When it comes to plantar fasciitis, everyone has a story. And while each person’s story is unique, the numerous forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit threads devoted to plantar fasciitis are evidence of how helpful it can be to share and learn from other people’s experiences with this painful condition. It’s one thing to scan through a list of symptoms and treatment options on a medical website–and quite another to hear about someone’s real, lived experience.
One of the biggest decisions that sufferers of chronic plantar fasciitis face is whether or not to have surgery. And while it just may be the most talked-about topic in the world of plantar fasciitis, the cost, the potential complications, and the recovery process for plantar fasciitis surgery can still feel like big unknowns.
Sarah, who has suffered from plantar fasciitis for more than two years, has generously offered to share the details of her story with our audience. In our interview, we talked about her decision to have heel pain surgery, her expectations, the recovery process, the costs involved, and how she’s doing now, post-surgery. Sarah underwent plantar fascia release surgery as well as tarsal tunnel surgery for both feet, with one year between surgery on each foot.
Exhausting Non-Surgical Options for Heel Pain
Heel That Pain: What treatments did you try prior to making the decision to have tarsal tunnel and plantar fascia release surgery?
Sarah: I started having problems with my feet while training for a marathon (I can pretty much pinpoint when it happened, from increasing my mileage too quickly). The pain quickly escalated and I tried the following things:
First, I went to two different podiatrists and finally ended up at an orthopedist for a third opinion prior to my surgeries. I started with the most conventional/most conservative treatments first; rest, ice, stretching, and over-the-counter pain meds. After a visit to my podiatrist, I also got a prescription for anti-inflammatories.
I tried over-the-counter orthotics, cortisone shots, heel cups, LOTS of different shoes (so expensive!), chiropractic treatments, massage, night splints, and a wrap/taping treatment that the second podiatrist recommended. The first podiatrist took x-rays to confirm I didn’t have a bone spur or stress fracture. At this point, I had been suffering with the pain of plantar fasciitis for almost 9 months. It was absolutely all-consuming in my life. I know others can attest to the same experience. You are pretty much willing to try anything. My first podiatrist had said that if none of the conservative treatments helped, I would most likely need to consider surgery.
The orthopaedic surgeon who ultimately performed my surgery did an MRI and confirmed that I not only had plantar fasciitis, but also tarsal tunnel syndrome. Essentially, there was scar tissue wrapped around the nerve in my foot, which was causing the extreme pain I was experiencing. I had gone from running a marathon (I did complete it, by the way!) to not being able to walk around a grocery store. My orthopedist confirmed what the podiatrists had said. I could try physical therapy, but after so little success with conservative treatments, I was really just putting off the inevitable: surgery.
Facing Fears About Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
Heel That Pain: What concerns did you have about surgery–and how did you address those concerns?
Sarah: I was really concerned that I would have a LOT of pain post-surgery–that I would never feel “normal” again. I love to work out, and I was really concerned that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy those activities again for a very long time. When I looked online to research other people’s experiences, all I could find were the negative stories, the horror stories about failed surgeries. It was pretty disheartening to say the least. I finally did meet one person who had had actually had the surgery by my same doctor. She was amazing. Very active, close to my age, and the surgery really hadn’t slowed her down. That helped put my mind at ease. I scheduled my first surgery, on my left foot, in 2016.
Choosing the Right Doctor
Heel That Pain: What role did your relationship with your doctor play in this surgery? Pretty minimal, or significant?
Sarah: It was very significant. The orthopaedic surgeon I chose is an active person–he’s younger and a runner, and I felt like he really “got” me and respected my fears. He understood what my goals with the surgery were, took the time to talk to me about outcomes and realistic expectations, and I trusted him completely. He performed my first surgery in 2016, and I was so happy with the process. For my second surgery on my right foot, he was in the middle of moving to a new practice, and I had to wait a couple of months to get in to see him. I was in pain, and I could have seen someone else, but I opted to wait for him because I trusted him.
When I was in the process of choosing a doctor for surgery, I ultimately decided that I really wanted to have an orthopaedic surgeon who specialized in foot/ankle (rather than a podiatrist) perform the surgery. I really valued the additional specialization and expertise. That said, I think a big part of choosing a surgeon is a matter of trust. For me, an orthopaedic surgeon was the right decision, but others might have a different experience.
Post-Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Photo
Heel Pain Surgery and Recovery
Heel That Pain: Can you tell us about the type of surgery you had?
Sarah: I had surgery twice, once on each foot (tarsal tunnel and plantar fascia release). After I developed the first case from marathon training, I had surgery in 2016. When I was completely healed and starting to walk/jog a little again, I got plantar fasciitis in the other foot. That was incredibly depressing! I suspect that the other foot was doing double-duty for a long time supporting the other one, and it finally had enough 🙂 Luckily, I don’t anticipate any further surgeries. My doctor told me that out of the hundreds of surgeries he’s done though, he’s only had to redo two and in both instances they were patients who had other health concerns/situations that impacted the surgical success.
My doctor recommended a slightly variation from the typical way this surgery is usually performed. He recommended an open (as opposed to laparoscopic) surgery to assess the scope of the problem. He then released my plantar fascia, and removed approximately a one-centimeter cube of tissue, which created a tunnel for the nerve to pass through. I would advise someone interested in this particular variation of plantar fascia surgery to ask around. My doctor also performed the surgery through an incision in the side of the foot, below the ankle. This helped with the healing process.
Heel That Pain: What was recovery like? Was it easier or more difficult than you expected?
Sarah: Honestly, recovery was SO much easier than I expected. I’m amazed after all the horror stories I read, but both times I had zero surgery pain. The hospital sent me home with a prescription for pain meds, and I’ve never even used it. Just a couple Tylenol here and there for mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. In other words, pain wise, surgery was a piece of cake.
The hardest part, for me, during both recoveries, was the crutches. Crutching around is HARD WORK! If you have a job that will allow you to work from home, I’d really recommend you take advantage of it at this time.
The first two weeks I spent wrapped up in an ace bandage and a surgical shoe. I was allowed to do light toe touches while crutching. After two weeks, I was placed in a walking boot. I was told to stay in that walking boot until I felt like I could transition to a shoe. This timing would be different for every individual. After my first surgery on my left foot, it took me about 2-3 weeks. The second time, I was in a shoe in a week. Something to be aware of is that you tend to lose some flexibility in your foot/ankle/knee because of the position of your foot in the surgical shoe and boot. Getting that strength back takes some time.
Another difficult aspect of recovery, for me, was psychological. It was scary to think that I might start feeling the pain from plantar fasciitis again post-surgery. Trusting myself to walk without pain, as I began to recover, was a leap of faith. It was also difficult having to ask people to get me stuff or help me. I’m a pretty independent person, and it was hard to be so reliant on other people while I was recovering.
Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Recovery
Post-Surgery Results
Heel That Pain: How long did it take for you to feel normal again after surgery?
Sarah: I really had no idea what to expect from the surgery recovery, or how long it would take for me to feel normal again. Stories online made it sound like I would be on bed rest for months, unable to do anything. My doctor made it sound like a breeze (He told me it would be a couple of weeks in an ace bandage, then I’d be walking around).
My experience was honestly somewhere in the middle. On my left foot, it took about 6 months before I was feeling truly “normal” again. (Meaning I could throw on sneakers, go for a walk and not feel any type of pain). On my other foot, the one I just had done in June 2017, I’m already there. So two months, and I’m back in business! I also learned from my first surgery and didn’t wait as long to take action and commit to surgery. I think that was key. I didn’t cause as much damage limping around that time.
Heel That Pain: Are there any complications from surgery that you’re still dealing with? How do you continue to keep your feet and fascia healthy?
Sarah: The only thing I really notice now is that my feet do tend to feel “achy” sometimes. Usually it’s first thing in the morning, or if I’ve been on them too long. It’s not pain, but it’s more like it takes my body more time to warm up. I listen to my body and take it easy when that happens, do I some stretches, etc. I also realize this could be happening because I’m getting older, too. 🙂
I stretch daily now, mainly calf and soleus stretches. I still use orthotics in my running shoes, and I make sure to wear good shoes with support. I also massage and use a roller ball on occasion. Staying active, walking, and working out seem to help too. I did physical therapy after the first surgery, but not the second one. Building up the strength and flexibility by simply using your feet as you can is really helpful.
Pain Relief from Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
Heel That Pain: If you had to quantify it, how much did the surgery help, pain-wise?
Sarah: Everyone will have a different experience. But for me, the pain is gone. And I mean 100%! Even right after the surgery, and during recovery, I could tell that the PF pain was GONE. It’s amazing.
Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Cost
Heel That Pain: Can you tell us about costs?
Sarah: My insurance covered my surgery completely the first time, since i had already met the deductible that year. I paid a couple of copays for office visits, and that was it. The second time, I had to pay a small portion since my deductible hadn’t been met. It was close to $200. This isn’t a cosmetic procedure, so the insurance companies will typically cover a significant percentage. Without insurance, or with a different type of insurance, things would obviously be difference.
A Few More Words of Advice
Heel That Pain: Is there anything you wish you had known prior to surgery? And what advice do you have for others who are considering plantar fasciitis surgery or tarsal tunnel surgery?
Sarah: I put off having the surgery the first time around because of my fear. I wish I’d had the first one sooner! Honestly, compared to the chronic, unaddressed pain of plantar fasciitis, the surgery was nothing.
My biggest recommendation is to find a REALLY good doctor, someone you trust, who has a good track record doing the surgery you need and specializes in it. It truly makes all the difference. Also, don’t be afraid. If you’ve given conservative treatments a true effort for months on end and your heel pain is to the point where it’s now a chronic condition, you can either feel the same in 6 months, feel worse, or give the surgery a try and potentially get a lot of relief.
Just keep in mind, while planning for your surgery, that you’ll likely be on crutches and a boot for a few weeks. The other foot will also be working harder–more pressure, more impact, and supporting you more. Keep wearing a good supportive shoe and orthotics on that other foot.
Share Your Story!
Do you have a story to share about surgery for plantar fasciitis? We’d love to hear about your experience and advice for others who are considering this step. Share below in the comments or email us at [email protected]!
I have the same story before surgery, 15 months with PF. My question; How did you find this great doctor? Thanks for sharing your story
Yes, how did you go about finding the right surgeon. I’m going on 27 months of burning bilateral feet pain along with the plantar fasciitis symptoms. I’ve endured countless injections, PT, boots—— you know the deal. I’ve had 5 PRP treatments at 1500 bucks a pop.
I’ve had it. I very rarely can do more then 2 isles in the supermarket-then i’m On the couch for days. MRI on Sunday. Had mri’s 2 years ago and got 2 different opinion from 2 diff surgeons. Ortho has been doing my PRP injections.
Hoping for confirmed diagnosis on MRI, please tell me there is a cure for this. Wheelchair, crutches, you name it. I’m so done…
i did PRP in my right foot twice dint work. i am going for my second surgery on my right foot for PF. Kaiser did the 1st one my right foot, left foot was done back in 2005 and is perfect i am going back to fix my right foot with my first Dr Michael Zaft in thousand Oaks Ca, hope this helps.
Like Sarah I have had success with the surgery. My surgeon was referred to me by another sports orthopedic surgeon.
Pain is very minimal after the surgery. Biggest complaint is not being able to put weight on my foot for 2-3 weeks. It’s inconvenient with work, showering, daily life activities…you definitely need some assistance. Knee scooter works well. I had a full release 5 days ago and at the point where I’m getting itchy to be back on two feet and then rehabbing to resume normal activities and sports. I’m a 54 year old active guy and my advice would be to not put off the surgery if your systems aren’t improving with non-operative treatments. I’m not sure I could be hopping around on one foot if I were 60 years old and having the surgery. I had a partial release when I was in my early 30s but developed scar tissue as I got older so that’s why decided on a full release at this point. I also have extremely high arches which contributed to my issue. First surgery relieved pain for over 20 years.
I would like to know how you found your doctor also. Where are you located?
Thank you for this info! I think I just need to do the surgery!!
I’m glad to hear your story, I’ve been having the same problem with pf and my doctor decided to do the surgery which I’m a bit concerned about it but yours gives me some confidence to do it
I just had my surgery (Gastroc Slide) last October and it was a disaster.
Not only my PF pain has increased, but I lost complete sensation on the right side of my right foot. I saw my doctor again today and he had little to none to say. I left the office very depressed. I’m not sure at this point if other Ortho. Doctor would see me!!
I am sorry for you . Does it worse than before surgery ? I am also a PF . I am afraid of surgery . Why there is no the best treatment for us in 21 century ?
Me too so depressed and in worse pain I’ve makes it feel worse it’s been 10 weeks I don’t even want to get off the couch so aggrevated
Don’t give up! You have to be your own advocate unfortunately. Maybe this doctor screwed up. Well it needs to be fixed! I would definitely see a foot/ankle specialist within your healthcare group and if he is not on your side about the surgery maybe not being done correctly or differently then go through another system. If I have any orthopedic issues at all I go to the same doctors that treat our major sports teams. I figure they must be good if they’re entrusted with pros care. I’ve had great surgical experiences just now thinking about the PF surgery. I’m scared of recovery too since I just had foot surgery in July to remove a broken and apparently unnecessary bone. I’m one to usually go for the treatment that just takes care of things instead of trying this and that.
Stay off it completely for at least a month just ice it .I did that seven years ago and it stayed away for seven years.reagervated it and decided to get the surgery don’t do it.you will never be the same.bigest mistake of my life. In pane every day.not just my heal but the whole foot burning like it’s on 🔥 now on nerve medicine 😠
Omg, My story is a match of yours. Been 5 months doing therapy pls let this have a happy ending.
I had the PF surgery December 2017….2 months and 1 week later, I’m still in pain and no relief whatsoever. My doctor said it’s one of the worst PF cases he’s seen. I’m a math teacher and the pain/aches affect me daily. I’m not allowed Motrin or anti-inflammatories bc of the stem cells they injected in the surgery. Tylenol does NOTHING. I use my scooter at the end of the day so I can get around my classroom to help students. Going to see doctor tomorrow to express my concerns. He told me to expect 3 months for the heel to heal. Best of luck to all of you. I also have PF in my right heel. Right heel is next. The surgery was not bad at all…..highly recommend it because it helps in most cases just not mine so far.
I had a plantar fasciotomy on December 28, 2017. It has been the WORST decision I have ever made! I do not recommend it to anyone!
I had been having terrible pain in my heel since the fall of 2016 and some minor plantar fasciitis when first standing out of bed in the morning or after being seated for a long period of time. I had an x-ray of my foot and it was found to have a 4mm heel spur. I sought treatment from a local podiatrist who also performed an ultrasound. It was determined that in addition to the heel spur, I also had severe plantar fasciitis. I tried several different insoles, a series of corisone injections, steroids, and physical therapy. None of these worked and the heel pain was so great, that it would wake me up at night.
My job has me on my feet 12hours a day. Six hours into a shift, I was hobbling around in pain. After trying all the conservative treatments, surgery was my only option.
As I said earlier, my surgery was on December 28. I regret it every single day. I’m now in constant pain whether sitting, standing or even laying down. I did everything the doctor told me to do exactly the way he said. He’s been telling me it it’s just taking me longer to recover. Post-surgery I’ve had an additional cortisone shot and weeks of physical therapy. I saw my doctor on Friday and now he’s getting concerned. He’s stopped physical therapy and has ordered an MRI (have to now wait for pre-auth from insurance company).
I’m in much worse pain than before the surgery. Now I can’t stand at all without pain and can only walk a very short distance without having to sit down. Depending on what is found on the MRI, he may have to go back in. That scares me tremendously. What if it’s even worse. I have been out of work since the surgery and there is no end in sight. I’m getting discouraged and depressed.
I realize the majority of these surgeries go well, but you could end up like me where it’s been disastrous.
I am so sorry to hear this. I can’t even imagine how you must feel. I have been dealing with PF for almost 7 months now and its gotten to the point where I am seriously considering surgery. However, reading your story definitely causes a lot of hesitation. I’ve tried custom orthotics, a walking boot, 3 cortisone injections in one foot, taping, night splints, crutches, anti-inflammatories, prescription anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, a ton of stretching on my own. I think I’ve noticed a slight improvement in my left foot (its hard to say because it ebbs and flows), but my right foot has only gotten worse. Is there anything that you would recommend for me to consider before I decide whether or not to do surgery? What would you have done differently? What would be your general advice?
Hello I think I have the same problem as you. I had my surgery 11/16 and I’m worse than before the surgery. I saw 4 different doctors afterward and most of them were reason the “you need to rest it more” unbelievable! Did find a dr who tried to help me. She tried nerve blocking which was helpful but sadly didn’t last. I’m currently on lyrica which actually is helping me even though it’s still a problem. It’s assumed I have nerve pain but I feel like it’s the heel spur cutting that’s causing me pain. Ask your dr to try some of these treatments it may help
You should see other doctors too. Have the looked for arthritis? Get multiple opinions and ask about pressure on the pins if you end up needing a bone fusion for arthritis. I so feel for you and damn, of course you’re depressed!! One day at a time.
Hi has your pain now improved? I had the surgery a week ago, I was told I would be weight bearing on the day. The excruciating pain was horrendous for 4 days. Now it just hurts all the time and I cant move my little toe anymore. I’m hoping this is temporary and isn’t a really bad decision. Did you get your problem sorted? I’m a flight attendant and need to be on my feet for 12 + hrs a day.
Hi my name is Julie Chapman im 53 and on medicaid. I am wearing a boot on my left foot now with light cast underneath. I have high Arches and had been a dancer from age 6 to 13 doing ballet tap and straight ballet. I have had plantar fictitious. For a year now and just had a shot in left foot xrays taken that showed i have arthritis. And a spur on my left foot heel bone . so like sarahs story somewhat i am having my right foot do all the work so will have to have my right foot done later on down the road too. Good luck and God bless all of us going through and dealing with surgery and chronic pain like this.Julie Chapman.
THANK YOU for doing this informative article.
10 years ago I injured my feet at the same time. It’s been hell every day.
I’ve been suffering with chronic pain in both feet, diagnosis , chronic plantar fasciitis and neuropathy.
I’m praying this time my Dr can get authorization for surgery. What would you recommend I do in preparing ahead of surgery date which is just going through authorization?
Again THANK YOU
3 1/2 weeks post plantar fasciotomy. Before surgery I tried physical therapy, cortisone injections, got fitted for a few pairs of orthotics… was doing a little better then twisted my foot and heard a pop and severe pain…I had torn my plantar fascia and basically had to get the surgery so it wouldn’t tear more. So glad I did it and would recommend it if no other options work. I was on no weight bearing in splint for 2 weeks now in walking cast while sleeping and walking with breaks to stretch and massage my foot and start bearing weight slowly without the boot. My orthopedic surgeon said the key is to keep the foot flexed in a “standing” position with the splint/boot so that it heals without being so tight instead of like when your foot drops. I’ve felt incision pain and soreness from bruising but none of the PF pain. So I’m keeping good thoughts!!
Are you by any chance in No. California? If so, can I ask you the doctor’s name.
WOW THANK YOU for sharing your experience dealing with plantar fasciitis. I’ve suffered with plantar fasciitis for the past 10 years having to medicate to be on my feet. Lost my balance and injured my knee which had to be totally replaced 3 yrs later. Your words have given me hope and now looking forward to surgery the end of May.
Seriously looking for a great doctor. I’m in Sacramento Cali and will travel. Any suggestions welcome.
Can someone with success tell me if they know a doctor in Kaiser in Bay Area they are happy with.
I would appreciate your sharing info, Even if you have a non Kaiser doctor you are happy with the surgery on Planter.
Did you find a good kaiser doctor in the bay area? my doctors are horrible that Ive had. I’ve had pf for 2 years considering surgery..thanks
Did you find a good doctor?I’m in nor cal too.
If you can go to the orthopedic hospital that your local sports teams use and there is always the #1 hospital, The Mayo Clinic. They do have sites outside of Minnesota.
My story of PF is somewhat different than most. After about six months of reduced activity the PF continued getting worse. I went through the usual litany of injections, orthotics, stretches, icing and that worthless night splint. Nothing worked. I’m usually pretty active and the inactivity was extremely frustrating. Finally I just decided the heck with it, I was going to the gym and I was going to hit the treadmill, come what may. Warmed up slowly then began a trot. After about five minutes of jogging I moved into a 6 mph run. Foot was screaming but I just kept going. Seven minutes into the run I felt a searing pain in the heel and was afraid that I had really done something very foolish. BUT, the pain subsided even before I could bring the treadmill to a halt and I kept going for another ten minutes with essentially NO pain! I stopped the treadmill and when I got off I could walk without pain for the first time in over a year. I had a Doc appointment two days later and when I told him what had happened he told me that I had done what they would have done with the surgery; torn the tendons slightly which released the fascia. No more pain…..gone completely! I don’t know what the downside of this could’ve been, or if I could’ve done really bad damage to the heel on that treadmill. Perhaps I was lucky and my hardheadedness actually paid off for once? That was 11 years ago and that foot has been just fine ever since. But now I’ve got PF in the other foot and am going through the same ritual again……shots, stretching, etc. kind of leary of hitting the treadmill but am certainly considering it if this mess keeps up. I’d love to hear a doctor weigh in on the pros and cons of the “treadmill cure.”
I just had surgery today. PF and tarsel tunnel surgery. I hope mine turns out well. I feel very confident in my doctor. My hard thing is anesthesia; My blood pressure rised then dropped seriously with meds.
Were you able to ride a bike/any other type of cardio work?
I had surgery 2 weeks ago with my podiatrist. I had the endoscopic PF release surgery due to a heel spur on my left foot. I have walked around in pain for 8 years. I work in a Nursing Home with concrete floors. I usually average 7000 steps per day.
I feel my foot is healing,each day it is a little better. I had no weight bearing restrictions . She told me to walk on it so I have been. I have only take Advil and it has been enough. I just got my EOB and the hospital billed $13,000 and my part is $3500. To be pain free and feel like I can go hiking and walk for pleasure again, the price will be worth it.
Thanks for sharing your story that gives me more confidence and relief. I work at a hospital and I’m constantly on my feet. I was told that I will be needing surgery in the next couple of weeks (waiting on approval from workmen’s comp).I had an injury last year twisted my ankle now I’ve been having constant pain off and on to that same foot for the last 8months.Tried different shoes, insoles and cortisone shots nothing worked. So now went to see a foot/ankle specialist (who has an outstanding record) and he told me I have a lot of scar tissue built up and will need surgery. After reading your story I feel more at ease to do the surgery cause this pain is only getting worse and old. Thank you for your story I hope afterwards my situation has a great outcome like yours. Thank you again.
So, I’m considering this surgery too, or a wheelchair. I have tried everything, I’ve had PF since 2005, I’m only able to stand for half an hour at best. Did I mention I have a 5 year old😥. My question is this; have any of you been told you have bi-latteral severe neuropathy? I’m supposed to get a nuero consultant for my feet. I’m not diabetic, but My nueropathy in my feet and severe PF pain is causing me to fall, and have frequent sprains. I’m so over injections, PT, ICE AND STRETCHING DOES HELP- but how can u ice your feet(both) and buy milk at the store…at the same time???? It’s either be couch bound, or full of pain meds, or this surgery I guess. I’m in so much pain. The PF is bad, then finding my spurs a degenerative, hich makes them pointy and hurts. But 6 month ago they told me I have neuropathy in but feet. Has anyone ever been told that? Who DOESN’T have diabetes? I’m not sure where a big bone growth just came from (found at ER-x Ray), but I am lost…need advice—Pueblo,CO (where there is only 1 doc to choose from. Advice would be appreciated.
I am usually a positive person, a single mom, struggling to keep my 5 yr old active (as young ones need) -but she doesn’t understand the pain that walking or een standing causes me now. Anyone have advice on the child piece? Nueropathy is now called one of the “suicide pains”, Plantar fasciitis is debilitating enough…peace to u all and keep posting hope for us if you can. Beth
Hey Beth, I’ve been dealing with severe PF for over 2 years now. It all started with a stress fracture in my right foot from standing in the same spot all day at my previous job. I was put in a boot, did PT, custom orthotics and I did all the at home remedies i could to even slightly relieve my pain but with no avail. I was put on pain meds and was sent to an orthopedic doctor who I’ve been seeing now for quite some time. I’ve had many tests and these were all my diagnosis; Severe PF, Achilles tendonitis, Neuropathy in both feet, a stress fracture that took almost a year to heal ( which I forgot to add I had to use a bone stimulator) bone spurs in both heels and fatty cysts on the sides of my feet caused from swelling. So needless to say I’m CONSTANTLY IN pain. So, I completely understand how you feel and the answer to your question is yes I have neuropathy as well. My first foot surgery is scheduled for July 12th of this year which is like a couple weeks away and I have to admit I’m kind of terrified. Some people say it’s the best decision they have ever made and others say it’s the worst. But I will say if it even gives me the slightest bit of relief I will be happy because I can literally cry over it. ( I have a super low pain tolerance though lol) I just wanted you to know you are not alone! I hope you get to feeling better! Feet pain is no joke!
Linda July 29, 2018
I had surgery on the 2 of July. It had been over 3 years of pain 9 cortisone injections the last one had me limping for 3 days. Decided it was time to take care of it. I had tried the night splint, icing, exercises, orthotics, compression sleeves etc. After surgery Dr had me in boot no weight. On the 10th I didn’t have to sleep with boot. Elevate and stay off as much as I can. Keep boot on when moving around no weight till the 15th of August. Plantar fasciitis release with heel spur removed. Honestly left foot is feeling better than my right. Hoping to get back to normal. My have to have right foot done also.
Linda, I had my PF surgery August 3rd, have u noticed a lot of pressure in your foot ? I’m not sure if it’s actually called pressure or if it’s swelling , I have to get from my bed to the restroom on my crutches and by the time I’m done going to the restroom my foot feels like it’s going to explode . Just wondering if anyone else had this happen.
I have PF from February and I got surgery September 07.2018 now I’m waiting for recovery,I feeling much better now ,the feeling PF burns after during days before surgery ,I hope my surgery going to be good!very confident with my doctor.
I had surgery four days ago. And the pain is kill me. I feel like my foot is beating and the stitches are burning. I hope this pain will go away soon The doctor put me in a sneaker already and told me walk on it . I hope I did the right thing Has anybody else had this feel after there surgery.
I had suffered nearly two years with PF pain in my right foot. I was given stretches and icing techniques. Then injections. Then a walking boot. Then physical therapy. Then OTC orthotics and custom orthotics (which made the pain worse). Then PT with steroid patches. Then another boot. Then finally an MRI showing extensive damage to the facia tendon. Surgery was immediately scheduled. While they did an open surgery across my heel, they also did an open procedure to lengthen the tendon from calf to heel. I did not experience alot of pain. OTC meds worked just fine. It’s been nearly a year and the heel pain is gone, but I do have pain in my ankle and around the top of my foot. It feels like maybe a stress fracture. And now, I’m quite certain I’ll be having surgery on my other foot for PF pain. I miss walking distances and even just shopping. You cant really bypass foot pain, so you have to do what works!
I have been suffering with PF for year now. I am a nurse so on my feet all day. I have taken steroids by mouth twice, 2 steroid injections, boot, specials shoes,ice, off work to rest it for ten days with boot & roll about! NO relief !
Orthopedist, recommended open PF surgery! I am one day PO in boot & on roll about. Honestly, I didn’t expect this much pain. It feels like a sharp object is stabbing my foot. It burns, narcotic pain meds (which i hate but no choice) only dull for brief cycles. I am so ready to get back to normal.