before and I am hoping with time, I will be pain free. Thinking positive really helps.

Well, it's been a while since I posted. I'm wearing my new orthotics for about 2/3 of each day. I take them off in the evening when I get home from work and don't often put them on again. This seems to be about the right mix of time to wear them /not wear them per day. They do help. However, I continue to build new scar tissue--it seems like there's more each week. The scar tissue is building up from the site of the surgical incision, laterally and into the arch area as well. Not only can you feel it. You can actually see it. As a result, I've got a lot of lumpiness in my foot and it affects my gait. And there's pressure on a nerve that runs lengthwise along the outside side of the foot. I'm trying to hang in there with the orthotics. But unfortunately, I'm having to reduce my activity level. For readers who may have missed my earlier posts, my plantar fasciotomy surgery was 9 years ago. But it has been basically in the last 12 months that the scar tissue build-up has developed so rapidly and become a major problem. I'm always interested in swapping stories and in sharing treatment ideas and coping strategies. Regards, JIM

I have plantar fascia release surgery with a scope on March 6. I have followed the doctor's orders to a T. So far though, I have found very little relief. As soon as I started walking again, the inflammation returned in the same area (where the plantar fascia connects, at the bottom of the heel). The doctor looked at it and called it a "residual." (whatever that is). I am back in physical therapy now. Am doing stretches 5-6 times a day and have found that I cannot wear running or walking shoes OF ANY KIND. The only shoes I can wear are Mephisto's because they give me enough support. So I have two pair. VERY EXPENSIVE. For the past two weeks I have started 15 minutes a day of stationary bicycling. I am no longer taking any anti-inflammatories. They didn't really even help. I am also started walking outside again. The first day I tried it for 15 minutes and my foot was inflamed and in pain the rest of the day. So my p.t. said start slower, 5 minutes walking and then do the bicycling. After two weeks I am noticing a big difference. After more than two years of this problem, I hope I am on the road to pain free walking. I think the tendency is, after the surgery, to go easy on the foot for so long. But now I have to start building up those muscles again and you have to work at it very slowly and deliberately. I hope this has been of some assistance and encouragement to someone else.

I have read a few entries and thought I would give my input. I was diagnosed with heel spurs in both heels 1 1/2 years ago and after xrays, my dr asked how I got from my bed to the shower in the mornings, and I said very slowly and painfully. He showed me why. My right heel was much worse than the left so we started out with shots, then medications, then more shots, then PT, then another shot, and finally surgery. I am in my mid 20's so surger was quite a big step for me. I am happy to report that my surgery was 13 months ago and my right foot is doing great. I have a small incision on the inside of my right heel, and I thought I'd never get back to myself again, but the numbness did go away, though took about 11 months total. I was walking with assistance for about a month. Very painful at first, but each time got a little better. Now my left heel has gotten worse so I go back to Dr on Tuesday, wish me luck. I would be more than happy to answer anyone's questions or concerns about surgery or process leading up to. I think it was definitely well worth it! Let me know. Thanks!!

I have read a few entries and thought I would give my input. I was diagnosed with heel spurs in both heels 1 1/2 years ago and after xrays, my dr asked how I got from my bed to the shower in the mornings, and I said very slowly and painfully. He showed me why. My right heel was much worse than the left so we started out with shots, then medications, then more shots, then PT, then another shot, and finally surgery. I am in my mid 20's so surger was quite a big step for me. I am happy to report that my surgery was 13 months ago and my right foot is doing great. I have a small incision on the inside of my right heel, and I thought I'd never get back to myself again, but the numbness did go away, though took about 11 months total. I was walking with assistance for about a month. Very painful at first, but each time got a little better. Now my left heel has gotten worse so I go back to Dr on Tuesday, wish me luck. I would be more than happy to answer anyone's questions or concerns about surgery or process leading up to. I think it was definitely well worth it! Let me know. Thanks!!

I have suffered with PF for 3 years now. For the first two years the custom orthotics helped a lot. Then in October the pain in the right heal came back with a vengeance! I tried Pt 3x a week for 2 hours, cortisone shots, calcium supplements, everything I could think of and finally saw an ortho surgeon instead of the usual podiatrist. He rec. plantar release and also the removal of a Morton Neuroma by the toes. So I had two incisions and a lot of pain, but it is starting to get better. This surgery was performed on May 18, 1998. I hear full recovery takes a long time and since I'm very into homepathy I take 6c Graphites (I pellet in 4oz of water) 2 sips a day, to reduce scar buildup. Before the surgery i was practically crippled, so anything was worth a try to me. I'm still in the boot (except for sandals) most of the time. It was very painful and debilitating the first week, so get help if you have young kids! Good Luck!

These are all horror stories. I have sever bilateral PF and am absolutely disgusted that there is apparently nothing out there that can help. I am wasting hundreds of dollars and getting nowhere. Does anybody have the answer to this outrageous problem?

This is a follow up to my posting from April 16. After I first had the surgery I was beginning to wonder if it was worth it. I was still walking with pain and I had a hard time just walking down the street or thru the grocery store. But i am happy to report that in the last 3 months since my surgery I am almost back to normal. I have slowly been able to return to my walking program and I am almost back up to my 3 miles a day and I am almost pain free. I do still have a few bad days now and then but the good definitely outweighs the bad but my doctor told me this was to be expected. Having the EPF was definitely worth it. My doctor has been great. Gave me lots of stretching exercises and told me what to expect along the way. so nice to be able to walk pain free again. I would definitely recommend having the surgery if all other options have failed.

i am a mailman and have been suferring from bone spurs and plantar fascitis for 4 years. i have had straping,medicine,cortizone and phsical therapy and finally decided to have plantar fasciotomy and bone spur removal on may 13,1998.been on crutches for 3 1/2 weeks and finally on june4 1998 i put my foot down with partial weight,very sore.on june 7,1998 i began to walk without crutches and also began therapy. very sore to walk but getting better. on june 8,1998 i walked 3/4 around track with pain. on june 9,1998 stood a long time without crutches and did lawn still pain but doing more each day and getting better.last week i said i would never have right foot done but this week i am thinking diffrent. i am thinking very positive about surgery and believe time will heal and also hard work

Hi! I just had a different kind of surgery for planters. I went to a sports' orthopedic surgeon and he did a tendon graft to my planters tendon with another tendon. I had surgery April 28th and am still on crutches and will be in a walking air cast for 2 more months. I get off crutches in one more week. It is still really sore and swelling from two much walking on crutches I think, but will know more on June 15. Dr. says the other tendon will take some of the stress of off my bad one. I have had this problem for 14 months--I am in my fifties, am flat footed and carried my 32 pound granddaughter too much! All contributing factors. Will write again after I see the doctor.

The pain in my left heel started almost 6 years ago while I was pregnant with my second child. It got progressively worse until I finally realized in November 97 that this was not part of the normal aging process (I'm only 38). My doctor started with Naprosyn. It helped at first, but by Jan 98 the pain was unbearable. I was referred to a podiatrist who gave me a steriod injection in March 98. A few days later, the pain returned. I returned in April 98 for another injection. This time, the doctor ordered orthotics, physical therapy, and Daypro. The physical therapy performed Ionto therapy every other day, calf stretching, and ice packs. I am still suffering. The doctor did mention last month that we may have to resort to surgery. I go back to see him June 12th and I don't know what he'll suggest at this point. I'd like to hear from others about their surgical experience because I'm concerned that I might be making a big mistake. My biggest concern is the impact on my job. I have been in the Navy for the last 16 years and I have been assigned to an aircraft carrier since Sept 97. I walk on steel decks, have to wear steel-toed boots (which are pretty comfortable), I have to stand for prolonged periods of time, do physical training 4 times a week and I walk alot. My assignment would come to a screeching halt if the recuperation period exceeds 3-5 weeks and I could not return to the ship while on crutches. If I encounter long-term surgical complications my carrer would also be in jeopardy. I don't know if putting the surgery off until I retire in 4 years is an option. I'd love to hear suggestions, comments or options.

I have the type of PF that does not have morning pain. It started five years ago and have gotten worse every year. Typically my feet have felt best first thing in the morning and got worst as the day went on. To date I am to the point that I have arch and fore foot pain whenever I am on them. Here's what I'm trying Birks Glucosamine and chondroitin Calcium and Mag. Very limited streaching because of Achillie tendinitus Icing five time a day Ice and hot therpy Very, very limited activity. Here's what I have tried Two MRI's Ultrasonics Five sets of orthodics ENG test. Blood test for everything Accupuncture Massage Four Podiatrist. PF release in December of 97 on one foot Two sets of xrays One round of NSAID Looking for options from this point if you have similar symptoms and have found some relief, I would really like to hear from you. I'm running out of ideas and starting to get discouraged. Thanks John M

I've had PF for a year and a half. I've been through a years worth of treatment. The treatments included icing stretching, anti-inflammatories, heel pads, arch supports, night splints, cortisone shots (3), and ultrasound. None of them worked so I finally had surgery which consisted of a partial release of the tendon and removal of the bone spur. I was walking without crutches that day. I went back to work 3 days after the surgery (My job involves sitting and staring at a computer all day.) 2 weeks after the surgery the stitches were removed and I was put into tennis shoes. It is now a month after surgery and the only problems I am having pain in the metatarsal region of my foot. This is mostly due to overuse of the foot. An icepack and a little rest takes care of the problem. The other thing I have noticed is that my foot is a little longer due to the partial release of the tendon. I don't mind this due to the fact that it used to be a little smaller than the left foot and now it's the same size as the left foot. My hope (and worry!) is that it won't affect my walking ability in the distant future. Of course reading some of these entries hasn't really given me much to hope for. Everything seems to be good now so I guess I'll just hope for the best.

I had an EPF (partial release) done on my left foot in November 97 and on the right foot in January 98. Although both feet are far better than before the surgery, I still have a long way to go. My left foot PF ligament is still tight, so my podiatrist recently gave methylprednisolone (steroids) for a week. My foot felt good that week, but went back to being painful after the medication ended. Next I will get ultrasound heating from a physical therapists in about a week. If that fails, we will refit the orthotic (arch support) in the left shoe. We did some weird looking probing device, and are confident there is no pinched nerve. Next will be the MRI before a radical (full release) plantar fasciotomy is done in August 98. Remember: one day at a time.

I had release done on left foot in Sept. 97 after suffering for 2 years. Tried all conventional methods, learned cortisone shots are bad for heel as they break down fatty tissue which absorbs shock. Been really happy with pain free heel however ankles and legs ached majorly as I adapted to new walk. I had started walking toe-heel for about a year as both feet were inflamed. After surgery I didn't realize how immobile I would be for first month. Basically i was on couch with foot allivated and hopped around on crutches. I could have had home support to prepare meals, do laundry, you know activities of daily living stuff, but chose to be indepent. Now after going through it I would get support. Anyways was able to start walking normally 3 months after surgery. Jan 98 was the worst month for ankle and leg aching. Started taking tylonel 3 for pain relief, wasn't sleeping at all. Come Mar 98 my nights became my own again, aching reduced to minimal. My scar is really thick and went to see physiotherapist who has been taping my scar to try and stretch it. Has been very successful. Also started Vit. E orally and rubbing it on my scar every day.Amazing results. My original pain in left foot is gone but my ankles are still week. Once I can tolerate walking again I am thinking of having other foot done. I so much want to be able-bodied again and get back to physical activities. I still have trouble shopping without becoming tired, but I am able to walk on paths and trails. I was so pleased a few weeks ago went to West Coast and walked a 2 km. boardwalk which ended at a natural hot spring. Rested for 4 hours and walked back again. This is a break through for me!Past recreational activity has been backpacking in mountains carrying up to 35 lbs. I'm not sure if I'll ever be able to do this again but I keep trying. I am attending deep water aquasize 2x week which has been positive in my feeling more physically fit, plus I have social stimulation. I injured myself while at work in July 95. Up to this point W.C.B. had been supportive but now they are saying if after 6 months from surgery I am not better than it wasn't successful. I am starting to gather info for them that will show I am progressing accordingly.They want to retrain me and I want to be able-bodied to do the job I have already been trained to do - Home Support personal care. They have refused any more treatment. Anyone who might be able to suggest anything regarding support of post-op and how long it took for their recovery would help. Thanks for listening, it's so nice to know I'm not the only one. I know some of my friends and family are getting tired of listening to me.

I am 6 wks post op with a conventional PF release. I will get to go to a shoe from a cam boot walker on Friday. I have very little pain while walking. Some soreness and stiffness first thing in the morning, but not bad if I remember to stretch before getting up. I will post again after getting back to a shoe for a while.

i forgot to add to my post that Carl Lewis the world class runner had this surgery and procedure and continued on with his career as a runner. one of the docs i am talking with trained under the dr that developed this procedure who seems tho be the guru of gurus on PF (think he is in houston)

i have had PF for 4 years.tried all the options expcept shots. i have seen to poditrist and 2 orthopedic surgeons both with fellowships in foot and ankle surgery. one poditrist wanted to do surgery and use a scope. the other wanted to do a traditional partial release. i asked him about his success rate and he said 80-85%. he further said in some of those cases he may go back and do a full release (ugh)! one of the orthos at a large teaching hospital says she is very selective on who she will operate on and then only when they have religiously followed her routine of stretching,ice,blah blah. she said she had a 100% success rate.both of the orthos use the same procedure which they call a fasciaotomy but seems different from most of the post i am reading. neither of these doctors release the fascia! they remove a triangular shape wedge of fascia just forward of the heel that runs over a nerve that crosses the width of the heel at that point. they say the foot stability is maintained after surgery which seems from some of the post has caused problems down the road. the surgery is outpatient 30 minutes and you walk out in a wooden shoe. recovery seems to be in the range of 3 weeks and then into a tennis shoe. not much weight bearing during that time. i will probably opt for this surgery which i had scheduled last week but had to cancell due to a family illness. have any of you had this procedure. the hospital in my city that does it is huge with a large ortho staff.

i am scheduled of PF surgery soon and this board sure gives you a lot to think about. i have definitely decided to have the open procedure. have had pf for 4 years which was brought on by running and not recognizing what i had. chronic now. my pain is more generalized although recently it has become worse just forward of the heel. not terribly painful when i first get up but gets worse as i continue to stand. the ortho i have been seeing (has a fellowship in foot and ankle surgery) says he does not release the fascia but takes a diamond shape wedge out of it (about 3/4 ") over a nerve that runs accross the heel. has anyone heard of this procedure. of course taking a small section of fascia out near the heal will change the dynamics of how the fasca pulls? the poditrist would do just the traditional fascia release?

I had my EPF on February 26, the surgery went well, and they had me walking on my foot right after surgery. I wore a surgical shoe for the first 4 days after surgery and was back in my tennis shoe 5 days after the surgery. Stiches were taken out 1 1/2 weeks post op. I was able to return to work, working half days 2 weeks after the surgery. My problem is that I still have quite a bit of soreness in my foot but the pain is not in my heel anymore it starts at the incision on the outside of my foot foot and runs up almost to my little toe and when i put pressure on my foot it feels like like i am standing on something, my Dr said this is where they put the tube thru for the camera and that it is not uncommon.has anyone else experienced this and if so how long does it take for this to disappear as it is very annoying sensation, also i was used to walking 3 miles a day now i am lucky if i can walk 3 blocks without having pain. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!

I am 6 weeks post-op (had both feet done at once) and am getting really discouraged. I can walk for very short periods of time before I have to rest and the pain is still worse than it was pre-surgery. I do very little non-essential walking at this point, which is extremely frustrating since walking and hiking are my main forms of exercise. Some days I'm more patient than others, but today I'm wondering: is this as good as it gets?!

I'm now 3 weeks post-op PF partial release and got the stitches out today and can now put some weight on the foot as I am able. I should be able to ditch the crutches by next week. I will be in the cam boot for 3 weeks and then a real shoe. So far, so good. The foot is tender with weight bearing, but not unbearable. He said I can't hurt the foot, however, the foot can hurt me, so not to push it.

I am 2 weeks post op with open PF release. I have had no pain from the surgery. Pain from the crutches, yes. I was on bed rest for a week and am now non-weight bearing for another week, a total of 3. Then I can go back to work, thank goodness. I am totally amazed at the lack of pain. My doc, a podiatrist did tell me the worst part would be beign patient and waiting to walk on it. He feels the longer you can stay off of it and keep it up, the less scar tissue will form and the better recovery will be. So far, I'd have to agree. If anyone wants his name, let me know. We're in Iowa. I will continue to post my progress. Hopefully, it will continue to be this smooth. I'm sure I will have some pain when I walk on it, but hopefully, not too much. LYN

About 6 yrs. ago I had the platar release surgery, it was done arthoroscopic(sp ?) Have never had so much pain. My problem is now a have this awful burning, and I read the neuropathy bulletin board, and it sounds like that is what I now have. Because of the terrible burning, it makes me think that I have neuropathy. If anyone that has had surgery for the plantar fascitis and ended up with burning feet, please let me know. It seems that nowadays we are on our own, if we need information. Thanks, Nancy

I live in Red Bluff, California. Two years ago I had the traditional surgery doen onmyleft foot. It was terrible. Extreme pain after surgery, including the ankle. I tried everything after. The surgeon actually put a cortisone shot thru the incision. I almost passed-out. Then 500.00 Shoes with orthotics etc. and this was after the surgery. Tehn I started sdoing the stretching exercises and two yeras later my Left foot is 99% but pain free. Now for my problem. My Right foot now has the same exact pain. i am so afraid of the traditional surgery. I cannot aford to be off work for weeks. I have been trying the med's, with stretching and of course wearing good shoes. I have a high arch and feel that is part of the problem. i have been wearing a low show with no heel and even though they were comfortable I feel this has cause the Plantar Fascia to be inflamed and now it won't stop. Anyone who has had the Endoscopic PF please let me know what to expect realistically. The report says you can walk the next day. Previousely I couldn't put ANY weight on my foot for weeks. I am considering the surgey now. How long of a recovery time did you have. I really apprecaite all responses. Thanks

I am 5mos. post-op. Wish I had never done this. Have same pain in the pf PLUS horrible ankle pain and lumps(scar tissue) from surgery. Othopod did the surgery. Do not know what to do next. Have I ruined myself forever? Can't wear previous orthotics. I am a flight attendant and can go to any dr. anywhere if someone has a recommendation. Please help.

I had bilateral endoscopic fasciotomies on 2/27/98. I'm able to bear weight and walk a little with crutches at this point, which is a great improvment over crawling around the house the first few days. In the last two days I've noticed numbness in some of my toes and the upper part of one foot. The Dr said no nerves were cut or damaged during the surgery, but I'm concerned about whether this will be a short or long-term condition. Anyone else have this experience?

I had bilateral endoscopic fasciotomies on 2/27/98. I'm able to bear weight and walk a little with crutches at this point, which is a great improvment over crawling around the house the first few days. In the last two days I've noticed numbness in some of my toes and the upper part of one foot. The Dr said no nerves were cut or damaged during the surgery, but I'm concerned about whether this will be a short or long-term condition. Anyone else have this experience?

Here's an update on my situation -- I had conventional PF surgery in October. The dr. didn't cut the PF but he cleared out extra cartilage where the PF attaches, removed heel spurs and also cut out an inflamed nerve section. ANYWAY, four months later I can't walk more than a mile a day yet, and I get quite sore from doing that. I've been trying every kind of shoe/insole combination you can imagine. The most comfortable footwear situation I've found yet is my new Vasque Skywalk hiking boots, with soft insoles added. I'm starting to tolerate some arch support now, and can wear Natural Sport clogs. I can wear Birkenstocks some, but they get to hurting. My running shoes still cause some pain. I bought men's Sauconys and added lots of insoles. I'm surprised they're not as comfortable as the hiking boots. Maybe it has something to do with how much the sole flexes. I also got Ariat riding boots for my birthday but I'm not impressed with those. I'm sure they'll be fine when I'm healed but right now they're tough on me. First thing I had to do was get rid of the insole that came with them, and that's supposed to be the best thing about Ariats. Didn't work for this foot, although my good foot likes it. Well, feel free to write me if you want to ask any questions. One thing I've learned from this site is that this PF experience is incredibly different for everyone; and it's also amazing how differently each dr. treats it. That's scary (makes you wonder if they know what they're doing). Seems like everyone was put on crutches but me. I was weight-bearing the day of the operation! However, my PF wasn't actually cut. I'll let you know what happens the first time I try to go ice skating (I'm a former hockey player). Beth (former and future hiker) in Tucson: bkane@artisoft.com

Hello from an Aussie marathon runner who had radical fasciotomy 10 days ago. Unfortunately I didn't know of this site befoore my operation. I'd like to hear from anybody who has had this operation and returned to long distance running. How long did recovery take? Any advice on recovery procedures and timeframes would be much appreciated.

I must have had the worst doctor in the world release my plantar fascia. It's been almost 3 years and I'm just now beginning to feel some relief. I spent over $1,000 on a special home TENS unit and I've had to learn how to wrap my own feet. Nowadays I only have to wrap my feet when I dance. I also have to soak them regularly and exercise them as much as possible. Anything other than a gym shoe is almost impossible.

In two weeks I will have a partial plantar fasciial release. I can't wait. I have the largest spur my doctor has ever seen and the tendon is visible on x-ray which means it is very inflammed. I will be on bed rest for one week with my foot elevated higher than my heart, and on non-weight bearing for 3 weeks. The explaination given was that when the tendon is partially cut, the foot is kept at 90 degrees and allowed to heal. It forms a fibrous connection where the tendon is cut and thereby lengthens the tendon. I know someone who had it done by my doctor who followed his instructions to the letter and has done exceedingly well. She has no pain. I will be a good patient and do as he says. Even tho I will be a raving lunatic after only two days of daytime talk shows!!! Once I am up, I will post.