Plantar Fasciitis Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Plantar Fasciitis Surgery?
Foot and ankle surgeons usually perform this procedure. These are orthopedic surgeons, who treat bones and joints, or podiatrists, who are doctors trained to care for feet. A primary care doctor often diagnoses the problem first, then sends you to one of these specialists if other treatments do not help.
What it is
Plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the heel, caused by swelling of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. Surgery is called plantar fascia release. The surgeon cuts part of this band so it is under less tension, easing the pulling and pain in the heel.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Most people get better without surgery. Doctors usually suggest it only after six to twelve months of treatments like rest, stretching, shoe inserts, and physical therapy have failed and pain still limits daily life. Results differ from person to person.
How to prepare
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions. Common steps include:
- Stop blood thinners such as aspirin if the surgeon tells you to, and only with a doctor's approval.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home.
- Ask whether you should avoid food and drink beforehand.
- Plan time off work and get a supportive shoe or walking boot ready.
What happens during it
Plantar fascia release can be done as open surgery or endoscopic surgery. You usually get a numbing shot or light sedation. The surgeon cuts part of the plantar fascia near the heel to reduce tension. The procedure often takes under an hour, and many people go home the same day.
Recovery
Recovery varies. Many people wear a special shoe or boot and limit standing for the first few weeks. Stitches usually come out in about two weeks. Gentle stretching and physical therapy often begin soon after. Some people return to normal shoes within a month, while others need several months.
Risks and side effects
All surgery carries risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia. Some people continue to have heel pain afterward. Cutting too much tissue can change the shape of the arch. Your surgeon can explain which risks apply most to you.
Who performs it
Orthopedic surgeons who focus on the foot and ankle perform this procedure, as do podiatrists with surgical training. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can often manage plantar fasciitis with stretching plans, shoe advice, and physical therapy referrals, and will refer you to a surgeon if these treatments fail.
Common questions
Is plantar fasciitis surgery painful?
You should not feel pain during the procedure because the area is numbed. Soreness after surgery is common and usually improves over weeks. Pain tolerance differs from person to person.
How long does recovery take?
Many people need several weeks before walking comfortably. Some need a few months for full recovery. Your surgeon will give you a timeline based on your case.
Will surgery cure my heel pain?
Surgery relieves pain for many people, but not everyone. Some patients still have discomfort afterward, so results differ from person to person.
Can I avoid surgery?
Most people improve with stretching, rest, shoe inserts, and physical therapy. Doctors usually consider surgery only after many months of these treatments have not worked.
Sources
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons - ACFAS - Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment and Partial Plantar Fasciotomy Surgery in Patients with
- MedlinePlus - Plantar fasciitis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
