It can be nerve-wracking to decide to take a “next step.” Seeking that new promotion at work, advancing a romantic relationship, or making a big financial investment, is a big step. You don’t want to take that step too soon, but you also don’t want to do it too late. The same is true for deciding on surgery for heel pain. Not everyone needs it, but knowing when you do is half the challenge. So, you are left with the question: when should you consider heel pain surgery?
Heel pain, particularly for plantar fasciitis, is a progressive problem, so it gets worse over time unless it’s treated. Surgery is a big step and usually isn’t necessary for painful heels. Normally conservative methods like shoe changes, stretches, orthotics, and even physical therapy can make a big difference for the condition and your discomfort. There does come a point, however, when surgery becomes an important treatment method. Knowing when it’s the right step helps ensure you get the right foot care.
So when is surgery right? Typically surgery is considered when noninvasive methods aren’t improving your pain. For some reason or another, your plantar fascia doesn’t respond to these techniques and the discomfort persists. The conservative treatment methods do have to be given enough time to make a difference for your lower limbs, however—they do take a while to determine if they are working or not.
So who should be considering heel pain surgery?
- Someone whose heel pain isn’t improving despite months of conservative treatments
- Someone whose heel pain is getting in the way of their ability to participate in hobbies, despite conservative treatments