Plantar Fasciitis Procedures
Plantar Fasciitis Procedures – The plantar fascia is strong tissue that stretches from the heel bone (calcaneum) to the ball of the foot. It acts like the string of a bow to preserve the foot’s arch. Due to stresses caused by jumping, running on hard surfaces with thin soled shoes, or even prolonged standing, the fascia at its attachment to the heel bone can become inflamed and painful.
This is called a plantar fasciitis. The irritation and inflammation can lead to an outgrowth of bone from the heel bone into the fascia. This is called a heel spur. Some surgeons believe that the heel spur is not connected to the pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
In most patients treatment involves anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone injections and the use of padding or special foot supports. If these treatments fail, surgery may be another option. The surgeon frees the plantar fascia and slides it along from the attachment to the heel. The spur is usually also removed.
Dr Peter Smith, Milnerton Medi-Clinic, Cape Town
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