Plantar Facia release and heel spur removal - One month ago

by April
(Upland CA)

This is just sort of an FYI, because I know a lot of people have plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. I'm writing this because these are things that doctors don't tell you. All my doctor told me about recovery was "crutches for 4 days, then the boot". They simply don't have time to spell out what you need.


So I was thinking I could go back to "normal" after the first week. Nope. It's been a month and it's just now getting back to "normal" (AKA pain similar to what I had before surgery).

I spent 2 years getting cortisone injections, buying orthotics, stretching, icing, trying to rest... I finally gave up and had surgery. At this point, I don't regret it. I'm in about as much pain now as I was before surgery, and it's getting a little better each week.

Its been 1 full month since my surgery. At this point I can wear my new balance cross trainers. I can walk about 5 minutes (slowly) before taking a 5 minute break due to pain and exhaustion. My leg muscles are weak on my right side, so they cramp easily.

I can walk with shoes for about a half-day and then I have to switch to the cam walker boot. Then I can finish out the day on the 5up/5down schedule.

Just in case you are considering plantar fasciitis / heel spur surgery, here is how it went for me:

Surgery went fine. No pain, because I was asleep. ;-) It was an outpatient procedure. Surgery took about 45 minutes. Wear cotton shorts so you can get dressed easily in recovery afterwards, and bring your boot to wear afterwards (mainly to protect your foot from getting bumped - it's not really for walking, yet). You won't have a cast.

Immediate Recovery/ In Hospital: Foot is numb. Covered with dressing and ace bandage. Throat is sore because of the breathing tube. ( I was asleep when they put it in - but awake when they took it out. It didn't hurt to remove - but I was sore afterwards)


Week 1: Total bed rest except bathroom & hygiene trips. Pain fairly intense even while lying down. Advil & tylenol PM work better than codiene. I recommend Tylenol PM so you can sleep, and the time goes by faster. If you want to stay awake, regular tylenol works too. Ice and elevation is a must due to swelling. Ice behind the knee and at the ankle. My toes swelled to the point of immobility if not constantly elevated.

Walking: no weight 4 days, then walk with crutches and boot... Very short distances - about 1 min max. When you can put some weight on it, a boot and one crutch on the opposite side seems to work fine...that way you can carry your own medications and washcloth and maybe a phone in the other hand. Sponge bath only. Everything takes forever...and ever..and ever..

Week 2: Able to sit up some- about an hour, twice a day. Balance good enough to get into the bath tub with foot hanging out the side. A handheld showerhead is very helpful. (just remember to bring it down to tub level before you sit down in the tub...lol) Tip: Wear a sock on your good foot - the sock will get wet, but will help with leverage when you are trying to get out of a wet tub. Keep your cam walker boot on the other foot - it has a non-skid bottom and it will also help keep your foot from getting splashed. A hand rail would have come in handy, too. Still mostly bedrest. Only trip away from home is to go to the doctor. Not much pain at this point - but I'm not really walking, either. Swelling is the main problem.

Week 3: Retention stitches removed at the beginning of this week. Get your physical therapy referral at this time. Sometimes it takes a while to go through, and it would be helpful to start this right at week 4. Getting the retention stitches out offers little relief. Makes me nervous to walk just with the incision stitches.
Risk of overdoing because swelling is reduced. Can sit up a couple of hours at a time. This is when my back started hurting due to being in bed and the "off balance walking" (the boot makes one leg about 2 inches longer which causes a sort of waddle.. Hard on the lower back). However at this point I'm going stir-crazy and will put up with pain in order to be up and doing things. Just know that the usual back pain exercises on the floor are almost impossible because you can't get the right leverage on one side. For me, this is the time that everything started going bad and I needed help with laundry, housework, dog care.

The family gets tired of waiting on you, and the home starts to look dirty. Just plan on hiring some help at this point - even if it's just the neighbor kid to pick up your floors so you can walk from the bed to the bathroom without tripping.

Week 4: All stitches removed at the beginning of this week. Did not provide immediate relief. Still swollen some. It took a couple of days before a shoe felt comfortable. The incision was very hard to the touch and still required butterfly closures for 3 days. Can shower but no soaking foot in tub for 2 more weeks. Showers are more difficult than I had imagined, because being barefoot on hard surfaces is very painful. Day 4, I can drive and run short errands. This is the one improvement I've seen. Before surgery, I couldn't drive without pain, and now I can.

Today (end of week 4): I think I've overdone, and my foot (both feet, actually) are very sore. I'm supposed to start physical therapy soon... until then I'm not sure what's safe. My incision isn't totally closed and healed yet. It's not bloody or anything, but there's still a small gap. I'm trying to wear my boot as much as possible to keep my foot stretched out (I've heard the facia can actually re-attach itself! Good grief, I would hate to have done this for nothing).

Bottom line is this: You'll need to stay in bed for the better part of a month. I thought I would be able to be on the sofa, but that didn't work for the first two weeks because of the effort required to get UP out of the sofa. The bed is high enough that I could stand up and still have the bed for support. Get a TV in position that you can see while lying on your back and some sort of small mobile internet device to keep in touch, and for entertainment (laptop isn't really that practical). Arrange for someone to take care of the pets, kids and housework. You wont be doing it.

No driving for a month if your surgery is on your right foot (like mine). The main reason is because you have to wear a boot, and you can't drive with the boot. If it's on your left, you can probably drive after 3 weeks as long as you aren't on pain meds. Very light housework in week 4. If you have a job, work is out of the question if your recovery is like mine. After one month you can probably do a desk job...wear your boot and take a crutch.



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Joshua Answers:

Hi April.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience!

Plantar Fasciitis specifically and Tendonitis in general can be bad news, and obviously can get even worse when someone goes cutting around in there.

See: What Is Tendonitis

What exactly did they do in there, surgery wise?

How big is the incision? Just one?




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The Tendonitis Expert
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Comments for Plantar Facia release and heel spur removal - One month ago

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Jun 15, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery 10 days ago
by: Jewel

I had my bone spur and tendon surgery 10 days ago. I was fortunate that they did a nerve block in my leg before I had the surgery. The nerve block lasted for 2 1/2 days. I highly recommend it.

I am in a cast until day 14. Walking on crutches is incredibly difficult. I have a moving Around my house in a desk type rolling chair. They said a day 14 I will get the walking boot. I hope to be somewhat mobile so I’ll stop getting the dirty looks because I need things brought to me. I will say so far the pain has been better than when I was walking on it every day, I have a job where I have to stand or walk every single day on concrete .


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Joshua Comments:

Great! How have things progressed?
Jun 01, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel spur
by: Anonymous

I went to the dr in May and they did X-rays and said I have 2 large heel spurs on the left foot! One on the back of heel and a knot.

The pain goes up the back of my leg some and I have leg cramps bad! Almost in tears when they happen! The other heel spur is on the bottom of foot! Same foot!

I asked what I needed to do and she said they needed to be cut out! I work at dollar general so a knee scooter would be the best for me?

I think the spur on back of heel is effecting my Akelia‘s tendon.. what’s your input on my situation!

Not to mention I have to get insurance first so it may be January before I can do anything! Dr. Said she will refer me to an orthopedic surgeon when I get the insurance!


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Anonymous.

A knee scooter is 100% the way to go after a foot surgery. Cutting out two bone spurs is no small ordeal, you'll want to be off that foot for a good while. And crutches can be awkward at best and dangerous at worst (one misstep/fall onto the damaged foot can cause serious injury).

Are the tendons actually cutting into the tendon? Are you sure the spurs are the cause of the pain?
Sep 22, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Upcoming surgery
by: Anonymous

I am having a bone spur removed and a plantar fasciitis release in October. I want to be prepared for this. I will be home for 1 week and then back to work.

I have a desk job, elevator at work and great coworkers to help out. I already have a wheelchair, would the knee scooter be better? What is some advice that you all now know that you wish you have known then?


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Joshua Comments:

1. I hope you're back to work 7 days past surgery. The good news is you have a desk job so you can probably get through that.

Bone spur removal is not a minor procedure. (well, it's small in scope but bone removal is an entirely ungentle tactic).

2. Wheel chairs are great for getting around where wheel chairs are great. Knee scooters are far superior to crutches.

I'd get a knee scooter as it's far easier to get around smaller spaces in (house, probably office).


3. Others can answer of course, but I'd list:

A. expect more pain than the doctor told you. (If you have a high pain tolerance, this is a good thing).

B. It sounds like you're pretty well set up in the work environment, have support at home too. It's highly unlikely you're going to want to be up and around the first 1-7 days. (Some people do fine, so it's definitely a possibility).

C. Go to the main page of this site and use the site search bar and put in 'just had surgery plantar'. Plenty to learn from those results.




I'm curious what others might have to say as well.
Sep 09, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Might I need to have spur removal surgery too?
by: Delfina

I had fascia release surgery on April 26, 2018 after 7 years of foot pain, which became unbearable the past year. My surgery was very quick and rather pleasant for a surgical procedure. I was only in pain the first few days, and that was surprisingly minimal pain,as long as I stayed off it off course.

I was able to do much more than I thought I would using the knee scooter. I have a 2 story, so between my husband and my children, they would bring my scooter up and down the stairs, so I didn't miss out on family time. I feel that my recovery is going very well, and I am very happy I went through with the surgery.

However, there was a small bone spur, but the doctor didn't feel it was necessary to remove, as he felt that the release would be sufficient. I am 3 weeks post-op, and I was given the ok to start putting weight as long as I'm able for as long as I'm able to.

However, I'm noticing that the heel pain is still there when I try to step flat or when I press on my heel.

Can I expect the pain to subside or should I not be feeling the heel pain by now? How long of recovery should I wait before deciding to have the bone spur removed? I really hate to have to go through another surgery due to the time I have to be off my feet and out of work. Thanks in advance!


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Delfina.

1. Is the heel spur right where you're feeling heel pain when laying on your back/pushing on the heel?

2. Regardless of that answer, 3 weeks post a very invasive/traumatic to the foot, it's not surprising that the heel would hurt. For a variety of reasons.

3. Heel spur's aren't in and of themselves a problem nor a cause of pain. So only get it revoved if A. it's proven to be the cause of pain and B. it's really big.

Lots of people have bone spurs with no pain/problem, and grinding bone off of bone....it gonna hurt.

Having said that, the bone spur is triggered to grow, long story short, by the tendonitis dynamic...the same dynamic that caused the pain that you had the surgery to try to get rid of. Keep in mind that surgery doesn't remove that dynamic.

4. It's been about 5 months since you wrote this, how are things now?
Aug 13, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Feeling Fortunate
by: Anonymous

Had Heel Spur Removal almost one month ago. Not nearly as bad as some have noted. I feel very fortunate. Also had a bunionectomy on the same foot at the same time - double whammy. All on my right foot.

Surgery happened on a Wednesday - could not bear weight on the foot for 1 week. Returned to work the following Monday. Used a walker and scooter to get around. Recommend the scooter by far. The one where you kneel and roll! SO incredibly wonderful. Stairs are a total NO. I crawled up and scooted down with my right foot totally immobile. My kids laughed at me.

I used the pain killers given to me - first 3 days in full strength then weaned down to half as needed. It was incredibly painful but with the bunionectomy I had a pin besides stitches for the heel spur surgery.

Besides the pain in the foot, leg aches were the main discomfort. Ice and massage really helped alot. It was difficult to sleep at times and I elevated my foot as much as I could any time I was at home or at work.

Bathing is done on a stool in the shower with my leg outside the tub. I have no problems showering every morning and doing my normal routing. It takes longer but that's fine.

I did not drive until after about a week and a half until I could really put a little weight on my foot. It was really really hard to try to trust to put weight on the foot and honestly I kept to my scooter and moved to crutches and really hesitated to put too much weight until I was ready and it felt ok to do so.

After week 2 half of my stitches were removed. By then things were still very tender but started to get itchy. Legs still ached.
Using Crutches is the best way to get around. The key is to get ones that fit - I am really short so had to get kids crutches.

Week 3 all the stitches came out along with my pin. I can walk fairly ok in the boot. Driving is fine but hard pressure on the pedals is noticable. My foot gets tired easily and i don't have the normal endurance.

In a week the boot will come off and I will be able to wear a normal shoe with my insole. Always with insole since my foot is literally totally unsupported now that the plantar fascia is released.

Figuring out ways to scoot around with just one foot was a challenge. I will say having to go to the bathroom during the night was a pain! I almost face planted once. But you learn really quick what you can and can NOT do.

I am confident that in a couple months I will be totally relieved of pain. My doc said I could run eventually and I am super optimistic.

I would do it again if I had to - it beats the pain I had before and all the cortisone shots, painful walking and missing out on fun stuff cause my foot was so painful that I walked like an 80 year old.


Jul 10, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		It gets better.
by: Anonymous

I am 48 years old and had the plantar fascial release surgery on May 1st. Yes my doctor downplayed the recovery and I was rather shocked how difficult it was the first week to do anything including Shower with a bag over my foot that I couldn't put weight on.

Each week there was noticeable Improvement and it really took over a month before my foot felt anywhere near normal. After 7 weeks I was able to take a vacation out of the country do a lot of walking and standing with real but livable discomfort.

I am now 9 weeks out and I will take the morning ache over the stabbing pain that I had before. My doctor told me not to resume jogging for 3 months so I am waiting until the beginning of August to start jogging with my dogs which I am able to walk twice a day for 30 minutes each time.

It is important after surgery and well into recovery to continue wearing foot and arch support pretty much at all times when you are on your feet.
Jul 09, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Glad I had surgery
by: Charlotte

It has been quite a while since my surgeries but I wanted to post a long term recovery story. I had plantar fascia release on both feet (my second time for fascia release on both), bone spur removal on both feet, and Achilles release on both feet. My left foot was first. Back to work on a knee scooter 5 days later. Bad idea! I work at Home Depot! Recovery was ok but took a long time. Six months later, we did my right foot. I was hesitant because I was still in a lot of pain.

When we did my right foot, recovery was faster but I had sural nerve damage this time. Again, back to work in five days on a scooter. After I could start walking, about a month, I requested physical therapy. Now both feet hurt and walking was very difficult. It was like learning to walk all over again. Fast forward about 6 months and I am pain free. I still have nerve damage but I have no more pain in my feet. I even quit wearing my orthotics. I still walk on concrete floors 8 hours a day and pain free. I wear memory foam shoes and replace them every three months. But I am able enjoy activities pain free. I know it is hard at first but give it time. Overall, it is a short amount of time when you compare it to the 20 years of agony before surgery.
Jul 08, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not Quite a Month
by: Anonymous

I am 4 days shy of a month from my surgery. It has not been the most pleasant of experiences.

WK 1: Very cruel adjustment. I am very independent, and having to rely on someone to assist me to the restroom was degrading. They helped with my bath time as well. The pain was worst at night so I took a Tylenol PM so I could rest.

WK 2: Still experienced a great deal of pain. I had to find projects to keep my mind busy. In two weeks I read 4 book it normally takes me a month to read one.

WK 3: Had my second follow up to get the stitches out. I didn’t think it was time because it appeared to still be open. My Doctor told me that I should be taking steps, at least 15. I was able to merge my foot in water and apply lotion. I tried all of those things and was not at that level of comfort.

Now heading into week 4, I started walking on the side of my foot with crutches, which I don’t think is proper. I noticed this evening that there is a large bruise on the middle of my foot. I will be calling my Doctor first thing in the morning. My appointment is not till the end of the week.

I hope my experience will aide others to ask their doctors more questions.
May 13, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Swelling-tingeling 8 weeks post surgery
by: Scott

Hello,

I had the Plantar Fascia on my left foot released and a bone spur removed. It has been 8 weeks since surgery.

My ankle and foot still swells up and it is a little tingly like it is asleep. The doctors checked for blood clots and there were none.

I was just told different people heal at different rates. Also the ball of my foot feels different. There is more pressure in the middle toe area. It just feels different when I walk. I have not asked about that yet. I assume it is because the tendon was released.

Anyone else have similar issues?

Thanks


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Scott.

It's definitely going to feel different, as a major structural support of your foot structure has been partially/completely severed.

WHich also (problaby) is what's causing the swelling/chronic inflammation process: There's a major wound in your food. There's lots going on in there.

What have you been doing for rehap/self-care?
May 07, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rougher than expected
by: Anonymous

I'm not sure if the docs downplayed the surgery so you go through with it or what but my doctor said a couple small incisions and you'll be up on your feet in a few days. It has been 7 days since my surgery I still have my stitches and really can't even put a shoe on my foot.

I can walk with about 50% weight on my right foot with crutches as assistant. It is still very tender and sore and if I move my toes towards my knee it sends a sharp pain like an electrical shock through my foot. I figure that's the tissue healing. I'm just about able to get the courage to try driving a short distance but I still feel like it is very dangerous. I shower with a bag taped around my surgery foot and can only walk short distances around the house before being exhausted.
Apr 14, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Both Heels surgery
by: Georgie

I had bone spurs removed on both heels. This last one on left heel was the size of a golf ball split in half. This time dr had to detach Achilles’ tendon. It was outpatient surgery. I used marijuana butter/oil to control my pain. Spent 6 weeks not walking on foot. I just got cleared to walk yesterday and it hurts very very bad. I’m going to physical therapy soon I hope. Also hoping pain will subside to a reasonable level within a couple weeks so I can start walking with my goats and dog again!

Thx for your info...gives me hope my pain will subside soon. I hope!
Apr 10, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Very informative
by: Susan

I have read and reread this account. I read it before my surgery and read it twice since my surgery. I had foot surgery on March 30th 2018. I had a heel spur on the back of my left heel and at the same time I had a spur removed on the bottom of my foot and plantar fasciitis released. So I have 2 different incisions. It has been much more difficult then I thought it would be. And I knew it would be somewhat difficult to begin with.

I have dissolvable stitches on the back of my heel and regular stitches on the side of my heel. I do have a knee scooter but I live in a small house so that is difficult sometimes too.

My Dr has said he leaves stitches in for 3 weeks. So I still have another week of them in. I am nervous about walking once that is approved. I'm afraid it is going to hurt.

Right now I am only taking Tylenol as needed. Oh and my house is a mess right now. I'm getting out once a week to go to the Dr and that's it. And I'm home alone all day. This surgery is not horrible you can do it just realize that it isn't easy. Plan as much as you can in every way possible!


Apr 05, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery 3/6/2018
by: Joy

I am 4 weeks post op. The bottom of my foot (just the heel part) is completely numb. I am able to walk around but only on the ball of my foot.

That’s the only part I can feel.

Also with some light stretching of the foot it feels like an electric shock going through my foot. Calling orthopedic doc in the morning. Anyone else experience this?
Mar 31, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		April you’re dead on!
by: Anonymous

I had the exact same surgery 3/8/18 and I just got the sutures removed. The incision isn’t fully closed yet and I am restricted from any weight bearing.

Swelling is still a factor remember ice is our friend. I am on stronger pain meds thank god. This has been such a challenging recovery and yes the family is of little help. Im looking for someone to come clean every other week. Should have set it up in advance, live and learn.

Fortunately I have a knee scooter much better than crutches. Hard to load in and out of the car without help so I’m home-bound the majority of the week.

Looking forward to what week 4 has install for me. Incision site is quite tender no shoes yet and my heel is quite bruised like prior to surgery. Fingers crossed that all of this is worth it in the long run.

April you definitely are not the exception to the rule. I feel your pain in every sense of the way. Heal well.


Mar 21, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Postop Plantar fasciotomy recovery
by: LucyAnonymous

Hi , I’m 3 weeks post-op plantar fasciotomy and my experience has been Nothing like the above Poster’s. Seriously? Bedrest for 4 weeks?

I don’t want people to be frightened to death of surgery after reading about her experience. I believe her experience is the absolute exception.

Postop pain minimal. Took pain meds for few days.

I was on no weight bearing restrictions on operative foot for 3 weeks then resume normal weight bearing or to level of comfort tomorrow after having the remaining stitches removed. I’ve been getting around with knee scooter and crutches at times. Knee scooter has been great. It has a basket attached so I can get and carry whatever I may need.

Important to exercise your legs to prevent a blood clot! She said could only tolerate being up for 5 min max the first few weeks? What? Makes me wonder if she has some underlying medical condition. I won’t say this first 3 weeks is a cake walk but it’s not nearly as bad as what she experienced. Hardest part is staying down as I’m very active and independent.

If you’ve exhausted all other treatments as I did and surgery is now your only option, fear not! I do expect it to take up to 6 months for complete recovery as I was told by my surgeon.

I’m ok with that as I have had unrelenting pain for over a year!


Best of luck!
Lucy


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Joshua Comments:

"I believe her experience is the absolute exception."

Your belief is incorrect.

"If you’ve exhausted all other treatments as I did and surgery is now your only option, fear not!"

In the interest of accuracy, you didn't try all other treatments and surgery wasn't the only remaining option.

You didn't address the actual causes of your Plantar Fasciits symptoms before surgery, and surgery ignores the causative factors of PF pain etc.

It's great thatyour surgery went well and your recovery is proceeding in an 'acceptable not particularly problematic recovery". That's a super good thing.

And, not everybody gets the same 'depth' of surgery. Some people have much more less or more extensive damage done to their feet.

Not everybody has the same pain tolerance levels nor is as nutritionally replete as others.

Not everybody's structures and/or nervous systems can happily withstand the partial or complete destruction of a major structural support of the food.

Not everybody's surgeon is as skilled as yours maybe was.

Not everybody gets through the surgery without nerves that weren't supposed to get severed or nicked getting severed or nicked.

Etc, Etc, Etc.

Admittedly I have a little bit of charge about this, as doctors regularly put people into greater states of pain and problem than they were pre-surgery, and then when those people try to get help for that those doctors roll their eyes and blame it on the patient, because surgery could never make things worse, can't be -that- bad, right, right?
Jan 09, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Physical Therapy after heel spur removal?
by: Marie

Hay there, Is Physical Therapy usually done after heel spur surgery??


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Joshua Comments:

Depends on the doctor and your particular scenario. Ranges from 'sometimes to usually'.


Dec 12, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		MRI still showing Bone Spur after surgery
by: Connie

I had Surgery Nov 9th 2017 for Plantar Facia and all Tarsal tunnel with all associated nerves cut.

I was never told not to stay off of it after surgery. Had major bleeding the day after that had soaked thru all the bandages.

Sent a picture to my Dr and he said it was fine. Had a follow up 3 days after surgery.

Instead of cleaning up all the blood they just applied more strips to the area that had split open. 7 days after that another follow up. Immediately after removing the bandages we all knew there was a major issue.

My foot looked like something out of a horror movie. INFECTED. Had to leave there and go to the infectious disease Dr. They took a sample of the area of green puss. Ended up being Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter cloacae complex which the Infectious Disease Dr said I could only have contrated at the hospital. one is know to be spread by feces. GROSS.

I was put on home health and have to give myself 2 Antibiotic IV treatments a day for 2 week. When I told my Surgeon what the infection was from he told me. " I understand your not happy but it is what it is at this point".

I have had to to get an MRI because they wanted to make sure the infection did not go to the bone. I have a lot of pain at the bottom of my tibia bone.

The MRI didn't show any infection got to the bone but did show subcutaneous edema overlying the medial malleolus with cellulitis, nonspecific subcutaneous edema overlying the medial malleolus, calcaneal spurs and bone island in mid talus.

Should I still have spurs after this surgery?

Also I have a history of osteogenic sarcoma so the bone island has me concerned. (lost my left leg above the knee to it)I am exhausted from trying to figure all this information. Need to know if I should go to another Dr for a second opinion?


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Joshua Comments:

1. They cut all the nerves? WHAT? REALLY? If that's true, that's terrible.

2. They didn't clean the wound/check the incision site they just layered more strips of gauze on?

REALLY?

Serious question: Was this surgery done in a third world country? It sounds like it, so far.


3. Did you have surgery to remove bone spurs? Then yes, the bone spurs should be gone (unless they had some good reason to leave them their, despite that being a major part of the reason for doing surgery in the first place.


4. I would absolutely go to a different doctor/hospital. Not for a second opinion, but for, hopefully, better doctors.


5. Pseudomonas is SERIOUS SERIOUS business. Make sure they're on top of that and get that dealt with.
Dec 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain after surgery wont go away
by: JOhnny

I had planatar fascia, had the surgery to release the tendons, 2 hr surgery due to dead tissue in the heel area had to be removed, much pain day 2, took tramadol, week 3 took out stitches, took about a week after surgery before i tried crutches, now few months afterward, no heel pain, now i have pain on top of my foot from ankle to toes.

Doc says could be a side effect of the surgery and put me in a cast for a week says tendonitiis from overuse, yet i cant exercise on the treadmill like i used to, pain wont go away, so now have a cast for a week.

I am so frustrated i want a handicap sticker and apply for disability, i was a very athletic person who now limps along wish i could just cut the foot off, too much pain, feels like a club foot now, i don't have much confidence in recovery, if it gets better let you know as i waited about 15 years before the surgery, other foot no issue and always wear orthotics.


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Joshua Comments:

The doctor said all the pain 'could' be a side effect of the surgery??? Seriously?

Is he seriously blaming 'tendonitis' as the cause of pain, not the pre-existing issue and the major trauma of surgery?

Did you actually have dead tissue in your foot? I'm guessing not as that's SERIOUS problem, so please confirm.


"if it gets better let you know"

I'm a fan of helping it get better, pushing it in smart ways to get better. I personally wouldn't leave it to time or hope, etc.
Oct 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Great info
by: Anonymous

Great info I'm on week 3, what a process, I was thinking it was me but looks like I'm on track with your recovery. I never dreamed it was going 2 b like this. I have been now using a boot and a walker, I have a scooter, wasn't allowed any weight on it for 2 weeks. Ugh
I TRULY can't wait 2 have my life back.

Hopefully it will be worth it. My incision is on the left foot, right side of my heel.
Sep 05, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel juts out instead of in
by: Christy

My problem is my right heel juts out instead of in.

I did something to inflame the tendon . Had to wear the boot for 7 weeks.

They can shave the part of my bone off that juts out but say the healing process is long because of being the heel.

Dr told me to wear boot when needed and try to avoid surgery. Take mobic( I can't take that forever) will shots help? I'm wearing my boot today . Not sure what I need to do at this point.


----



Joshua Comments:

I'm not sure what you mean.

What does 'juts out instead of in' mean?

Are you referring to a bone spur? If not, what would they shave off and why?
Aug 08, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Feeling frustrated
by: Anonymous

I have been dealing with chronic pain from plantar fasciitis for 13 years and I am a letter carrier for canada post( walking for hrs a day).

I have tried everything from physio, taping, ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, bracing, shockwave therapy, night splints, time off work on a number of occasions, I waited three weeks for this apt to get a referral to a surgeon then it took four months to get in for a consult with the surgeon only to be told he does not do the release surgery all he will do is cortisone injections.

I'm 39 had to quit the gym my husband gonna leave me because I can't do anything after work, I feel like I'm back at square one and i need to get fixed.

Any advice pls!!!!!!!


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Anonycarrier.

You've just experienced the classic canadian plantar fasciitis experience (hurt for a while, tried different things, saw a doctor, still hurt, etc). The only difference in the states is that it's quicker to see doctors (that prescibe things that often don't help).

There's lots of info and advice on this site, as far as why shots and braces and rest etc don't work, so feel free to read around.

As you have a husband and a job and a gym life on the line, I'll assert you don't need advice, you need a plan...and effective plan of attack.


I suggest the Plantar Fasciitis Treatment That Works program. You'll get a Quick Start ebook to start working with (a little more than half the program) then a couple weeks later a DVD (takes 2ish weeks to get to Canada for some reason...??)

it's what you need to fix the problem. And the problem is multifactored, primarily A. too tight muscles and connective tissue IN THE LOWER LEG NOT THE FOOT), B. inflammation process, and C. lack of nutrition (body can't work correctly).

Everything else you've tried failed because they didn't target one or more of the factors, and didn't effectively reverse all the factors.

Let me know if you have any questions.
Jul 13, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel Spur surgery, got to keep my shorts on.
by: Ms. Jo B.

I have just gone through heel spur surgery and from what I've read every clinic is different. I loved my out patient clinic.

I was able to keep my loose work out shorts on, along with a short sleeve tee shirt.

They just put a gown over my clothes. I didn't have to remove my nail polish on fingers or toes or my wedding set. The only thing I was asked to take out was my nose stud.

I felt no pain before or after because of a pain blocker. They gave me more of that than anesthetic so I didnt wake up all groggy and out of it, and again I felt no pain.

I woke up with a cast and was told to get a leg scooter which I did (loath crutches).

No putting weight on the foot at all until going back to see my Dr in 1 week, will then (I hope) get a walking boot, with limited walking to begin with.

I came home and other than using the bathroom laid down in bed or the couch with my leg propped up. Once the pain blocker had worn off it was uncomfortable but not agonizing. Pain pills helped.

The leg scooter I highly recommend. Once in a walking boot I will go between the scooter and crutches. My Dr told me it would be a long recovery but as long as I did what was told of me, it will be a full recovery.

So don't over do it the first couple of weeks ppl.
Jul 11, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Frustrated and out of a cast, feet still hurt want surgery
by: Lynn

I have been dealing with plantar fasciitis and a bone spur in both feet. I am on my third doctor. I just today had a cast removed from the second doctor. I have purchased 5 pairs of sneakers this year, was taped by 1st doctor, I have worn inserts, done stretches, the only thing I haven't done is ice and so far no doctor wants to surgically fix my foot.

I have been out of work for over 2 months because my job requires me to be on my feet for 8 hours a day and I walk on concrete floors and by the end of my shift the pain is unbearable and my feet are swollen.

I understand that everyone wants them to heal on their own, but THEY AREN'T!!!! I just want a doctor to see that I am that 5% that aren't healing on their own. I am beyond frustrated, my quality of life sucks right now.

I get that there may be issues as a result of the surgery but I also trust that doctors are trained for those issues. I really need to find a doctor who is willing to help give me my life back.

Don't know what to do????


----


Joshua Comments:

Doctors think that the bone spurs are going to heal on their own?? That may be what they're saying, but I don't believe it/them.

Wait.....you were in an actual cast? Not a post-surgery cast but a cast just to....immobilize your foot?

That's....well, that's the way of things these days. Crazy.


If you really want surgery, then you either need to:

A. find another doctor willing to do the surgery since you 'haven't responded to conservative treatments', or

B. wait a bit longer, and your current doctors will eventually throw up their shoulders and say "well, nothing else has worked, the only remaining option we have is surgery....so just like we hoped the other stuff would help..we're going to do surgery and hope that helps".


Depending on the size of the bone spurs, you may actually benefit from surgery. But if the spurs aren't that big, then you just have a poorly functioning lower leg/foot ecology, and The Plantar Fasciitis Treatment That Works program may very well be able to get you functional again (and if you get surgery, I highly suggest that you follow the program for post-surgery recovery).

More questions, more answers.
Jul 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Going Back For 2nd Surgery - VERY HAPPY
by: MamaB1

My first surgery, was fabulous - right foot - plantar facia release and bone spur removal (size of a large tooth doc stated :-).

While I didn't completely listen to the doctor (stubborn)...I was driving with my toes by day 3, and also the same day I chucked my crutches...to much of a pain and hassle (I know my body better than anyone, and I knew when to stop pushing myself)...

I think the doc knew I was not listening to him, but I was not doing damage and everything healing well. By second week I was doing gentle walking (VERY VERY SLOW) on the treadmill.

Still driving and walking in the store, using the cart for balance - it took a long time, but I enjoy staying active. Pain was very tolerable without the meds.

Back at work (with boot...week two)...no therapy. Now 2 years later, left foot has a larger spur (terribly painful...puts me to tears, but I thought the right foot was still worse), but I am excited to have it taken care of as of course, shots and exercise do not work ... but doc stated temporary fixes.

I think if you have a great doctor/surgeon and a positive attitude healing is much easier...always drama, not like open heart surgery or passing a kidney stone...(THAT IS PAIN).

Wishing everyone success with surgeries or therapy...I understand the pain is miserable, but find a good doctor and try and stay positive, you know what you can and cannot handle.

My heart and well wishes to you all. Love Mama
Jun 17, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel Spur
by: Jo

Thank you for a very informative description of your surgery. I'm getting my heel spur sorted in 3 weeks.

How long ago did you have your surgery and are you able to wear regular shoes now?

Thank you.
Jun 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Excellent 1st person account
by: Vanessa

April's experience is what I'm goibg thru.

Feeling pretty useless but it's a forced vacation.

I think if doctor's gave us a true timeline for recovery,no one would have the surgery!!!

Looking forward to improvement.
Jun 11, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		planta facias, bandages bleeding, no appointment for 11 more days
by: Anonymous

Had my operations on hammer toe and plantar fasiac only been 6 days ago and now it's bled through my dressing on the bottom of my foot.

Wasn't told not to walk on it and given no crutches Not due to go back to hospital till 21st another 11 days.

No dressing change has been arranged.


----


Joshua Comments:

Wasn't told not to walk on it? Seriously??

And no crutches or other methods of staying off the foot?

That's....bad.

Did you walk on it?


I'd definitely get a second opinion about waiting 11 more days for a dressing change. And depending on how much it's bleeding....might really need to get that looked at.

If it's open, if it's bleeding, then you SHOULD get that looked at so they can visualize the wound, make sure it's clean so avoid infection, etc.

If you walked on it and tore the stitches or equivalent, that's bad.

And get crutches and/or a knee walker or whatever. (They may have told you post surgery, but that's dumb because people literally don't remember due to the anesthesia etc.)
May 23, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Still having pain
by: Anonymous

I had surgery back in 2002 and is still having weakness in my foot,ankles,leg and knee.

I did everything the same as above,but the pain still exists.


Apr 29, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I had my surgery Jan 6 2017
by: Joanne

Hi , I had the plantar faicia released n heal spur taken off , I still have numbness n pain but not like I did before the surgery.

Listen to your dr stay off your foot for at least 6 weeks ! I get a numbness as well but I can deal with it ! Wear the right shoes as well !


Apr 18, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		How is there such a difference between Canada and the US?
by: Jen

Ok so I read a lot of these review and they sound horrible! However the Canadian ones not so bad? I just had my surgery done last Thursday. 45 minute out patient procedure. Back to work already Monday. Desk work only for now, but I do have to hop up and down a bunch of stairs to get here. Still no weight bearing, still fully wrapped and in crutches. A little tingling and numbness, not much pain. Ice helps a lot. However I live alone, had a very challenging day after surgery, and yes my house isn't as clean. However as long as some one drives me around ( it was done on my right foot) I can get by. Everything is way more exhausting and time consuming, and I am a 33 year old in good shape, but overall very happy so far. Had 2 shots and tried everything else under the sun before surgery, with no relief. I know this is early in the recovery to comment, but overall positive thus far.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Jen.

Keep us updated!
Apr 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery to remove bone spur on heel caused by planter facia
by: Carol Templeman Rader

I had surgery Feb 4, so it has been two months now. I chose surgery as I had exhausted every avenue available to alleviate pain. My pain was constant and cortisone shots and physical therapy did not help.

After outpatient surgery in a boutique hospital, I was sent home with bandages from my foot to my knee which I worn for three weeks. I was told not to put weight on my foot and we rented a scooter for my use in navigating my house, the barn where I had my horses and store. My surgery was on my left foot so after a couple of weeks I was able to drive. Unfortunately My family is needy and spoiled rotten, and I felt forced to get up many times to feed myself and even cook dinner for them. My house got messy because I was not able to work very long without becoming exhausted. If I unloaded the dishwasher, cooked dinner or went to feed my horses I paid for it by more pain and swelling. My husband and daughter took over my barn chores, but as time progressed they let me do it. I did, because my husband is in bad physical condition and I felt like I could do it easier than he could. My daughter was swamped with college classes, homework, her job and single motherhood.

My husband makes 6 figures but talks poor mouth. He did not hire any help for me when I was supposed to be on full bedrest. When I returned to get the bandages off and my stitches out, there was a large blister from rubbing my wound as I had to put weight on my foot to cook or do necessities. Then the doctor put a hard cast on my foot for another month. I really disliked the cast. Again I was not supposed to put any weight on my foot, but with family pressure, I did. I think for the healing process I probably would have been better off alone. But with family demands I survived. The cast finally came off and doc wants me to wear a boot. The boot is two inches higher than my other leg. After walking for even a little while, my hips really hurt. That may be my next problem. I am careful with my foot because I know it is fragile. The doctor warned me to be very careful. Recently I noticed a burning sensation when I am resting, and often I feel stinging pain on the left side of my foot.

I have a prescription of hydrocodine which I break in half to help with pain, especially at night so I can sleep. I hope this pain will subside soon. I found this site because I'm looking for homemade remedies to help control pain. I have been reinforcing my foot with elastic sports tape when I know I will be walking, which does help. I also wear socks for diabetics- I am type A, and I need to buy a new pair of supportive tennis shoes.

I would have the surgery again. i do not have nearly as much pain as before surgery, and each day is better. Today I actually walked my dog around the block- the first time in a year. I am looking forward to being "normal". It is a quality of life issue that I need to keep improving, and I am excited to be able to walk almost normally again. I miss the active life I once had. I hope one day I will be ballroom dancing. Reaching my Goals- one step at a time.❤️
Mar 21, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Still hurting after heel spur removal 6 months ago
by: Anonymous

I had heel spur surgery about 6 months ago was out of work four months and still deal with my feet swelling and hurting worse than before surgery. Almost in tears when I get off work. Nothing helps with the pain.



Mar 05, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		heel spur and plantar facia surgery back to work 4 days later
by: MA

Wow I feel fortunate compared to April. I had the surgery on Friday & back to work Tuesday.

I spent no time in bed, 1st couple days crutches and boot, then a cane and boot and now just a boot. Surgery was Feb. 10/17 and boot comes off March 15th.

I'm from Canada so maybe it was done differently. No back pain, some itching and burning along my incision but that's about it.

I've been cleaning my house cause no else will for about 2 weeks. Took one of the dogs for a 45 minute walk. I was tired after the walk but foot pain remained the same as when I first headed out. I am going to be 59 shortly so I'm no spring chicken.

Since it was my left foot I am able to drive.

Hubby drove for the 1st week then I was on my own.

I hope April's condition improves:)
Feb 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Nerve damage after foot surgery, three days after
by: Anonymous

Did you have sural nerve injury before the surgery?

Why exactly do you think you have a sural nerve injury?

I did not have nerve damage before the surgery.

The doctor has verified that there is definite nerve damage and it "might" have been a result of surgery.

All I know for certain is that I did not have problems with nerves before surgery and after surgery, I have no feeling in my foot over the sural nerve.

About three days after surgery, I had a sudden, massive pain in my foot and after that, no feeling.

The nerve damage does not cause any side effects but it does create a strange sensation when you rub your hand over the area.


----


Joshua Comments:

Well....either you have actual nerve damage (a nicked, cut, and/or severed nerve), or the swelling and resulting tightness, and/or change in the architecture of your foot post-severing a major structural support, is seriously compressing the nerve(s).
Feb 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel pain still 7 months after heel spur removal
by: Mitchell Harris

I had my heel operated on about 7 months ago it hurts worse now than it did before I had my bone spur removed.

I went through all the steps that I was supposed to do after surgery is staying off of it for a month then doing my little exercises putting ice on it and everything else but I cannot walk on it for a full day it just kills me to walk on it.

What is happening it should have healed by now does anybody know what I can do because I no longer have insurance and I feel like I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place.


----


Joshua Comments:

It hurts worse and the same or worse and different?
Feb 11, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Gastric recession with bone spur removal and plantar fasciotomy
by: Anonymous

My left foot surgery was April 29, 2016. I took 4 days off work, much to my doctors chagrin. I did use a knee scooter and was non weight bearing for a full month. Recovery was very slow.

When it came time for my second surgery, I was skeptical. Second surgery was September 23, 2016. Again, back to work within a week but I knew the tricks this time to make it easier.

After the second surgery, I did one month of physical therapy to help with pain relief on both feet. When I was released from physical therapy, I still had trouble walking without pain.

Now, early February, I am virtually pain free. I have been able to return to my normal activities with very few limitations.

Overall, I believe that the surgery was a success.

My only remaining negative side effect from the surgeries is a sural nerve injury in the right foot. I will probably never get the feeling back but it doesn't effect my gait at all.


----


Joshua Comments:

Did you have sural nerve injury before the surgery?

Why exactly do you think you have a sural nerve injury?
Feb 10, 2017
Rating
starstar 		Wasn't that bad...
by: Jenn

I was told right off the bat that I won't be putting any weight on my foot for "at least" 6-8 weeks.

I had surgery to remove a heel spur on my right foot 3 weeks ago as of today. I'm still not putting any weight on my foot, however I'm far from bedridden.

The first few days i didn't feel anything other than an obnoxious amount of itching that i couldn't actually feel when i scratched due to the 72 hour block (which was heaven sent)...

My doctor told me to still take my hydrocodone to prevent spasms, which i did, but boy, when that block wore off, i had one good night of crying myself to sleep because i couldn't control the pain with meds.

I doubled my pain medicine, and started to take 2 hydrocodone every 3 hours and 4 ibuprofen at the next 3rd hour, in rotation. I did this for 2 days and weaned myself off all meds on the third.

I've had one trip to the doctor the week after surgery, and stitches come out next week. But although i know there's pain, it was bearable.

I invested in a knee scooter which made life so much easier... I'm still able to cook for my kids and husband, i can still fold laundry and wash dishes.

I balance on one foot in the shower, with my splinted foot resting on my scooter, it's like become my new bff.

I cleaned up a bottle of mustard that dropped when i was making a sandwich (it was awkward but doable) I've had a bit of swelling and my big toe hurts at times when i stretch it, like it's pulling a tendon or something.. and after my first appointment they wrapped it too tightly and every time I elevated my foot it felt like it was on fire. Hubby rewrapped it and it stopped.

I do agree that the doctor has a lot to do with recovery (how gentle they are during the procedure and such) and each patient reacts differently to pain, but i don't agree that (unless you want to be) you'll be bedridden for weeks/months. It does limit you, but I was up and cooking dinner the night of my surgery.

I can say tho that i do get more "relaxation" time, and plenty of reading time, but I'm not confined to my bed. I even crawl up and down my stairs. ;) point is, your only limitation is whatever you can/cannot do without bearing weight on that foot.

I'm not big on whining about my problems.

I seen this surgery as a couple months of pain being better than a lifetime of it. One foot down, one to go. The pain only last until it goes away. Best of luck y'all!


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Jenn.

Thanks for sharing your surgery experience.

1. Seriously, knee scooters are the way to go!

2. "my big toe hurts at times when i stretch it, like it's pulling a tendon or something"

It is.

3. You're right everybody's different, their scenario is different, etc.

4. "but i don't agree that (unless you want to be) you'll be bedridden for weeks/months. "

Your severe pain went away after a couple of days. Not everybody's does. Imagine if you hurt that bad for a week, or a month.

Some people are up and at 'em a couple days later. Other never get back up. Obviously there's a range in between those two extremes.

I definitely agree that people should plan on being up and active, plan to make the down time more enjoyable and the recovery as easy as possible (knee scooter, pre-made meals, somebody to come clean up/do dishes, etc).
Feb 06, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		This is the "TRUE" recovery time; not what doctors or textbooks tell you.
by: Anonymous

First of all, I would like to thank you for sharing your "non-textbook" experience! Secondly, your sense of humor is outstanding.

Your experience is identical to what I am currently experiencing. My surgery was Jan. 17, 2017. Estimated Return to Work Date is in a week. There is absolutely no way in hell I am capable of returning to work.

I hope many people read this and share it. It is factual.
Jan 17, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Plantar Fascia Surgery recovery after a two weeks of bed rest
by: Kristen

I got surgery on the 6th of January and have been on bed rest since that day.

Now, I'm extremely active.

So I listened when the doctor told me no weight bearing for a week. I go back to the doctor on Thursday, the 12th, and they tell me another week with no weight on it.

I'm the type of person that will fight through the pain and not listen to every single word the doctor says. So if the doctor tells me on my next appointment in 3 days that I "shouldn't" walk on it, screw that.

Point is, don't listen to every single word the doctor tells you. They're never 100 percent.


----


Joshua Comments:

I generally agree.

Having said that, when a surgeon severs a major structural support on your foot, it's generally a good idea not to 'fight through the pain'.

If it works out, great. If you tear and damage even more structural supports in the foot, not so great.
Nov 01, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain and needles
by: Anonymous

I had my surgery a month ago and been wearing the boot 2 weeks after the staples my tendon is burning and feels like needles jammed in it plus I can see the tendon my arch is so high now .

Hope it's a passing thing.
Oct 14, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heel spur surgery not recommended
by: Ruth

I had heel spur surgery right before Memorial Day 2016 after struggling with plantar fasciitis for a year and a half.

It is now October 2016 and I am still suffering with pain. The incision was very small through my heel however the drill slipped off the spur when the doctor was grinding and hit my foot bone.

I was awake with four nerve blocks and felt it. Excruciating pain. He says no damage was done.

I have tried ice, heat, ointments, soaking, rest, new shoes, orthotics and I am now changing my diet to a ketogenic diet to see if that helps.

The pain is aching around the outside of my heel, sometimes shooting pains right in the center of the heel, sometimes electric-type shocks in my big toe.

I advise everyone I meet with heel spurs and plantar fasciitis to seriously reconsider surgery and instead ice the area, rest the foot and wear the best running shoes they can afford.

I just pray this isn't a lifetime sentence of pain.
Sep 13, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cannot spread my baby toe and toe beside it month after foot surgery
by: Anonymous

I had a heel spur surgery done also.....a month has gone by, I am out of my booth, but I can't spread my toes like I use to.
Aug 27, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surgery April 29, 2016
by: Anonymous

Surgery to lengthen Achilles tendon and fascia, and remove heel spur. 4 months, still constant pain. Went back to work (Home Depot) at 5 days post op on a knee scooter. Used the scooter for 4 weeks. Total non weight bearing.

Transitioned to weight bearing over two weeks. Then just boot for two weeks. Transitioned into shoe over two weeks.

Severe pneumonia during weeks five and six forced about two weeks of constant bedrest. Now, constant shooting burning pain in heel, possibly pad, with every step and even in rest.

Looking for relief if any options. Using essential oils for pain which helps some. Next foot is supposed to be done in three weeks and I am scared that the first one isn't healed enough first. Doc wants to proceed. Ideas? Thoughts?



----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Anonymous.

Well of course the surgeon wants to proceed with surgery....(which isn't a good sign).


1. What if any self care did your doctor/surgeon have you do?

2. Did you take Cipro or Levaquin or any other Fluoroquinolone antibiotic for the pneumonia?

3. Read through this thread, follow the links and read those pages too. Especially the 'How To Reduce Inflammation' one.
Aug 25, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ankle pain
by: Sandra

I had a heel spur removed April 2016.
My dr. Never recommended physical therapy to me and my ankle is weak and it is has been four months. Should I have had pt and if so is it still an option to strengthen my ankle?


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Sandra.

It's never to late to start exercise/strengthening/rehab etc. So yes, PT is still an option. Have them get your mobility/range of motion/strength back.

Should you have had PT? Probably. But doctors generally aren't great about anything post surgery. They do the surgery, and 'good luck to you!'
Aug 23, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Recovery
by: Fretful

I am at week 4 and 4 days. Still in bed 70% of the time.

I have scooted myself on my rear out to my balcony and pulled myself up in the swing with my foot in a chair with cushions. I cannot stand for my heel to touch anything.

If my foot us down for a few minutes it becomes numb. Morse so than the numbness from my little toe down the middle of my foot. I have stairs. I slide down them and crawl back up. My knees are killing me. I have a lot of pain and burning in my achilles and my heel.

I side of the arch the incisions was not closed after the stitches came out and became infected. The incision down the tendon is still sore and the bone.

The surgeon informed me that he cut 99% of the bone. I love to can my own garden vegetables but cannot this year. I believe my foot hurts more now than after the surgery.

My arches on both feet broke when I was in the Army. A lot of my problems with my feet are due to the injuries. I can it put a regular shoe on my foot nor walk just a few steps. When I do the pain increases.

Bathing, let's just say you have to get inventive. When will the numbness finally leave and my foot heals enough to walk. Need to hire someone to clean my house. This surgery either will cure OCD or send you to a nut house.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Fretful.

It's 4 weeks and the inciscions still haven't healed?

That's a big problem. (Also, you would be well advised not to take any fluoroquinolone antibiotic like Cipro, Levaquin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, avelox, etc for any infection.)


What does "cut 99% of the bone" mean? Does that mean he removed 99% of the bone spur?

Where was the bone spur? What did the procedure involve?
Jul 10, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Biggest mistake I made
by: Jackie

Had bone spur removed surgeon went in through inside of my foot. Surgery was 11 months ago!! I STILL have pain but now it affects my ankle and calf muscle.

Physical therapy helped a bit but once your insurance caps out, I was out the door even though I was not any better.

Went back to orthopedic who did surgery and was like WTF!! He sent me back for more therapy. If this don't help he said my next move is cortisone injections. I have constant pain and stiffness. It makes me irritated.

I cannot do simple things like shopping because after an hour my ankle hurts. It's brutal!! Biggest mistake I ever made. Thinking of getting another opinion!!

Any suggestions is appreciated!!


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Jackie.

Sorry to hear that.

What have you done for self care so far, over those 11 months, aside from PT?
May 12, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Group ex instructor
by: Anonymous

I also teach and taught group exercise prior to double foot surgery of heel Spurs and fascia release. You were lol definitely be back within 6 months.
May 12, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Achilles tendonitis/heel spur surgery
by: Sheri

I'm a 56 yr old group exercise instructor & I've been teaching high & low intensity group fitness classes for over 26 years.

Needless to say after 26 years of teaching 3-4 classes daily I developed a heel spur on the back of my heel which attributed to my Achilles tendonitis.

I wore a boot for 8 weeks, & did physical therapy 2x a week for 6 weeks prior to my surgery.

The physical therapy helped to some degree & I was able to strengthen my good leg which has helped me after surgery.

I elected to do surgery because of my job. Surgery went well, and I wore a soft cast for 2 weeks. I have been in a boot for 2 weeks n have another 6 weeks to go.

I started walking in my boot at the 1 month from surgery mark. Physical therapy will start in 2 weeks. I have a wedge in my boot n will reduce the wedge size has I get stronger n can walk w/my heel all the way to the ground.

I recommend an orthopedic surgeon not a podiatrist. They seem to know the ins & outs of how the muscles tendons and joints all work together & they are a little more sensitive to your everyday needs.

I know I am just staring the rehabilitation back to normalcy. I was told within 6-8 months I would be back to 92-96%. I'm shooting for the 6 month mark. Am I being realistic with this time period.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Sheri.

'Realistic' is very relative. If you are overall healthy, and very positive and motivated, that increases your odds. If your physical therapist is good, that increases the odds.

My bias is to deal with the factors that caused the bone spur in the first place (because surgery doesn't get rid of those and can make those factors worse).

It's definitively possible to be back in action at six months, but it definitely takes some time and effort (and some efforts have better outcomes than others...)


Let me know if you have any questions and keep us updated on your progress.
May 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Recovery wasnt that bad for me.
by: Anonymous

I was back on my feet 3 days after i had my surgeries. No pain meds taken. I was back in regular shoes and back to life and work in three weeks.


Apr 15, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Gastrocnemius release one year to know results
by: Anonymous

Post op 4 weeks today. Pain started back in my arch yesterday. My calve muscle is feeling better but the first 3 weeks was incredibly painful.

Idk if I would do it again or not.

Dr said results could take upto a year to know.


Mar 25, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Long recovery
by: Famousshoelady

This site so awesome. Just 4 week post op surgery on rt foor- bone spur and repaired the tendon. In a boot for 4 weeks then therapy. Only thing that bothering me now is the incision. The boot rubs on it.

Anyone that has this surgery done I do recommend that you have people help you. Thank God I have the most amazing husband and kids to help their helpless mama! Good luck on your recovery! ♡


Mar 25, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Two Infections and Wound Dihesence from dissolovable stitches
by: Anonymous

My surgery was 2/5. I'm now about 7 weeks post op and back to nwb.

I've developed two infections due to a complication no one warned me about-wound dihesence.

I was expecting the usual three weeks down maybe 1-2 weeks in the boot but never thought I would be here this long. My body is rejecting the dissolvable stitches which is adding to the problem.

As you consider this surgery I encourage you to discuss all possible complications with your doctor as I didn't get this and never really saw anything about in the forums and blogs.

Try all alternative treatments first, unfortunately none of those worked for me and my spur continued to grow and my pain was unbearable most days before I finally gave in to surgery.

Good luck to those considering this option and well wishes to those in recovery.
Mar 14, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Recovery time from Heel Spur Surgery
by: Anonymous

There is no definite answers to the recovery time of the Heel Spur surgery. What the doctors do not tell you is recovery time and most of the time they say is long recovery and recovery is indeed LONG.

I had the surgery to remove of the Heel Spur in Feb 2015 from my right foot. I followed all post surgery instructions from the doctor (was off weight for almost 2.5 months, did PT for months, iced daily, changed shoes).

It's more than a year now and I still have pain.

It is getting better slowly but I'm not sure if the pain would go away completely. My case seems to be that my nerves got cut during the surgery and that is taking a long time to heal, together with the internal scaring where the incision was made.

My advice would be if you can afford not to have the surgery and take care of the pain otherwise (wear right shoes, lots of icing every day to keep the inflammation and lot of rest) then do so. For some people it has worked but not for me.

I have the heel Spur in the other feet but lot of resting and listening to my body as when to get off the feet has helped. I don't think I would go for the next feet. I can't do a lot if things that I could do before.

Hope this help someone who is planning to go for this Surgery. All the best.
Feb 28, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Achilles Tendon Repair
by: KD

I had Achilles Tendon repair on on July 17, 15, had PT, then pain started again a few months later.

Dr claims my body was rejecting the hardware he used to anchor the Achilles' tendon. He performed calcaneus surgery in November 15 to removed the screws. My pain today is severe and way worst than even before the first surgery.

I am a runner and now I can't even walk without crying out in pain. The Doctor keeps telling me that my body is just taking long to heel, but this to me is not normal.

He has ordered a bone stimulator and prescribe Methylprednisolone for inflammation along with more pain medication. Nothing seems to work. I need help and I'm located in South Florida.


---


Joshua Comments:

Hi KD.

1. What does 'Achilles tendon repair' mean, specifically in your case?

2. What is your vitamin D level (no, being a runner in florida doesn't guarantee your levels are up where they should be)? If your vit D is low that is, long story short, going to affect a lot of things including how well/fast your bone can heal.


Let's start there.
Feb 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not ready for surgery yet
by: Anonymous

What types of orthotics have been the most helpful in relieving heel pain? I've bought inserts from the good feet store and they have been somewhat helpful but not good enough.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hello Anonymous.

I don't have orthotics recommendations as I don't deal with them as I focus on 'fixes' to problems.

Having said that, they help a lot of people.

Hopefully you'll get feedback here.
Jan 18, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Choose your doctor carefully
by: Karen

I commented well over a year ago about struggling with my recovery and I wanted to update you.

I had a bone spur removed and fascia release in July 2014. My surgery was done by a podiatrist.

I didn't heal, in fact I was still worse 10 months later.

The podiatrist was rather condescending when I told him that I felt worse than before surgery.

I got a second opinion from a well regarded foot and ankle orthopedist. He did an MRI ( which my podiatrist had never ordered, neither before or after surgery) and my Achilles' tendon was a mess.

It hadn't properly attached so there was a lot it thickening where it had and it was shredded looking in others, and bone had grown from the irritation in several places.

I had surgery again in March. It was not easy to go through a revision, to miss 3 more months of work, to start PT all over again and do it for 7 more months.

I'm now 10 months out. I don't limp anymore. I can go for walks if I stay off concrete. I still shop online because concrete floors hurt after a while.

My foot is still a little swollen. I can wear athletic shoes or some good, lacing ankle boots only.

I still ice at the end of the day, but I'm still improving. My surgeon told me to expect all this. He said I would heal for 12 months plus, since it was a complicated revision of a surgery done differently than he would have done it.

My bottom line is this: go and see a foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon, not a podiatrist.

This is a very complex surgery. The recovery is long, and you need to have a surgeon who does a lot of these surgeries.

In my experience, a podiatrist is not that.

Once I told the podiatrist that I got a second opinion and needed surgery again, my formerly nice podiatrist became quite unlikable, even though I called him as a courtesy and was not angry or in anyway threatening, he refused to get on the phone with me. I had been his patient for 10 years.

This is not a surgery to be entered into lightly. Get a second and third opinion. Do PT ( my podiatrist said it was unnecessary). Expect a very long haul.

I am only just now doing more than working and coming home.

Good-luck to all of you.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Karen.

Thanks for the update and the words of wisdom.

Despite the long haul and the necessary second surgery, I''m glad you're finally doing better!
Jan 07, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Taking forever after plantar fascia surgery on 11/9/15
by: Anonymous

I had surgery 11/9/15 and just started pt yesterday. It's like learning to walk again.

How long did it take you to feel fully recovered?

I feel like it's taking forever but in reality it's only been 2 months.

I wear the boot sometimes when the foot feels overworked or is painful, otherwise I'm wearing regular shoes and doing ok. The foot still hurts a lot more than before the surgery. I guess that's my biggest concern.

Going through this and it not working would be awful. The plan was to do the other foot after the first one was healed enough, now I'm not so sure.


Nov 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Concerns about post operative plan - Bi lateral surgery
by: Anonymous

I had both feet done on Oct. 23rd. Both legs were put in fiberglass casts.

It's day 8 post op and I am in my Lazy Boy 24/7 having both legs elevated on pillows, except to scoot my butt to the wheelchair to go to the bathroom.

I have a walker in the BR and take at best 3 to 4 steps.Basically I walk with 'toe touch' as it hurts too bad if I attempt to walk full footed. I have 'cast shoes'for better balance.

I am a small woman only weighing 107 pounds - until I've been eating all the Halloween candy ;-) so my weight is not a big factor, I'd think . I am still having pain and am not sleeping well.

I see the Dr. next week which will be only 12 days post op. My concern is that he'll want to take the casts off and put me in a walking boot. Even though the casts are a royal pain I'd like opinions about casts vs boot for immobilization and hopefully a more positive result from the surgery.

Dr had said preop 3 weeks in casts again concern is that long enough for healing.

I'd really appreciate any input from ones that have gone though this.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Anonymous.

You had major, traumatic surgery on the weight bearing structures of your body 8 days ago.

Yes, you should still be hurting. Or at least, it's incredibly unsurprising that you are still hurting/can't walk, etc.

3 weeks may or may not be enough time, depending on how much damage was inflicted on your feet. But I would definitely factor in 3 weeks of down time.

Keep your toes and ankles moving just a little bit while in bed/chair, just to keep things moving and muscles/nerves firing. Immobilization isn't great, so keep thing's moving even -just- a little.

I imagine that you didn't get any effective self-care from your surgeon, so make sure to read this entire thread and follow all the links.
Sep 30, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		2 weeks post surgery
by: April

Hello

Today is Sept 30, 2015 and I had surgery on Sept 16th. Here is the list of things that were done to me.
1. Bone fragments removed from tendons along the arch of my foot, tendon repair.
2. Bone spur removed/shaved.
3. Achilles tendon removed, calf muscle extended to my foot.
4. Achilles tendon re-attached.

I'm not in much pain although my heel is very tender. I was sent home in a partial cast, but a week and a half later had to switch to a walking boot (with a heel wedge) because the cast was rubbing the bottom side of the heel. OUCH! I have been putting weight on my foot but at the same time using 2 crutches. Shouldn't my achilles be hurting more than my heel? I wear my boot all the time except for in bed. Could I have done something to my heel or is this normal because a bone has been shaved down?

Thanks!
April


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Joshua Comments:
Hi April.

What doe this mean? "Achilles tendon removed, calf muscle extended to my foot."

They surely didn't remove the entirety of the achilles tendon.

Does the heel hurt where they removed the bone spur? If so, then no it's not surprising that that hurts more. Damage to bone is painful stuff.

See the 'bone spur' link down the thread.
Sep 19, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I had both feet done and was told to go to work the next day
by: maryann

Oh my. I had both feet done on same day.

Dr told me to get right back to work. No pain no gain. Never said a word about therapy. I am so upset.

I've lost my :/ because I went back after 1 days which I knew was too soon.

I went with stitches in both feet. Oh my I get like I was gonna die.

I had surgery the fourth of this month. It's now the 19th. My feet are numb. It hurts to walk. I finally got a hold oh Dr office asking for pain meds. He refused to etc me have them.

Said to use anti inflammatory meds.I have sharp pains. I walk a little then stop. I went to work on the 15th. That was the day I decided enough. W

ork has told me they want to put me on a different shift. I'm a can. If I can't walk on one shift, how can I walk on any other. So I've called in. After the first call in I was told my call ins are adding up. So I think I'm about t be fired. For trying to better myself. I ruined my career.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Maryann.

Surgery on both feet and told to go to work the next day??

That's crazy.

I'm no legal expert, but you may have a very good malpractice case there. Both feet on same day (regularly done, no big deal), told to go back to work the next day (crazy), told to go back to work with stitches in feet (the very next day what??), no therapy or post-surgery advise? (really?), etc.

I of course hope you don't lose your job, but you REALLY need to stay off your feet, ice dip to help lower pain levels, etc.

Surgery causes WOUNDS. Walking on fresh wounds is a bad idea. I don't know what that doctor was thinking, even minor surgery (which plantar fascia release is not) requires rest/recover/NOT putting all your weight on top of the wound.

Maybe consider seeing another doctor to get a note to 'excuse' calling in from work (not sure how that works so you'll need to investigate).

Did he actually say 'no pain no gain'?
Sep 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstar 		2 foot surgeries and debridement, still in pain months later
by: A.P.

Had 2surgeries in 8mnths. I'm so relieved to hear other stories from other people.

I feel alone, & would love to hear from others in the same situation.

I was in pain before the surgeries & now it seems endless. My first surgery, was removal & a little debriding of a spur& tendon.

The 2nd, was complete smoothing of the heel bone& and taking a big toe tendon to lengthen the Achilles. I am now a little over 2 months of the 2nd surgery, & it's been the hardest thing to get through.

I'm not making much progress.

Not, sure if I should've done this at all. Any body have a similar experience????


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi A.P.

That's no good!

What are you doing for post-surgery self care?

What is the dr. saying about the surgery incision not healing? It should be.

The surgery you had is a major trauma to the body, so pain etc is to be expected, and for a good long while.

But if your incisions still aren't healing after 2+ months, you need to see your doctor about that.

And increase your nutrition, overall. If you don't have what your body needs, then it can't heal very well.

Get your Vitamin D level checked while you're at it.
Sep 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Achilles tendinitis surgery
by: A.P.

I my self have had 2surgeries, within 8 months. I am in pain & have no idea what to do.

My first surgery nov. 10,14'. Removal and debriding of tendon & bone spur.

June 18th, 15', shaving down heel bone & taking tendon from big toe to lengthen Achilles' tendon.

This has changed my life. I was miserable before, & miserable now. I googled & found this site.

Please, anybody, that is in this same situation please, let me know.

My incision hasent healed, completely, & I am so stiff. I feel like my life is over. I have a family, & I want to work & a life to live.

Any comments would be so helpful.


Jul 30, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Still in pain with numbness several months post plantar fascia surgery
by: pam

I am several months post op..my foot is still numb I still have pain I am clueless on what to do.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hello Pam.

I'm so sorry to hear that!

1. Read this entire thread, and follow the links you find here (and read those pages).

2. Describe your pre-surgery scenario.

3. What exactly did they do during surgery?

4. What did they tell you do post-surgery?
Jul 29, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Z Coil shoes work!!!
by: Susan

I had a failed plantar fascia release heel spur surgery two years ago. I got a painful neuroma in the bottom of my foot and could hardly walk on both feet. It feels like I'm walking in glass shards.

After trying many type of heel spur shoes, I bought slightly used Z Coil tennis shoes on Ebay. They are supposed to be fitted to you but I got lucky, they are amazing!

I can walk much longer than before with almost zero pain. I highly recommend trying them.

They do run 1/2 size small, so ordered up.
Jul 29, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ended up having surgery
by: Jean

I have dealt with planter faciatia and heal Spurs for a while. Had surgery on my left foot many years ago.

I just recently In May 2015 had surgery on my right foot. Surgery went well, about 45 minutes. Was given the boot when I left the surgery center mainly to keep it from being bumped. I opted to only take off one week from work and then return. Mostly desk work after my surgery. Used the boot and crutches for 3 1/2 weeks.

I just went for my 4th post op visit and doctor cleared me to try a shoe some along with the boot. It's a little difficult and painful. My foot is still swelling by end of day.

I have another post op visit in three weeks.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Jean.

Keep us updated!
Jul 19, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Calcaneal Osteotomy and plantar fasciotomy
by: Val

I had a calcaneal osteotomy and plantar fasciotomy in January 2014. I strongly recommend against doing this. My foot is way worse.

I not only have cramping in my foot and calf, but also my heal pain worsened and now have pain in the joint of my big toe.

I can only be on my feet for 30 or so minutes before I have pain in the heal. My foot is way worse.

Avoid surgery if you can!!!
Jun 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I'm lucky
by: Anonymous

I had both feet done in July, 2013, bone spurs in both and fascia release.

I was cleared to workout after 2 days with no weight bearing.

I was cleared to ride the bike after one week. And was teaching full fitness classes after 5 weeks.

The first day was unbelievably painful, but on day 2, I was walking in my boots. I put my feet up on a furniture dolly and pulled myself around the house on my hands.

I couldn't shower until the incisions closed and that was quite some time due to having an allergy to the internal stitches.

My body rejected them leaving the wounds open longer than normal and pushing the stitches to the surface. After 2 years, I still have numbness in my heels, but my surgeon said that was normal.

Good luck to everyone having surgery. I hope you all are as lucky with recovery as I was. :)
Jun 07, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		plantar facia reease and heel spurs removal in both feet
by: lynda

Had plantar facia release and heel spur removal in both feet 7 weeks ago, still in a lot of pain don't feel any better pain in heels are still there and plantar facia is still stiff.

I can't walk properly or put heels down without pain has anyone else had this done and had problems still feel like the heel spurs are still there.
May 26, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		help
by: pam

I had Achilles graft in Nov. 2 weeks ago I had bone spur removed from heal.

I can't walk without shoe on and have a large numb spot anyone else have issues.
May 20, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Prayers for You!
by: Angelia

I have had excruciating pain in my heels (both) for a month now. Can't put either of them on the ground for very long.

I have Fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and a few other ailments and thought this was just chronic pain.

I can tell it's different. It's as if someone shoved a stick in my heels and just left it there. Hurts all the time but worse when I'm trying to rest them.

I ice them several times a day and use over the counter pain meds. No help really. Reading this terrifies me to even go to the dr! Praying you have healed by now and are doing ok!
Apr 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Help! I had plantar Fascititis release and heel bone spur Jan 30th
by: Barbara P.

Jan. 30th I had surgery to do Plantar Fasciitis release and bone spur.

I was in a temporary splint after surgery for 2 days. The second day I was in the worst pain imaginable. It was burning.

Called the Dr. And he told me to loosen up the splint because it was to tight.

The next morning a cast was put on my foot. The skin on my foot was dark purple and agreed it was to tight. I called the Dr the next day of having my cast on and told him I was in so much pain and just said it was caused by swelling.

I elevated my foot , no weight bearing. I just got up to go to the bathroom, I keep calling the Dr about the cast my top of my foot was numb and it was having burning sensations.

He told me it was cast anxiety. This went on for 4 1/2 weeks. The day my cast came off the dark purple/brown on the top of my foot was still there. He pulled the skin off my foot and told me to put my shoe on and walk.

I thought he was crazy. I had been on a knee scooter this whole time. So I got up with my shoe on and almost feel on my face. Told to start walking. By the time it got home I had blisters on the top of my foot and I was in very bad pain.

I called the Dr. And he acted like I was crazy. He did prescribe medication. I have done all exercises, stretches . I still have numbness 9 weeks post op. Severe burning in my whole foot, swelling my heel is twice the size of my other heel and is very painful.

I'm at my wits end and don't know what to do?


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Barbara.

Ouch.

Well, the question is, is the numbness from damage done during the surgery (cut a nerve, or resulting inflammation/compression), or is it from swelling/inflammation/compression from the too tight cast?

Was it the temp cast that was too tight that caused the black and blue, or?

Was the black and blue there from the surgery?

Was the black and blue from the NEW cast being too tight?
Jan 28, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Advice for post-op?
by: TexasChick

I've had Plantars Fasciitis on and off for seven years, generally aggravated by being on my feet for the full day. For the past seven months, and more so during the past four months the pain has there more often that not. I've tried the night splint, lacrosse/golf balls, slant board, elastic bands, shoe inserts, deep issue massage, icing - everything.

Today I went to a foot/ankle surgeon. Turns out I do have Plantars, but I also have a large heel spur and two entrapped nerves (Baxter's nerve, and a carpal-something nerve). He was surprised that I had not moved beyond non-invasive treatments long before now.

So.. .surgery is scheduled for Monday and you would know my spouse leaves town on Tuesday for two days. Our nanny can help me during the day, but I'm wondering what I should do/buy to prepare for recovery.

I'm definitely getting a leg elevator thing because I want my foot to stay put and not fall of a stack of pillows. Is it worth it to get a "scooter"? The nurse said I won't be icing it - is that true?

I'm 48yo, could lose 10lb but not hugely overweight, in good health, no major problems (except my foot!). I'm generally NOT a good patient as I can't sit still and don't like feeling "trapped". (I need to get over that, big time.)

Any advice?


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi TexasChick.

I could have sworn I already answered this....did you see something from me somewhere else?

If not, let's start over. How'd the surgery go?
Jan 14, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		A different experience after surgery on my right foot
by: Casey

Reading through the forum, I feeling nervous, but lucky. I had surgery one week ago on my right foot.

I had a general anesthetic and was in/out of surgery in 45 min.

I was wrapped up (not casted) and told I could walk with boot 5min/hour with ice 30min on/off I went back to work two days later (drove myself w/ boot).

Within 4 days i was back to doing short spurts of housework and dinner prep. I was even able to manuever the stairs to take the dog out for some fetch.

I had first post-op appt where they changed the bandages and gave a 30 min/hour up/down with ice as needed. I

was cleared for upper body workouts. No physical therapy was recommended.

I was yelled at for driving.

I recieved on anti-inflammatory/pain pill which helped a bunch. I get stitches out next week. I got a waterproof cast cover from CVS so I can take a shower and hope to swim for exercise after stitches are removed.


Dec 30, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot Surgery in June, 4 months later severe foot pain is back
by: Mandy

I went years with severe foot pain and tendon problems. Finally last year (2013) I began the process of plantar fasciitis recovery.

I was diagnosed with PF August 2013. By June 2014 I was having surgery on my right foot. I did exactly what was told of me. I kept the cast on for 3 weeks with NO weigh on it. And did a month of Physical Therapy after. I wore the correct shoes and kept the PT exercises going.

Then October 2014 roughly 4 months out of surgery my foot started hurting worse then before surgery.

That's when I noticed a HUGE lump under my incision.

It is terrible pain, I'm walking with a limp again, it shoots fire pain throughout my foot and now starts tingling if I am done elevate it 24/7. And the bottom of my foot around it bruises.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Mandy.

That huge lump is likely (hopefully) scar tissue. Sometimes for a variety of reasons the body lays down way too much.

That might require a new surgery to scrape off all that new growth. It might be necessary as that ball of tissue is problematic when you put weight on it and it presses into your foot in ways it's not supposed to.

Granted, that depends on -where- that lump is. In the arch of the foot, or on/close to the heel.

Either way, your foot isn't working right, and that is likely going to need to be addressed.

What are you doing for self care?
Dec 28, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		no post op care after having plantar fasciitis release and bone spurs removal on both feet
by: sharon

Soaking my feet twice a day In hot Epsom salt water to help with the soreness, walking to rebuild my strength and taking Aleve.

I need suggestions on in home physical therapy that would improve my walking abilities, my strengthening, and getting back on regular grounds to get back to work.

Suggestions please.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Sharon.

I'd start by reading through the thread and following the 'how to reduce inflammation' link, the 'magnesium for tendonitis' link, and the 'inflammation causes b6 deficiency' links.
Dec 28, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		plantar fasciattis and heel spur removable both feet
by: sharon

I'm 5 weeks post op after having plantar fasciattis release and heel spurs removed from both feet and was not given physical therapy papers and was not advised to wear orthotics just told to start wearing a good arch support tennis shoes.

My doctor is good but after reading all the other blogs I'm wondering if my doctor should have recommended physical therapy because my right foot was worst than my right and is still very painful.

Suggestions anyone?


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Sharon.

Damage to the bone hurts, and hurts for a longish amount of time.

Plantar Fasciitis 'release' means they partially or fully sever a big sheet of fascia that helps hold the foot structure together.

5 weeks of pain isn't surprising, especially if you weren't given an effective self care plan. It doesn't sound like you were given ANY plan.

What have you been doing post-surgery?
Dec 20, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Overweight, severe heel pain, bone spurs, 3 hour surgery
by: Murphy

I had been having severe heel pain for a long time. I had chalked it up to being over weight, working on cement floors (retail), and just tired. But my best freind pushed me to have it check into.

I did a lot of research on my own prior toi the dr visit. I went in and I had 2 heel spurs on my left foot and 1 on my right. I was told of my options, whic I already knew. Inserts for my shoes, shots or surgery. I opted out of the first 2. Lets just go to the source and fix it.

My surgery went very smothly. In and out in about 4-5 hours... prep time and recovery. Not bad at all.. Surgery was actually 3 hours. I went home with pain meds every 4 hours and I took them faithfully. I wanted no pain. I will say I haven't experience any really during the whole time (10 weeks so far).

I have never been casted. Which I don't know is good or bad. The incision on the back of my leg has healed pretty well. Not going to be a leg model anytime soon. I never expected to with this surgery. I do have a big problem with the actual heel part. I have a half dollar size wound that is about 1/2 in to 1 inch deep. It has gotten infected. 3 types of bacteria (so I am told). It has caused a lot of extra visits to the dr. Antibiotics-3 rd dose started. And some discomfort.

I am still not supposed to put weight on it. No physical therapy either. I am in a holding pattern T THIS POINT. They want the wound to heak before we go any farther. Not confident with this. I also have still got a lot of swelling. I am told its due to the amount of work that was done to that area. Once again, not real confident.

I am planning on having the same surgery done to my right foot in the late fall. It will most likely NOT be with the Dr. that has done my left foot. Not sure who yet. But it will def not be him.

I feel so far that it has been worth while to do this. Like I said earlier...very minimal pain.

But I did stay in front of the pain also. pro active approach. I was told this would be a 12-16 week recovery process. It will be a full 16 weeks plus, I am thinking. Crossing my fingers that it won't be too much longer than that. Murphy's Law......... My last name is Murphy... Go figure.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Murphy.

You didn't leave your email or check the notification box.

If you find this, give us an update on how it goes/how it went.
Nov 24, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Getting worried, big heel spur taken off and still pain 4 weeks later
by: Karen

I've had the facia release and heel spur surgery 4 weeks ago. I can not put my heel down on the floor at all. It's like my leg is shorter!!

Is this normal?

I'm still non weight bearing for 6 more weeks. Heel spur was very large and I've got a pretty long incision.
Getting worried


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Karen.

If you had a big heel spur removed, then it's entirely unsurprising (plus you weren't given a helpful self care routing to speed recovery).

Basically, they ground off a big chunk of your bone. Bones do NOT like this. Bone damage, bone bruise, etc. It's a major wound, really (well, maybe I should say it's a major trauma, as it's not a particularly big 'wound').

And depending on what they did with the plantar fascia (cut it a little or totally severed it), that -is- a major wound.

So I'm not surprised you're still hurting 4 weeks later, with another 6 weeks of non-weight bearing.

If you're in a boot and not a cast, I'd start ice dipping to help lower pain levels. See the 'How To Reduce Inflammation' link elsewhere in this thread (and read this entire thread).
Nov 12, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		plantar surgery cast and recovery kids helped a lot with chores
by: Anonymous

Hi my name is latonjo I just had the same surgery.

I have a cast on mine the first two days I could not use my crutches the third day I could the second week things have gotten better instead of crutches I am using the walker one for exercise and two so I can build strength in my legs.

Next I have a little mini tricycle to peddle everyday so I can get the fill of things I have been sleeping in my bed since the third day of my surgery now on Nov.18,2014.

Waiting to go to my doctor appointment because now I have good range of motion and I owe it all to the prayers that have been answered from the lord,my husband and our two children the help each other out very well.

The first 4 days they we're lost but I had written out every chore that needed done each day and what day to wash clothes' and who ironed,w ho washed dished had the children we're reward on game days and it is working out ok, I'm up just not up working much as I want I fold clothes.

I just try to stay encouraged. Along the journey.
Oct 04, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you
by: Anonymous

Will definitely check these out, thank you.
Sep 26, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Answering your questions
by: Karen

Thanks for responding. I feel a bit reassured that you aren't surprised that my foot still hurts.

I have pretty significant arthritis in my back, as well as having had two knee replacements by age 52.

I'm doing the ice bath that you suggested and elevating my foot throughout the day, as my work allows.

I'm doing the stretching that my doctor told me to do. I've been on an anti-inflammatory diet in the past and it wasn't helpful. I was on it for 3 years, so I think I gave it a fair shot.

I can't take anti-inflammatory pills long term because I only have one kidney. I draw to relax and keep my mind off of my foot in the evenings.

Are you suggesting that I do something else? I'm open to suggestions.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Karen.

My overall suggestion is my Reversing Achilles Tendonitis ebook as it's a complete plan that is relevant before and after surgery.

Aside from that, I suspect the following would be very important for you:

Magnesium For Tendonitis

Inflammation Causes Vitamin B6 Deficiency
Sep 21, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		update from karen about achilles tendon bone spur removal
by: Karen

Hi, thanks for your suggestion about the ice bath after I posted a month after my surgery. I had a bone spur removed that was under my Achilles tendon.

At just after 2 months, I'm back at work in the Cam boot, but still in pretty significant discomfort walking and even sitting. Other than having the wound, that is irritated by the boot, I'm probably still not at my pre-surgery pain level yet. My work is pretty active.

I'm up and down stairs, parking and walking to several appointments a day, walking around the office, etc..I also drive a lot which hurts. I am still icing and elevating in the evenings.

My doctor told me I would be glad I had the surgery at about 3 months, so perhaps I'm just being impatient.

I had knee replacements that I recovered from more quickly. I feel like doctors always downplay the post surgery pain, and he did warn me that it would be a long recovery, but I'm starting to worry that I don't feel better.

Is my experience typical?

I am doing the exercises he gave me, but the bottom of my foot hurts too much to think about walking without the boot and my ankle really aches. I'm hoping that is referred pain, not another problem.

Thanks for any input.
karen


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Karen.

Is it typical? Unfortunately, probably yes. Doctors do tend to downplay the aftereffects of surgery.

How long to broken bones hurt? Now imagine grinding a section of your bone away...that would take longer to stop hurting...which is what grinding off a bone spur is. It's a big bone injury and bone bruise(basically).

If you had knee replacement surgery, then that is a clue of a few negative factors at play (chronic nutritional insufficiency, chronic inflammation, etc.)

What are you doing for self care aside from icing (how are you icing?) and elevation to help recovery to arrive by month 3?
Sep 20, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Want to get back to running after Plantar Fasciitis Surgery, 3 weeks out
by: David

I had Plantar Fasciitis for about 8 months before I had the PF surgery. It's been almost 3 weeks and I think it's going pretty good.

Week one was non weight bearing, I had no pain at all that first week. The second week the doc had me wear a shoe and begin weight bearing I had some pain while walking but none when I take the weight off my foot.

At the end of week 2 the doctor removed the sutures was happy with the progress. It's now week 3 and walking is getting better.

I still feel the same pain when I get out of bed in the morning that goes away after 10 to 15 steps, is this normal for post PF surgery?

Thanks


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Joshua Comments:

Hi David.

Plantar fasciitis surgery is a significant wound.

So if you're happy with your recovery so far at 3 weeks, I'd go with that 'It's progressing nicely.'

Keep at it. Keep it moving at rest. Walk on it some but don't overdo it.

Ice dip it. Massage coconut oil into/onto the surgery wound area.


See related: Plantar Fasciitis Surgery IN Both Feet Best Decision I Made So Far

See related: Smart Tips For Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
Aug 15, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My experience with plantar fasciitis surgery and several bone spurs removed
by: Karen

I wish I had found this before my surgery!

I just had my 4 week check-up. I had several bone spurs removed from my right heel, under my Achilles tendon.

The first four weeks I was was told not to put any weight on my foot. The recovery was boring, but not too painful.

Now I am in a walking cast and the scooter has gone back to the shop. The first day was terrible, but today, with the help of crutches, I am putting some weight on my foot.

I hope to go back to work, at least part-time, at the 6 week point. I am stretching and strengthening with a band, icing and taking Tylenol.

Because the post surgery pain was minimal, I have taken a couple of pain pills to help keep me moving. I thin I am pretty well on track. I did call someone to come and clean the house. That is beyond me at this point.

Thanks!


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Karen.

I wish you'd have found this info first too!

1. Ice dip!!!!! Learn How To Reduce Inflammation

2. As you're laying there, start moving your ankle and toes around. Doesn't have to be a lot, but get the joint(s) moving and create shortness and length of the attached structures.

As opposed to the first movement the get being under full/partial body weight.

The body LOVES movement, and you've been stuck for a good long while.
Jun 28, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Plantar Fasciotomy two weeks ago
by: Anonymous

I just had a plantar fasciotomy two weeks ago yesterday, but no heel spur. It was an open surgery. No crutches, immediate weight bearing in a post op shoe. Was able to shower and walk with minimal limitations. Stitches came out yesterday and were painful coming out, but I feel even better now.

I walk a bit slow but have had none of the pain I had before, only pain from the incision which is much more bearable than the pain I had before the surgery. Still wearing a post op shoe for the next few days to work toward getting back into a regular shoe.

I am sorry that yours was a bit rough and hope that ultimately you get to a pain free (at least mostly) state.


May 28, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Partial Plantar Fasciectomy a tarsal tunnel release and bone spur removed on my big toe.
by: Kim

I have had heel pain for seven years and have tried everything I could learn that might help: rolling a tennis ball or frozen water bottle with my heel, then anti-inflammatories, stretching, wearing the walking boot, steroids, finally cortisone shots and finally surgery on Dec.18, 2013.

The pain in my heel got progressively worse leading to extreme sensitivity where I couldn't rest it on the bed or anything else for that matter. I work a job that keeps me on my feet a lot and for long hours. Finally, surgery was suggested.

After surgery, I was bandaged and non-weight bearing for 5 weeks. During that time I had no heel pain the first time in years. Once I was given the ok to begin putting weight back on it again, my good results began dwindling. I've been back since then and had a pressure cast put on for a week and didn't walk on it.

During that time the pain receded but again, once I started walking again the pain in my heel has come back with a vengeance. I also have outside ankle pain, like a bad sprain along with swelling. Today, my heel, ankle, arch, top of my foot all hurt. My foot is so swollen and it feels like a sock is waded under my toes and a 3/4" pipe is under my arch. As before, I can't put my heel down when I stand, sit or walk so I'm fairly certain that's not good on my other joints.

I'm so tired of hurting and just want to be normal again. I'm 49 and still have a lot I want to do.
Kim


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Kim.

I'm sorry to hear all that. No fun, no fun at all.

1. The bone spur was on your big toe? Hmm. Usually, they're around the heel. What I'm about to say applies in general to heel or toe spurs: So they cut that off. And that's going to be a big source of pain...bones don't like being damaged.

Big source of inflammation/pain.


2. Not surprised the boot and the injections didn't work. They don't. Not surprised surgery was next...that's just how it goes.


3. So you're 5 weeks out of surgerin and in a lot of pain. That's not surprising. You essentially had a lot of trauma applied to your foot. Stabbed a bunch of times.

The body does not like that.

My point is, 5 weeks of pain isn't surprising. But it isn't a good omen, is it?


So thus I ask:

What are you doing for self care to minimize the pain, minimize the inflammation, speed healing, etc?



See related: Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy 2 Months Ago Still Pain In Heel

See related: I Still Have Foot Pain 2 Years After My Plantar Fasciotomy
May 26, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Joshua Replies to Tammy - Severe swelling while in recovery from plantar fasciitis surgery
by: The Tendonitis Expert

-CONTINUED FROM LAST SECTION-

That sounds like a traumatic experience, through and through. Post surgery falls, weight on the foot, torn stiches (bad news), exposed ligaments, a more extensive second surgery, etc.

One can expect a long painful recovery. At best you can speed it up with the right methods.

For instance, after the wound seals, learn How To Reduce Inflammation


Is the swelling normal? Yes, it sounds like it. You have had some major injury and trauma to the foot there, plus all the chronic previous pain and inflammation mechanism at play.

Plus surgery doesn't fix any of the causes of your previous ongoing pain.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms show up for very specific reasons. And then someone takes a sharp object to your body and roots around multiple times....the body DOES NOT like that.
May 26, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Severe swelling while in recovery from plantar fasciitis surgery
by: Tammy

This is an overview of my story. I am trying to be as brief as possible while getting to the main points. I would like to know if swelling is normal after my cast was removed.

Start of surgery: 11/02/12
Cast removed : 1/10/13
Present status: still in revovery.

Foot problem: approxmately eight years. Several corotoze shots. Up until the surgery, i felt lke was walking on rocks with sharp points. I had severe calcium deposit build-up; that caused a large buldge from my heel. I have screws in my heels.



I had plantar fasciitis surgery on November 2nd, 2012; removal or repair of the heel spur, and reattachment and extension of the ligament, and calcium deposit removal. The ligament was grafted or wrapped (I hope that I am using the correct terminology) with a medically approved material (I forgot the name). At some point during my recovery, the stitches broke and the ligament was exposed.

I was not aware of the injury until I returned to my physician during my two week visit. Let me add, I fell twice; so I could have injured myself during the fall.

I was later informed that I would need grafting to cover the wound; however the grafting procedure was dismissed because of the bulge that would continue to be visibly extending from the Achilles tendon.

Basically, the tendon was wrapped with a material that was too thick, so it broke through the stitches.

Okay, with this being the case; I was scheduled for surgery to redo the wrapping on the tendon. The second surgery was on November 23rd, 2012. My doctor informed me that there was some additional damage to the already repaired tendon. The entire surgery was two hours, longer than the first.

Unlike the first surgery, I was put in a heavy cement type cast. The first surgery I was in a fiberglass half cast. I remained hospitalized for five days-under observation.

During my weekly follow-up visits, my cast was changed along with the normal medical procedure. I was in the cast for approximately seven weeks. The cast is finally removed, no swelling. The foot looks normal, the wound is closed. I was informed that I can put some weight bearing on the affected foot. Of course being anxious to walk, I use the affected foot a little and with the assistance of the crutches and the boot.

My problem now-- is that I am experiencing severe swelling. I am trying to keep the foot elevated. I am also having pain when I land on the foot, I would think that this is normal. Other than that, I have no pain.

I would like to know if this swelling is normal, even though there was none when the cast came off?

How long does it last? I do not want to go through another surgery.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Tammy.

You didn't leave an email or check the notifications box, so I hope you find this.


-CONTINUED IN NEXT SECTION-
May 26, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ouch Why Doesn't The Corticosteroid shot work?
by: Anonymous

My doc gave me a steroid injection last month which gave me pain relief for 12 days; had another shot three days ago and so far nothing but more pain and swelling. d oc says takes 2-3 days to start working but my foot hurts worse than ever.

Why doesn't the shot work? I am icing but there is much pain upon walking . Will a third shot work or not? He only gives three -I don't know what to do:(


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Joshua Comments:

Because corticosteroid injections don't help or fix tendonitis.

See: Corticosteroid Injections
Apr 29, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		2 weeks post op after plantar fasciitis release and bone spur removal
by: Tobin

I am 2 weeks post op having had the release and bone spur removed from my heel.

This post scared me pre op but I will say I have had ALMOST no pain! I also got a scooter and it is worth every penny. I was back to work in 1 week. I cannot drive yet but the stitches are out and I have a lot of flexibility.

I do have some numbness but I can hardly wait to be able to run. Just trying to take it slow!

Good luck!


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Tobin.

Nothing about this site is meant to scare anyone, but sometimes when people see the downsides that are possible it's frightening.

I consider fear to be a great motivator.

That's great you're experience/recovery has been pretty traumaless. It just all depends on what exactly the surgeon does in there, your overall state of health, your specific pain dynamic, pain tolerance levels, nutritional status, etc.

Scooters and such are a GREAT idea post surgery to keep people off their feet (lots of people get hurt when stumbling on crutches and suddenly accidentally bring all their weight down on their post-surgery foot...bad news).

Please keep us updated on your recovery.
Mar 18, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Plantar Fascia release and heel spur removal 2 weeks agoi
by: Karen

I am 43, I had Plantar Fascia release and heel spur removal just 2 weeks ago. I go in today & hopefully get my stitches out.

I HIGHLY recommend anyone getting this surgery to invest in renting a knee scooter, I paid $80 for a month and it has increased my ability to recover & help myself by 100%.

My husband is a physical therapist and has been surprised at how much I am able to do since the surgery. Just the ease of getting to & from the bathroom without the hassle of crutches has been worth it.

However, don't do what I did, WEAR you boot ALWAYS when moving,I kept it off because of swelling & it was very uncomfortable, then on a late night from the couch to bathroom I lost my balance 1 1/2 week post surgery and put weight down on the foot, HOLY COW electric shock, the pain increased the next 4 days and I was so afraid I screwed something up.

Today it is feeling better & will let dr know what I did. Anyway, 1 week total bed rest & pain meds for me, by beginning of week 2 off pain meds, still some throbbing pain but swelling is all but gone. I have been able to drive myself a few times(right foot in boot, no problem)and then crutch into the store and use the cruiser cart they have and it has worked well.

I have used my knee scooter all over my house, by beginning of week two my husband had a hard time finding me because I was all over the place and doing everything I could to stay active and for myself.(luckily no stairs in house) I think if I didn't have the knee scooter I would have been so much more miserable, using crutches is exhausting,

I am so glad I rented the knee scooter. I have not tried walking yet, I know each time I put my foot down without the boot on it "lights up" I guess that it the nerve pain I am afraid of walking on it & my guess is today the dr will say start using crutches and walking with boot lightly.

Will see, but long story short recovery has been pretty quick for me as far as getting around and being able to do things on my own for the most part.


----


Joshua Comments:

1. Yep, scooters etc a good idea. Nobody is in crutches shape, and the easier one's mobility is, the better one's life/recovery is.

2. Boot on, yes. Sudden force/impact to severed tissue can be BAD news. Doesn't have to be, but it's better NOT to tear recently separated tissue.
Oct 31, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Gave in and had achilles lengthening surgery and heel spur removal
by: Anonymous

Like most people I have tried everything to relieve the chronic debilitating pain of plantar fasciitis, bone spur and tight Achilles' tendon. I have done:
accupunture,
3 painful cortisone injunctions,
CAM boot,
custom orthotics (and any I could buy in the stores)
6 months of physical therapy,
2 chryo surgeries (first one helped a bit so tried a second to knock out the remaining pain... Didn't work and seemed to reverse the first surgery).
Scooter for non weight trial (3weeks)
X-rays, MRI
3 different doctors (2 podiatrists, 1 orthopedic surgeon)
Shoes- a fortune to try and find anything I could walk in
Night splints or CAM boot every night for a year.

The orthopedic surgeon suggested casting it for 6 months and allow the tendons to settle down. Other doctors said it was time for surgery.

Surgery was my last option because I wanted to give it my best effort to avoid surgery. Finally, I felt I had no other option as the pain was so bad, I only went to work and could stand for only 10 minutes. Then after sitting it was excruciating to get up and walk again.

My surgery was 2 1/2 weeks ago. I had a partial fascia release (cutting 2 tendons of the three on the fascia) this prevents possible arch collapse. Bone spur removed (I insisted on this) because I had a noticeable exterior lump on my heal that i couldn't put any pressure on.

Then the Achilles lengthened (mine was so thight I would have snapped the remaining fascia tendon that was connected to my heal (this is done in the upper part of the calf, DONT do the lower calf). 1-3/4 hour surgery.

Recovery:
3 weeks in bed with no weight on my foot (scooter), pain meds, antibiotic to prevent infection. You will need tons of help during this time to mend properly. Scooter to get to bathroom. 2 weeks in the splint from surgery, 1 week in CAM boot.

I am at the end of three weeks and will have my stitches removed this week. I can move my toes with little pain (couldn't do that before), numbness on outside of foot and part of the leg (normal).

I do feel encouraged though. Just to have that painful bone spur out is a blessing. I haven't stepped on my foot yet....so we will see how that goes. I will probably be in the boot for 6-8 weeks and on the scooter for 6 weeks after surgery.

The pain now is mainly nerve (electric) sensations. It can be very intense though. But that should go in time to, maybe 6 months.

My suggestions on how to find a good doctor is:
Ask people who they recommend
Ask physical therapy staff
Do background research online
Ask pharmisists (people that have contact with doctors)
Pray

Good luck to us all
Sep 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Do cep socks help with plantar fasciitis or bone spurs?
by: pg

Do cep socks help with plantarfascitis or spurs?


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Joshua Comments:

Hello PG.

No, they don't.

These sports/compression 'socks' seem to increase bloodflow and reduce inflammation, and for the purposes of your question let's say they do. But that's not going to reverse the structural components or the Pain Causing Dyanamic enough to fix, reverse, or even 'help' a Plantar Fasciitis or Bone Spur scenario.
Aug 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bone Spur Removal
by: Anonymous

I'm having my bone spur removed on my right foot. I'm 43 and playing Ultimate Frisbee 3 times a week and i only feel my heel pain when playing and especially after.

When I jog, not too bad. The cutting back and forth is killing me. Eventually, i will probably need to fix my spur in my left foot too, but not till next year. It's not as bad.

I'm not overweight, it's just the spur on that right foot that is the problem. I also do the Insanity workouts with no real pain. I have always had spur problems, but last year i hurt my heel, pushing off before a run. It has never been the same since.

I wonder if the spur was already there and caused the injury or vice versa. Going in for surgery in October. I will give you heads up.

Any advice you have, would be appreciated. thanks


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi AnonyFrisbee.

It may seem self serving, but my overall advice is in my Reversing Achilles Tendonitis ebook. That will definitely help your surgery recovery.

Combined with:

How To Reduce Inflammation (good for pre surgery and post surgery)

Magnesium For Tendonitis (good for pre and post surgery)

And read the Bone Spur page too.

(I didn't add links in here as there are already a few on this thread and I don't want too many links to the same pages.)
Aug 11, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Tried cortisone injections too
by: Anonymous

Oh, I forgot - I tried those horribly painful cortisone injections in both feet, too. Didn't help AT ALL. Now I just limp around and if I walk a lot, I can't walk the next day much at all. Its so frustrating. I tried getting a 2nd opinion but all that podiatrist would say is he never touches a 2nd surgery if another surgeon did it first. Nice, huh? Wouldn't even give an opinion on the neuroma.
Aug 08, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		help, surgery made me much worse
by: Anonymous

I tried everything before undergoing the first surgery - stretching, physical therapy, ultrasound, ice, etc. NOTHING helped for more than a day. The pain kept getting worse. I had the first surgery just cutting the ligaments and it made me a lot worse. Now I have to have the heel spur removed, the neuroma removed AND my other foot done - how do you find a good surgeon? My first one obviously isn't.


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Joshua Comments:

Well, you tried what you tried. You didn't try everything.

I'm certainly not going to argue that your surgeon was good, as I certainly don't know, but it's safe to say that if surgery can't fix a problem, then performing the surgery is a bad idea.

I've never understood how 'cutting the ligaments' was a good idea for anything but destroying the structural integrity of a foot. Thus the guy gets my vote for being a bad surgeon, but technically he might have done it by the book.

That's my long answer to 'I don't know how to find a good surgeon'.
Aug 07, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot surgery last resort
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone, love the comments.
I have dealt with a heel spur & plantar fasciitis in my right foot for the last 2 years. Have tried physio, podiatry, orthotics, heel gel inserts, cam boot, stretching therapy, cortisone injections.

I had an MRI done & went to my orthopeadic (foot/ankle) surgeon. He suggests that I now have surgery (endoscopic) & he won't do anything to the spur. I am reluctant to do it but may have to anyway due to the impact on my life & constant pain. As a last resort to delay surgery I have now started having acupuncture treatment.

Can anyone advise if they have had success with acupuncture? Or any other treatment I could try?

Thanks


----


Joshua Comments:

In my experience, acupuncture is either helpful or it's not (sounds obvious, but I mean that you'll either get benefit, or you won't).

It did great things for my knees once upon a time, but didn't do a thing for my back. It just all depends on who's doing it and what you have going on.

Will it fix a bone spur? No. Will it fix plantar fasciitis? I've never heard of it doing such. Will it fix a magnesium or vitamin d or Vitamin B insufficiency? No.


So...if the surgeon isn't going to remove the heel spur, then it makes sense that the heel spur isn't the problem.

So the question for the doctor is, how is surgery going to help? What exactly is it going to fix?

We are taught in this society to think of surgery as the last fix. But that's assuming it is an actual fix, that it will fix the problem all the other things didn't. But there's a reason those other things the doctor prescribed failed to fix the problem. So the doctor with a 0 for (insert number of failed treatment options) record is now recommending surgery.

Great. How is it going to help?

Here are some questions for your doctor: Quiz Your Doc
Aug 04, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Help, can barely walk 10 months after surgery
by: Susan

I had a plantar fascia release in 10/12. The surgeon refused to remove the spur at my request because we own horses, which made no sense at all to me. The surgery did not work and not only made the pain a lot worse, but the surgeon cut the nerve to the bottom of my foot and I couldn't feel it for months.

It finally grew back, but now there is a painful lump in the middle of the bottom of my foot. Since this is the 2nd failed surgery by this surgeon, I won't go back.

He said it was a neuro-something and it hurts like crazy - if I rub my foot to make it better, it hurts so much worse, all night long. I didn't sleep at all last night.

Can anything be done about it? I need the same surgery on my other foot, too and am really afraid now.


-----


Joshua Comments:

Well, if a neuroma (nerve bundle, nerve scar) developed, there's not much to do about that but cut it out and hope for the best.

So that certainly may be a factor, if that's what that lump/bump is.

The downside to plantar fasciitis surgery is that it doesn't fix the factors causing the pain in the first place, and, as you've experienced, there are some risks.

What have you done for self care? What have you tried to help the side now 'needing' surgery?
Aug 02, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I had both feet done and was doing Pilates with the Boots on 2 days later
by: Anonymous

I had surgery on both feet 2 weeks ago and have been walking around like a champ. Except for a little soreness in my feet, I have been doing great. I was working out, doing Pilates, with my boots, 2 days after surgery.

I think this post is a little ridiculous as I was only in bed for 2 days after having both feet done and was back on my bike after one week. I walked without crutches 4 days after surgery. I still have numbness in my heels and am hoping that goes away before too long. But, I was, in NO WAY, confined to my bed for more than 2 days.


----


Joshua Comments:

You were doing pilates with the Boots on?

Ha! That's awesome. I wish I had pics!


Having said that, you think this original post/thread is ridiculous because YOUR particular singular experience was that you were only down for 2 days after foot surgery?

To judge people in pain that are forced to NOT be able to be on their feet for weeks or longer because of the damage done to their feet from invasive surgery (and pre-existing ecology thst lead to the surgery still in place as well), is, well, it's a lot of things.

But I'll just call it ridiculous for now.

Don't get me wrong, I'm glad your recovery so far has been speedy, thsat's great. But every body want to have that experience, and only a few do.

Whether you SHOULD have been so active so soon is a different query altogether, but it just all depends on what you had going on and what exactly the surgeons did in there.
Jun 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Help me to have a better life than this
by: Virginia

I have a huge heel spur on my right heel and I am currenly suffering as I have no income and am going out of my mind. The cortizone shots don't work the shoe insets what a joke. My heel spur is massive and I have become so depressed help......my doctor says no to surgery and I wanna just tell him where he can go. I live n Canada...Saskatoon Sk. Help!


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Virginia.

I'm sorry to hear all that.

1. Why does your doctor say no to surgery?

2. Where is the bone spur, exactly (details please)

3. How long has the bone spur been developing?

4. When did the bone spur start hurting, in relation to question #3 above.
May 07, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain after surgery
by: Dawn

I had my surgery in Dec 12..
I still have some pain, and weakness and swelling at the incision site. They say its scar tissue and to try to massage it, as for the weakness, I think it will take time.
Apr 29, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain control after bone spur removal
by: Renee

So I have been having pain symptoms for nearly two years with an increase in severity last October and another increase in severity about 2 months ago. I went to the podiatrist and of course low and behold I have a HUGE bone spur which I have lovingly nicknamed Captain Hook! The podiatrist gave me a cortisone injection which lasted all of 4 days...yippie.

Now I am back to square one plus one and after exercises, shoe inserts and this cortisone shot am considering parting ways with my buddy Mr. Hook.

Thing I am having a hard time understanding is I have been to three doctors now and after telling them what is going on each one tells me how understand the severe pain I am in but not a one has given me anything to control the pain while we try these "conservative" measures. Is this normal???

I ask because even taking a step on this thing is excruciating at times let alone rubbing and stretching it. Worried how they control the pain after the surgery.


----


Joshua Comments:

Unhelpful care from multiple doctors? Yes, unfortunately, that's entirel common.

The question is, is it the bone spur causing the pain? Lots of people have bone spurs with no pain.

Or is it the factors that are causing the bone spur that is causing the pain.

Will removing the bone spur make the pain go away?

Also, NO SURGERY is 'like a session of physio'. A sharp instrument is going to cut, possibly sever a tendon (I HIGHLY suggest that you don't let a surgeon sever a tendon. That's on the criminal side of silly.)

I too am concerned how they're going to control the pain post surgery. They're going to go in an saw off a chunk of new bone from your bone, and depending on where the bone spur is and what's attached to it, are going to have to sever the attachments and reattach. That's a serious invasive surgery.

Also because I don't see a link to it on this page: Bone Spur
Apr 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Plantar Fasciitis, surgeon wants to cut tendons, says it's jut like a PT session
by: denise

Thank you for the reply Joshua....The sugeon has said she is going to cut at top of back leg below knee,to release tendons as i have been walking on my ball of my foot as the pain in heel has been unbearable when pain killers are no longer taking pain away,so my calf is really tight. She said this operation is like a session of physio!

Also i am not having a boot/plaster as she wants me to walk on it straight away. She has said this will take the pain away from my heel! (i so hope so) I will be off work for at least 6 weeks she said. I stand up all day in my job.
Apr 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		PAIN in heel months after surgery
by: Anonymous

Well I had surgery in Dec. As posted but am having really bad pain in my heel in April. Went to the Doctor and they say it's just scar tissue that I have pulled, and to wear the boot again. So upsetting. I just want the pain to end.
Apr 16, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Plantar Fasciitis surgery at the top of the calves
by: denise

I am due in to have my Plantar fasciitis operation at the end of this month after would you believe 13 years of on and off pain,in the last 14 months constant pain and stinging in my heel. I have read your comments which have been helpful.

Has anyone had their operation at the top back of their right leg as my consultant has said this is what he is doing so to release my calf tendons so then it release's my foot tendons and this will hopefully stop the pain.

How long will i be off work?


----


Joshua Comments:

So they're going to cut structures at the top of the lower leg?

Why don't you/they just do effective massage etc to lengthen the structures?

How is that surgery going to magically fix the CAUSE of the problem?

As far as recovery, that just all depends on what they do, how invasive the surgery is, your nutritional status, how well your body does with trauma, the kind of post-surgery self care you do, etc.

So unfortunately, I have no predictions for time of recovery. Perhaps others will chip in with their experiences.
Apr 10, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not that bad
by: Thief

I'm in my 5th week post-op and I started back to work this week. I am a waitress. The surgery really isn't all that bad. The recovery isn't all that bad either. I had 2 weeks of no weight bearing but could use my crutches and knee scooter to get around. I elevated my leg anytime I wasn't up using the bathroom or sponge bathing. Then they put my boot on and I could slowly start walking on it. I believe that my recovery went really well and maybe even fast than normal. I also think it depends on your surgeon as well. I had an amazing surgeon and I followed all of his instructions to the letter and have had no problems. For the ones that said they will be not walking or up for 2 months-wont happen. It will be sooner than that. You play a big part in your recovery. Doing everything your doctors tell you and keeping a good attitude will be everything to you and your recovery.


----


Joshua Comments:

Keep us updated on how it goes.
Mar 22, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		removal of 2 heel spurs this coming April
by: Lesa

I Am Having Heel Spur Surgery In Mid April. So Far I Am Completely Lost About This Surgery. Until I Go Back To My Foot Doc Before Surgery. Was Wondering If You Get Sedated During This Surgery? And Also I Have 2 Heel Spurs One On The right side of my heel & 1 on the left.

So Is Heel Spur Surgery Called Plantar Fasciitis?

I See that alot of comments show some people have alot of pain & swelling after the surgery. I Guess the more weight you have on you makes it worse on the healing process.

What is the Length of time to be completely healed?

Any comments is welcome i need to know everything. all your comments has helped alot.

Thanks, Lesa


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Lesa.

Here are some questions to ask your Doctor: Quiz Your Doc

What your surgery is called depends on who you're talking to, and what all they're going to do while you're under the knife. Get really clear about what they plan on doing.

There are a variety of sedation options, different doctors/hospitals/clinics have different protocols so it just all depends. It also depends on how intrusive the surgeon plans on being.

Healing times depend on your specific scenario, the specifics of the surgery, your post surgery self care, your overall health, your nutritional status, etc.




Mar 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		7 weeks post op
by: Anonymous

I'm 7 weeks post op. Just got my hard cast off last week and am now in a walking boot but very limited weight bearing. I had two spurs removed and also tendon lengthening. I had almost no pain until this last week or so, but it seems that's fairly normal. I start PT next week and have a feeling that's when the real pain and work will start. I've dealt with this for around 10 years before finally having the surgery. Hope this is the answer to my prayers!


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Joshua Comments:

I hope so too!
Mar 17, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		surgery on both feet and broken wrist from falling with the crutches
by: PM

Ok had the surgery on nov 21st on the eight fiit which is healing well I broke my wrist in the process on my crutches it took about 8wks before I really began to walk but on march 13th did the left foot I knew they both they needed done but wanted to get this over with to get my life back will keep you all posted on the recovery.


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Joshua Comments:

Keep us posted!

And no more falls off the crutches!
Mar 16, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		time for a vacation?
by: Anonymous

I am having my heel spur removed March 19th. My surgeon said it would be 2 months before I could put full weight on it. It sounds accurate according to what I have been reading.


Feb 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Wasn't too bad?
by: Scott

I had my surgery on Jan 31st, (Heel spur & planter cut) its now Feb 26th and I'm in my 4th week of healing. First 3 weeks was alot and I mean alot of laying around.

This 4th week I decided to go to the mall with my family and what a big mistake. Middle of my foot started hurting real bad, called the Dr. and he said I just over did it. Went back to resting the foot again and feel much better. Something they won't tell you but make sure you do it is to use ice.

My Dr. was dead against ice but it makes a big difference after the 3rd week. While reading this page I was getting really scared I may not heal, but so far everything is going well.

I wish I had done it earlier, as I was having this pain for about a year prior to the surgery. I start back to work this coming Friday and wonder if I 'll be ok or not. I did go out and buy a pair of Rockports, hoping they'll make my feet feel better at work.

Got a follow up appointment on March 5th, and If needed the Dr. said he'll pull me out again. He doesn't see it being a problem but only time will tell. I'll let you know how the next few weeks go once I get back to work.


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Joshua Comments:

Keep us updated.

And ice ice ice!
Feb 23, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My surgery created a bump bigger than the original
by: Dawn

Had surgery on Dec 4, 2012. Outpatient. No pain. NO weight bearing for 3 weeks. I had to have my Achilles Tendon repaired. 50% weight after that with the boot on all time. Finally about a month after surgery, I started PT. I think it was 6 weeks when I could do PT out of the boot. I was off work 9 weeks.

I have a large lump in the spot the spur (Haglunds Deformity) was removed. I think this bump is bigger than the lump they removed. Doc says its scar tissue..ice and massage the area. Not sure I would ever do this again.
Dec 21, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		What am I doing for self care
by: Anonymous

I am resting. I do have a knee scooter which is helping. I am using ice every few hours and keeping it up. I have a removable air case, which I have on all the time only off to ice, and change dressing.

I even sleep with the air case (walkable boot) At night I try to keep my leg more straight but I must admit that takes some work it really pulls. Today I have more energy, so I guess everyday will get better.


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Joshua Comments:

Yes, healing from a surgery definitely takes something, and idealy one gets a little better day by day.

Icing is great. I recommend ice dipping as seen on the How To Reduce Inflammation page.

Definitely learn about Magnesium For Tendonitis
Dec 18, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dec 11, 2012 (surgery)
by: Anonymous

Well I had lots of stuff at one time and the pain is OMG. I had a heel spur removed, plantars facia released and Calf lengthing on the right leg. My calf is feeling like I ran a marathon, and the bottom of my foot were the Stiches are hurt so bad and think wow, I have to wait 2 more wks before they are taken out. UGH. Makes me wonder if I really will be able to drive on week 4? any thoughts ?

Thanks

BETH


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Beth.

Sure, I have lots of thoughts.

The first one is, what are you doing for self care?
Dec 13, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Follow up to foot surgeron appt
by: Anonymous

Well had my foot srgeon appt this morning, thought it would go the way I wanted it to go, but nope it didn't. All he said is to have physical therapy for 3 months and it will get better, does physical therapy take away the heel spur? I would say NO it does not!! So all that's going to do is take the pain away temporarily.

I got home & made an appt for a 2nd opinion on 12/31/12. I sure hope it goes better than today's appt.


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Joshua Comments:

Physical therapy will not remove a heel spur.

Hopefully it will bring your body to a place where there is not pain. (One can have a heel spur and no pain, so it's not necessarily the heel spur causing your pain.)

Let us know how the 2nd opinion goes.
Dec 12, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot Surgeon Tomorrow
by: Robin

Hi everyone, love the comments from everyone. I have dealt with a heel spur in my left foot for the last 10 years at least, tried walking boots, stretching therapy, everything except shots which I refuse to get because most of the time that is just a temp relief.

I had an MRI done last week & went to my orthopeadic Dr. this morning, he suggested I meet with a foot/ankle surgeron & my appt is tomorrow morning. He said he might give me some options before doing surgery but I don't want any options, I just want it done. I hope he goes with my request.

I think I hve dealt with this long enough and I am hoping surgery takes care of it.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Robin.

Please let us know what happens/how it goes.
Dec 09, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		operation scheduled Jan 16
by: Dinanand

I love this site and appreciate all comments. I am wondering if some had different types of operations? I will be having endoscopic surgery (release) in Jan '13 on my right foot.

Can any one estimate how long until I could drive (right foot is going to be operated on). I live pretty far from work.

I had planter fasciitis in my left foot for two years - cortisone and physical therapy finally addressed it. Two years later my right foot just isn't getting better (phys therapy 2 sets of orthotics shots and so on).

thanks!
Dec 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstar 		My Foot doc doing surgery in his office
by: mawmaw

Is it normal for the ACTUAL Podiatrist to do the surgery in his office? Or should I be contacting a surgeon?


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Joshua Comments:

If the podiatrist is a surgeon that's probably fine, as long as his office has an actual surgical suite.

I'd definitely investigate that.
Dec 06, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		plantar fascitis surgery after 2 years of pain
by: PM

I had surgery after two yrs of pain, it took me 4 doctors before I found someone who would listen. I had done corticosteroid injection shots, orthotics a few pair, physical therapy, steroids by mouth, stretching, icing,heating,....etc you name it I did it.

Finally the surgery november of this year I had a cast on just got it removed along with the stitches, feeling some numbness in the tires periodically but now are pulling the yours, back, to me I'm in a walking boot but still have to use crutches. I figure I have to be doing better now than before surgery.


Lets just say I had no life couldn't exercise,walk, was mean and moody due to chronic pain.

The incision isn't the best and still have some swelling but its only been two wks. Will keep you posted, and I to was on the verge if losing my job I couldn't stand which is my job, and started in severe pain, the left ft have it to but nothing like the rt. The lft could have been taken most of the wght and may clear up as the rt clears up. I well keep you posted.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi PM.

Definitely please do keep us updated on your recovery.
Nov 16, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Release of Plantar Fascia
by: Jen

I had surgery in October 2008 for release of the plantar fascia. Experience was good - off my foot for 2-3 days then I was in a walking cast for 3 weeks and a boot for 1 more. (The cast was much more comfortable than the boot) I wore a compression sock for several months after that and could tell a difference if I didn't have it on.

My foot was tender for awhile but so much better than before surgery. It took about 8-12 months until I was completely "pain" free - I wouldn't describe it as pain really, but more like uncomfortable first thing in the morning.

4 years later and I have had no issues. I still wear only good, supportive shoes 95% of the time and always have my custom orthodics in my tennis shoes. If I wear non-arch supporting shoes for too long I can feel it, but I am usually okay to wear dress shoes to church or a wedding and not have pain afterwards.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Jen.

Thanks for sharing.

Your recovery is on the 'best' end of the spectrum. I'm glad it's worked out so well!
Nov 01, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Plantar Facia Release endoscopically
by: Steve

Folks, I had the endoscopic surgical procedure three weeks ago and it was the best thing I have done for myself in a long time. Foot pain is gone and i'm getting close to being back to normal.

I'm still wearing my boot most of the day, but when I get home from work it comes off and I'm wearing my Croc flip flops the rest of the evening.

I am having some discomfort relating to foot swelling, but I believe that is related to the compression sock, ace bandage and CAM boot - not the surgical procedure itself.


----


Joshua Comments:

Keep us updated!
Aug 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		calcification
by: Sandra

After reading all the comments I am terrified. Have to vet MRI tomorrow to find out extent of calcification in my Achilles Tendon. Surgery had been mentioned and that will be my last resort. I teach fitness classes at our community college. Surgery and recovery would mean no income. I am open to suggestions.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Sandra.

Pain and limitation is, indeed, scary....until you learn how to reverse the process.

Start here:

Achilles Tendonitis

Bone Spur
Jul 01, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Walking On A Bed Of Nails after foot surgery
by: Deborah

This is just my story 5 years ago I was diagnosed with heel spurs and plantar fasciitis and after two years of trying everything to help reduce the pain. Doctors felt surgery would be best but did not mention a word that it could also make matter worse and more pain.

If perhaps the fear of god about how much more pain I could endure after surgery would of been told to me I would of put the kibash on that idea really fast.

It has been five years now and my feet have never gotten any better I am in constant pain all the time.

I would never tell anyone to have this surgery.



----



Joshua Comments:

Hi Deborah.

5 years of pain that's never gotten any better. I'm SO sorry to hear that. Yikes.

Thanks for sharing.

Bone Spur is a growth of bone. Assuming that you had the surgery that includes sawing off the bone spur....the body does not like that injury.

Bone injuries are painful and slow to heal. And removal of a bone spur doesn't fix the problem that caused the bone spur to heal in the first place.

I of course am always curious what people have done self care-wise after surgery to recover/rehab.

What helps, what doesn't?
Jun 22, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not bad so far
by: Chris

I had my surgery for plantar fascial release 3 weeks and 2 days ago.

My experience wasn't nearly as traumatic as the one discussed above. My doctor had me wear a walking shoe instead of a boot.

He is a firm believer in getting up on the foot the day after surgery. The sooner you are up and on in, the less scar tissue will form to cause future discomfort. I did take a pill for pain for the first two days, not because I was having pain, but just to keep ahead of it.

I sat in a recliner for most of the first two days with my foot up and iced regularly. After that, I was able to be up and around as tolerated. I was never on bed rest. After one week, I went in to have my dressing changed and was told I could take quick showers, but not soak the incision yet.

Three weeks after surgery, the stitches were removed and I was able to bathe in a tub. The incision looks rough, with a small gap still there. I am told that is normal and healing will continue for quite some time. The incision area is still tender with internal swelling underneath.

I am comfortable wearing flip-flops or other shoes with no arch support on the inside of the foot. Any other shoes rub on the incision and are too painful to wear. This morning I was actually able to go walk my dog and I've been running errands all week for a few hours at at time. I do not have any of the plantar fasciitis pain that I had before the surgery; just discomfort around the incision and from the swelling, which will probably go away in the next month or so.

At this point, I can say that I am glad I had the surgery.


----


Joshua Comments:

That's great Chris.

Keep us updated!
May 20, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstar 		heel spur surgery
by: Teresa

I had my surgery on 11-30-11 I didn't do very well with crutches so I got a knee scotter did better after my surgery I did not go back to work until April 2012 now I am in more pain with my foot since before my surgery I use my boot off and on but this pain is getting worse where I can hardly make it to my chair at work. Any suggestions.


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Joshua Comments:

Hi Teresa.

Lots of suggestions, yes.

1. Read around the site. Lots of information relevant to you.

2. See: Process of Inflammation

3. See: How To Reduce Inflammation

4. See the Magnesium For Tendonitis link in this thread.
Apr 27, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		little electrical shocks
by: diana d

I have little electrical shocks in my hands, wrists, arms sometimes legs, with all over fatigue. When tired, my jaw gets stiff. I just had foot surgery 4 and a half months go, and I had to go up and down the stairs on my backside(casted 8 weeks)

Could thast have brought on the above because of stress on the hands and wrists?


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Diana.

The answer to your question, ultimately, is 'YES'.

See: Magnesium for Tendonitis

Tight muscles deplete your body of magnesium. Stress (like surgery and recovery etc) deplete your body of magnesium. You were already short of it in the first place.

What you describe is (among other less likely options) a side effect of magnesium insufficiency/deficiency.
Jul 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To PJ (July 6 Post)
by: Kathy

I am having exact same problem. My incision has not healed so I just went for another MRI to see what is going on. My surgery was March 27. Still pain after being on it all day and swelling beyond belief. I am on the verge of losing my job if I keep on missing work.

How can you stay positive when you are not getting any better and are in pain? I am sick of pills, etc. I ICE several times a day. People are starting to think its in my head.

However, you should see my foot. PJ if you want to correspond via email contact me via email at ocfun at mchsi dot com. I could really use the advice/friendship of someone who is having the same problems.
Jul 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ankle spur removal
by: Lisa

I had my bone spur removed 5 weeks ago,after having so much pain for over 3 years.

It as been the best thing i ever had done started walking today without the boot.I am a little confused as to why some of you seem to stay in bed for so long,as long as i used the crutches i was up after 2 days.

I could not weight bare on it for 10 days.

I was so positive about having the surgery which as really helped,as most of you seem to live in the USA and i live in ENGLAND it looks like your after care and advice is so different.One thing i will say do the ice it helps more than the tablets to take the swelling down.

And please stay POSITIVE it will get better.



----


Joshua Comments:

Hey Lisa, thanks for sharing.

Positive attitude absolutely helps!

You asked why people stay in bed....

Everybody's pain tolerance is different. Everybody's attitude is different. Everybody's health is different, speed of healing is different, nutritional status is different, etc.

Any damaging invasion of the body that doesn't let you put weight on your foot for 10+ days is a significant trauma to the body.

And as you mention, the aftercare advice is usually lacking, if they get any at all other than 'rest and anti-inflammatories'.

Which is always a bummer to me.
Jul 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		HELP!
by: PJ

May 20th I had a heel spur removed, Tarsal Tunnel Release & Fasciotomy (and I know my spelling is way off here)
I am back to work now 6 weeks later but I'm in SO MUCH PAIN! I work 2 jobs so I'm gone 14 hrs a day. I have my foot "up" on a stool in my day job - nothing avail at night. Both are computer jobs. I was crying like a baby when I got home last night.

I've tried anti-inflammatory meds and still have my pain meds avail to me - but when does the shooting/stabbing pain where the nerve was cut go away? When I touch my foot (right) it feels like electric shocks are going thru it and just sitting here typing it hurts!! :(


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi PJ.

OUCH! That doesn't sound fun at all.

1. Was the nerve cut? That's bad news if so.....

2. You have a huge Process of Inflammation at play. That explains at least some of your pain and symptoms.

3. Learn How To Reduce Inflammation and instead of putting your foot up at work, ice dip it regularly throughout your shift, if they'll let you.


In your situation, I'd get either the 'small gun', my Reversing Achilles Tendonitis ebook or the 'big gun', The ARPwave System.

It just all depends on how motivated you are....

The Ice Dipping will help, without a doubt. You want to do as many dips a day as possible.

And, there's more to it, and other variables. When I say 'it depends on how motivated' you are, I really mean how fast to you want to heal and get out of pain.

It matters of course what exactly you have going on as compared to your various options i.e. ice dipping, Reversing Achilles Tendonitis ebook, The Arpwave System.

And you have had major trauma to your feet from the surgery. OF COURSE you're in major pain!

And unfortunately, the surgeries didn't actually fix the CAUSE of your pains that resulted in surgery.


More questions, more answers
Jun 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Still in pain after Gastroc lengthening
by: Tina

Hi There....I had a heel spur surgically removed from the back of my heel 4 months ago along with gastesosis (spelt wrong) lengthening, and I am still in a lot of pain with a large bump where my surgery was, still tender to the touch and a lot of pain when walking, was getting better but now worse. Bump seems to get very red and swollen the more I walk on it with swelling some times going up to my ankle?? Help? any suggestions, had to stop physical therapy because I couldn't afford, but still did exercises I was shown.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Tina.

One of the huge problems with any surgery is the Process of Inflammation caused by the injury the surgery causes.

My immediate suggestion is for you to learn How To Reduce Inflammation.

Get all the Pain Enhancing Chemical that Inflammation releases out of there and pain immediately decreases. Do know that the body will continue to pump out pain enhancing chemical, so it's a tug of war.

Let me know how that goes.
Apr 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Hi Kathy...sorry :(
by: April

Hi Kathy, I'm sorry you are having such problems! Ask your doctor for a cam walker boot and crutches. That way, at least maybe you can go to work (depending on what you do). When you are home, keep your foot elevated, and keep ice at your knee and ankle.

It really should get better soon! I wasn't able to wear a shoe until a couple of weeks after the stitches were taken out.

My heel and incision are still numb. Apparently it's permanent. I wish I had better news about that. It's bothering me less and less as time goes on.


Apr 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I would say yes, David
by: April

Hi David, my doctor told me to keep the boot on at night...and I was stubborn and didn't do it. Now, less than a year later, I believe my fascia tendon healed itself...not a good thing.

I know it's more comfortable without the boot, but in the long run, you'll be glad you did it. Even now, my physical therapist told me to keep using my night splint. I'm sorry to say that sometimes it's an ongoing thing..
Apr 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Recovery Time
by: Kathy

Week 4 after surgery: I am having so much trouble trying to put weight on my right foot again. Had heel spur removed and plantar cut.

I have been putting most of my weight on my toes and outer foot as habit and now my outer ankle swells and constantly aches to the point I just cry. It feels like i can feel my heel move under the bone. And my whole heel is completely numb along with incision which is about 3 inches. Start PT tomorrow.

When can I expect some relief. I am starting to be really depressed along with being financially ruined. I was told I would only miss one week of work. Any suggestions?

And I was only given a surgical shoe and told I can start using my own shoes now. There is absolutely no way that is possible.


----


Joshua Comments:

Sounds like crutches are what you need, so you can get around etc.

If you can't put weight on your foot, you can't put weight on your foot.

The heel spur removal generally isn't that big a deal, other than the pain from the bone bruise that causes. But if the surgeon cut the sheet of plantar fascia, and your foot structure NEEDED that sheet of connective tissue to support said flexible structure, then it is entirely possible that your heel bone -is- moving more than it ever has before.

It's kind of like cutting a couple bridge supports....

So, when can you expect some pain relief? I'm sorry but I can't say.

It just all depends on what the surgeon did in there, the current state of your foot structure, how much inflammation you have going on, what self care you're doing to help your foot heal, your nutritional health, your protein intake, etc.

What -are- you doing for rehab self care?
Feb 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		do i have to wear boot during nightime sleep
by: david

I had the heel spur surgery and had a question please...i had a splint for about a week then given a boot to wear..I have no pain except my lower back from being in bed..I do wonder if I have to wear this cumbersome boot in bed at night...seems the foot does better without it during sleep..i keep the foot bandaged with a bandaged outside protection..thanks


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi David.

Before I answer that:

1. Where exactly was the heel spur?

2. What were your symptoms/problems, overall? Details please.

3. Did the doc say why s/he wanted you to wear the boot 24/7?
Jan 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Rikki
by: April

Hi Rikki - all I can suggest is that you try to wear the night splint or boot as much as possible (icing is great, too!) because it is possible for the fibers in your foot to re-attach.

I didn't know this, and I wish I had worn my boot more. Maybe "fibers" isn't the right word, but you understand. You need to keep your foot/ankle at a 90 degree angle as much as possible.
Jan 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		agree with April
by: Anonymous

Hi April, you are so right Doctor do not give all the information what would you expect after the surgery.

Actually I was told I will be able to go back to work 2 weeks after surgery. I had surgery 2 weeks ago. Last night I was in so much in pain I thought I might have to go to ER.

If I put my foot down for a min it feels like burning from swell and pain.

I recommend to think twice before you have surgery.
Dec 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Walking boot after plantar fasciitis surgery
by: Rikki

I just had plantar fasciitis surgery 11 days ago.

Got my Cam walker 4 days ago but I'm not sure how long I have to wear the boot each day? I try to wear it as much as possible but should I try to wear it through the pain, all the time, at night?

Right now I wear it a couple hours and have to take it off and ice then I try to put it back on.


----


Joshua Comments:

Hi Rikki.

You're going to have to ask your surgeon about that.

Having said that, taking off the boot and icing repeatedly throughout the day is a BRILLIANT strategy.

The more you can ice dip to get the Inflammation Process dialed down, the better.
Nov 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Lola - What should I do about my plantar fasciitis pain?
by: April

Hi there Lola,
I'm not an expert - all I know is my experience.

As far as sitting at school, after about 2 weeks, I was able to sit up for a half day without my foot swelling up. Keeping your foot elevated is really important for about a month. Plus, walking from class to class would be tough, even with the cam walker (boot). You'll be on crutches for a week or two. If you must have surgery, you might consider having it in the summer.

Your doctor should be able to tell you if your plantar fasciitis is going to get better...or if it's bad enough for surgery. I just had the surgery - and I'm 35. I'm not sure I would have the surgery at the age of 14..

It's been 3 months, and I'm still experiencing just a few problems like numbness in my heel and big toe. However, some of my problems are due to WAITING to have the surgery I needed. I spent 2 years walking funny before surgery, so my calf and ankle muscles are under-developed.

Have you asked your doctor about physical therapy, and a night splint? Even now, those are the things that are making the biggest difference in my recovery.


Nov 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		what should i do about my plantar fasciitis pain?
by: lola

i am 14 and have had plantar pain for about 4 years. I have tried everything. should i get the surgery? should i be able to sit at school? would really appreciate your opinion.


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Joshua Comments:

Hello Lola.

I certainly don't know and can't say whether you should get surgery or not.

I promise you though, you haven't tried everything.

What you you mean, 'can I sit down at school'?
Sep 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Whoops!
by: April

Yea! This morning I got up and I had this HUGE gap in the incision. It scared me, but on further investigation, it was just dead skin, which was easily pulled back to reveal a very light scar and completely healed skin!



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Joshua Comments:

New skin is GOOD!!!
Sep 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Incision and specifics
by: April

Hi Joshua, the incision is about 1.5 inches long, on the inside of my right heel. They released some of the facia tendon, and removed the spur that it had caused.

My heel is still in quite a lot of pain, (the pain is not in the same place as pre-surgery - it's directly on the bottom of my heel now).

However, I have noticed that I have greater range of motion in my toes. Before surgery, I had a hard time straightening them, and my foot always felt "curled under". It's much looser now.

I hope that's a good thing!


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Joshua Comments:

Don't get me wrong April, sometimes surgery works out and/or helps.

If you're slowly progressing, GREAT! And, help that progression along!

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