What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes irritated and inflamed. This can cause sharp pain, especially when you take your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
Many people get better with treatments like:
- Stretching exercises
- Physical therapy
- Supportive shoes or shoe inserts
- Ice
- Anti-inflammatory medicine
- Steroid injections
However, some people continue to have pain even after trying these treatments.
What Is Transarterial Embolization (TAE)?
Transarterial Embolization (TAE) is a newer, minimally invasive treatment for people with long-lasting plantar fasciitis.
During TAE, a doctor uses a tiny tube called a catheter. The catheter is placed into an artery through a small opening, usually in the groin. Using live X-ray images, the doctor guides the catheter to the small blood vessels that are causing inflammation in the heel.
Tiny particles are then released to block these abnormal blood vessels. This helps reduce inflammation and pain while allowing the healthy tissues to heal.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Most patients:
- Receive medicine to help them relax.
- Go home the same day.
- Have only a small bandage where the catheter was inserted.
Because no large cuts are made, recovery is usually much faster than surgery.
Who May Benefit?
TAE may be a good option for people who:
- Have had heel pain for 6 months or longer.
- Have tried other treatments without enough relief.
- Want to avoid surgery if possible.
Your doctor will review your medical history and imaging studies to decide if TAE is right for you.
What Are the Benefits?
Possible benefits include:
- Less heel pain
- Better ability to walk and exercise
- No large incision
- Same-day procedure
- Faster recovery than surgery
Many patients begin to notice improvement over several weeks, although healing time is different for everyone.
Looking Ahead
TAE is an exciting treatment that may help people whose plantar fasciitis has not improved with other treatments. While it is not the right choice for everyone, it offers a less invasive option that may reduce pain and improve daily life without surgery.
If heel pain is keeping you from doing the things you enjoy, call our office today to schedule a consultation to learn whether Transarterial Embolization may be an option for you.
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