|
|
New Treatment for
Stubborn Plantar Fasciitis
Studies show 95% success rate for plantar fasciitis that has not
responded to standard treatments
For stubborn plantar fasciitis that does not respond to standard therapy
there is a promising, fast, minimally invasive and inexpensive new
treatment available to you in our Seattle clinic. Called Percutaneous
Ultrasound Guided Approach to Plantar Fasciitis" or "dry needling", it
was developed by researchers at the Department of Experimental Medicine
at the University of Genoa, Italy. In a preliminary study that included
44 patients, researchers achieved a 95 percent success rate in
completely resolving plantar fasciitis symptoms, relief that has so far
lasted for more than ten months since the procedure.
The Procedure
The procedure has a terrible name – "dry needling" – but we make sure that it is painless for you. Here is how it works:
- We numb your foot with a local anesthetic. The procedure is not
started until you are completely numb. We don’t want you to experience
any pain at all.
- Using ultrasound imaging, we use an empty hypodermic needle to
repeatedly puncture the plantar fascia. The ultrasound images allow us
to precisely place the needle. Then, once again using the ultrasound
imaging to ensure precise placement, we place a steroid at the site
where you have been having pain.
How Does it Work to Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
The dry needling induces minor bleeding in the tissues. In addition,
some researchers feel that it helps to break up scar tissue at the heel.
The minor bleeding recruits blood cells to heal this tissue – which
normally has rather poor circulation. Injecting the steroid, especially
with the precise placement available with the use of ultrasound
guidance, reduces inflammation and helps eliminate the risk of fascia
rupture.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The entire procedure lasts about 15 minutes.
What Happens After the Procedure?
You might experience some tenderness in the foot. This is usually
controlled with Tylenol or Advil. Following the procedure, we ask that
you wear a removable walking cast-boot for 5 – 7 days. This simply gives
the foot a chance to rest and start the healing process. After you
finish with the cast, you should wear stable shoes with orthotics or
arch supports for the next two weeks.
What are the Benefits of the Procedure?
- Early studies show 95% success with lasting relief for most
patients.
- Current studies show relief lasting at 10 months
- Relief within 2 – 3 weeks according to studies
- One-time treatment
- Performed in our office – no need for hospital
- Much less risk than surgery
- Much less expensive than shockwave therapy or surgery
What are the Risks of the Procedure?
- Some patients have pain for several days following procedure
- Still a relatively new procedure, so long-term results past 12
months unknown
- Could lead to weakening of the plantar fascia and possible
rupture.
- However, long term inflammation from plantar fasciitis can cause
the same problem.
- Small risk of post-injection infection
- Allergic reaction from the anesthesia
Don’t live with heel pain or arch
pain. Call today to make an appointment in our convenient Seattle
office.
All pages on this website © 2005-2010
Douglas Hale, DPM & Lawrence Huppin, DPM
Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, Seattle
The material provided on this web site is for informative purposes only.
If you need specific medical advice, please contact the office for an appointment.
|
|
|
