Plantar fasciitis (or heel pain) is commonly traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. Often (but not always) it is associated with a heel spur.
Heel Spur
Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Also called "heel spur syndrome," the condition can usually be successfully treated with conservative measures such as use of anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs, stretching exercises, orthodontic devices, and physical therapy.Sometimes cortisone injections are recommended.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency (www.neurotherm.com) is a new, minimally invasive treatment which is now being used to treat severe or chronic heel pain. This procedure is performed with local anesthesia in the office and delivers a radiofrequency current to the nerve in the foot, thereby relieving the pain. A band-aid is applied after the procedure and the patient leaves the office, full weight bearing, in sneakers. The patient returns to work the following day. The Neurotherm (www.neurotherm.com) radiofrequency unit is shown below.
Sedation is available with a Board Certified Anesthesiologist to provide a 100% painless experience for those patients who are "apprehensive about needles".