Plantar Fasciitis Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve been dealing with stubborn heel pain that just won’t go away, you might be wondering what is plantar fasciitis surgery and whether it could finally bring relief. While most people recover with conservative treatments, some cases require surgical intervention to release tension in the plantar fascia and reduce chronic inflammation. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from the types of surgeries available to what to expect after plantar fasciitis surgery, recovery timelines, and costs.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis Surgery?

Plantar fasciitis surgery is a medical procedure performed when long-term heel pain doesn’t improve with non-surgical treatments. The goal of the surgery is simple: reduce tension in the plantar fascia, the thick ligament that runs under your foot and supports your arch.

By partially cutting or releasing the fascia, inflammation decreases, pressure eases, and chronic pain often improves. Surgery is usually considered only after 6–12 months of failed conservative care, including rest, orthotics, stretching, and medication.

Common reasons doctors recommend surgery:

• Persistent heel pain that limits daily activities
  

• Pain that worsens despite physical therapy
  

• Heel pain lasting over a year
  

• Fascia thickening or degeneration seen on imaging
  

Types of Plantar Fasciitis Surgeries

Open Plantar Fascia Release

This is the traditional method where a small incision is made near the heel.
How it works:
The surgeon exposes the fascia and cuts a small portion to relieve tension.

Pros:

• Direct visualization of tissues
  

• Ideal for severe or complicated cases
  

Cons:

• Longer healing time
  

• Higher chance of scar tenderness
  

Endoscopic Plantar Fascia Release

A minimally invasive option using a tiny camera and small incision.

How it works:
A probe and blade are guided through a small portal to release the fascia from inside.

Pros:

• Faster recovery
  

• Minimal scarring
  

• Less post-op pain
  

Cons:

• Requires specialized surgical skill
  

• Not ideal for all patients
  

Gastrocnemius Recession (Calf Muscle Lengthening)

Sometimes tight calf muscles contribute to plantar fasciitis. In these cases, surgeons lengthen the calf muscle to reduce stress on the heel.

Pros:

• Addresses muscle tightness
  

• May help patients who didn’t respond to fascia releases
  

Cons:

• Longer rehabilitation
  

• Risk of calf weakness early on
  

What to Expect Before Plantar Fasciitis Surgery

Pre-Surgery Evaluation

Your doctor will perform:

• Physical exam
  

• Heel and arch mobility tests
  

• Review of symptoms and prior treatments
  

Imaging Tests

You may undergo:

• X-ray to rule out fractures and heel spurs
  

• Ultrasound to assess fascia thickness
  

• MRI for complex or chronic cases
  

How to Prepare

• Arrange mobility aids (walker, crutches, or knee scooter)
  

• Set up your recovery area at home with pillows and easy-access essentials
  

• Wear loose, supportive shoes for post-surgery comfort
  

Fasting & Anesthesia

Most procedures require:

• Fasting for 6–12 hours
  

• Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the technique
  

What Happens During Plantar Fasciitis Surgery?

Step-by-Step Overview

1. Anesthesia or sedation is administered.
   

2. The foot is cleaned and prepped.
   

3. A small incision (or portal for endoscopic surgery) is made.
   

4. The surgeon releases 30–50% of the plantar fascia.
   

5. The incision is closed with stitches or left tiny enough to not require them (endoscopic).
   

6. The foot is wrapped and supported.
   

Procedure Duration

Most plantar fasciitis surgeries take 20–45 minutes.

Sedation vs General Anesthesia

• Sedation + local anesthesia is common for endoscopic release.
  

• General anesthesia may be used for open release or calf muscle recession.
  

Stitches or Small Incisions?

• Open surgery: stitches
  

• Endoscopic: tiny incisions that may not require sutures
  

What to Expect After Plantar Fasciitis Surgery

After surgery, you can expect:

• Mild pain, swelling, or tightness in the heel
  

• The foot to be wrapped and partially immobilized
  

• Limited weight-bearing for the first few days
  

• Gradual transition to walking with supportive shoes
  

Your surgeon will give specific instructions, including:

• When to change dressings
  

• When you can shower normally
  

• When to start gentle stretching
  

This stage is important because it sets the foundation for your plantar fasciitis surgery recovery time.

Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Recovery Time

While every patient heals differently, here’s the general timeline many follow:

Average Recovery Timeline

Week 1–2

• Pain and swelling are normal
  

• Keep the foot elevated
  

• Limited walking using crutches or support
  

Week 3–6

• Transition to normal walking
  

• Light stretching and strengthening
  

• Avoid running, jumping, or high-impact activity
  

Month 2–3

• Returning to normal daily activities

• Most people are cleared for moderate exercise
  

Helpful Recovery Timeline Table

How Much Does Plantar Fasciitis Surgery Cost?

Costs vary widely depending on your location, surgeon, and whether the procedure is open or endoscopic. On average, in many regions:

• $4,000–$12,000 for plantar fascia release
  

• Higher costs for calf muscle recession
  

• Additional fees for anesthesia, imaging, and post-op care
  

Insurance may cover the procedure if conservative treatments have failed.

Non-Surgical Alternatives to Try Before Considering Surgery

Most patients don’t need surgery, and trying conservative treatments for at least 6–12 months is recommended.

Helpful Options:

• Orthotics: arch support inserts to relieve pressure
  

• Stretching routines: calf and plantar fascia stretches
  

• Rest & activity modification: avoid excess standing
  

• Ice & NSAIDs: reduce swelling and pain
  

• Night splints: keep the fascia stretched during sleep
  

• Compression socks: supportive options from reputable brands like Doc Miller Sports can improve circulation
  

• Shockwave therapy: stimulates tissue healing
  

• Corticosteroid or PRP injections: helpful for stubborn inflammation
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is plantar fasciitis surgery painful?

You may experience mild to moderate pain for a few days, but it’s manageable with medication. Endoscopic surgery typically has less post-op pain.

2. Can plantar fasciitis come back after surgery?

It can, but it’s less common when stretching, proper footwear, and activity modifications are followed.

3. How soon can I wear regular shoes again?

Many patients wear supportive shoes by 3–6 weeks, depending on healing.