CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT
There is a possibility in some patients, the pain will go away. However, in most cases, the longer a patient waits to seek treatment, the more chronic the condition usually becomes. In most instances, conservative care including:

• Shoe modifications
• Medications, (anti-inflammatories and analgesics)
• Injections
• Plantar fasciitis night splint
• Physical therapy, (whirlpool, ultrasound, electrical stimulation)
• Functional orthotics, and
• ShockWave Therapy for Heel Pain, (single treatment success rate is equal to or greater than surgery)
• Padding and strapping, may decrease the pain to a more tolerable level. However, if pain and discomfort persist after conservative measures have been exhausted, then surgery may be recommended.

Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy is the newest surgical method for heel pain and for the correction of heel spur syndrome and plantar fasciitis. The surgery has a success rate of 50%to 97%. This new procedure allows for a shorter recovery period and a faster return to normal activity, Weight bearing is usually encouraged immediately after the procedure. The surgery is performed on a outpatient basis. The procedure utilizes specially designed instruments and fibro-optics that allow the surgeon to directly visualize the foot structures of the foot on a video screen though only 2 small incisions in the foot. The tight plantar fascial band is visualized, an assesment is made and then the tight band is released. Other surgical procedures may be recommended depending on the individual case.

In performing an Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy, it is not necessary to remove the heel spur in order to help alleviate the pain. A small incision is made in the affected fascia to release the tension. Most patients are able to return to work within a week, and resume their normal pace within a month. Another attractive feature of the procedure is the fact that many patients are able to wear their own shoes 3 days after the procedure.

Due to different age groups and the activity level of patients, the recovery period may be different. Dr. Galluzzo and Dr. Rodriguez are certified in EPF, endoplastic plantar fasciotomy, surgery through extensive lectures and hands-on surgical dissection courses.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS?
As with all surgery, no procedure is risk-free, and there is no guarantee of success. Fortunately, endoscopic surgery has few complications; they are relatively minor and usually resolved with careful follow-up. Some risks may include delayed healing with aching at the surgical site or instep, infection, or small areas of numbness at the incision points.

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR THIS SURGICAL PROCEDURE?
If you have failed to obtain relief with conservative treatment, then you may benefit from Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy. A complete evaluation and discussion with the physician will help to determine if surgical intervention is an option for you.