Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help people with chronic heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis when other treatments (like physical therapy, medications, or injections) haven’t worked.
WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS:
It’s irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes. This causes sharp heel pain, especially when you first stand up in the morning.
WHAT IS EMBOLIZATION:
Embolization is a technique where a doctor uses tiny particles to block certain blood vessels. In this case, the goal is to reduce the extra blood flow that feeds inflammation in the plantar fascia.
BENEFITS OF PFE:
- No large incision (just a small puncture).
- Usually done under local anesthesia.
- Quick recovery compared to surgery.
- Can help when other conservative treatments fail.
THE PROCEDURE:
- Our Interventional Radiologist makes a tiny puncture (usually in your leg or groin) and inserts a thin tube called a catheter.
- Using imaging guidance, they navigate to the small blood vessels near the plantar fascia.
- They release microscopic beads to partially block these vessels, reducing inflammation and pain.
RECOVERY:
- The procedure is outpatient, so you usually go home the same day.
- Most patients can walk right after the procedure.
- Typically, within a few days, you can return to normal activity, compared to weeks or months for surgery.
- Significant improvement is often reported within a few weeks, though full relief may take longer depending on severity and individual healing factors
IDEAL PATIENTS:
- Are experiencing Chronic heel pain lasting 3–6 months or more that hasn’t improved with standard treatments like:
- Stretching and Physical Therapy
- Orthotic shoe inserts
- Ice therapy
- Steroid injections or shockwave therapy
- Have pain that is worst in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Who wants a non-surgical option with faster recovery and less risk than traditional surgery.
- Have received Imaging or clinical evaluation that suggests abnormal blood vessel growth around the plantar fascia (a common cause of persistent inflammation).
- Are in general good health and can undergo a minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia