One-Year Update on Greg's Surgery (Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy)
by Greg Bailey
Sept. 2004
Well, it has been almost a year since I wrote last. I suppose I should let everyone know how I am doing to this point.
My heel pain is gone. I consider myself "healed" of heel pain. (Pun intended)
I am now in a prevention mode. I have early onset diabetes, so I have been examining my feet regularly for cuts and other injuries that might not heal up, due to this diabetes issue.
I purchased a nice pair of sandals that have a thick and cushioning sole. I keep them by my bed. As soon as my feet clear the bed, they go into the sandals. No exceptions! I do not walk barefoot except in the shower. It wouldn't be good to slip, hit one's head and then tell the emergency room doctor you were protecting your feet! I also stretch my feet prior to getting out of bed. I have completed this process so much that I find myself doing it without having to consciously "order" it. I even do it sitting at the computer or when I have my big, old feet up on the coffee table.
I have not walked as exercise since my surgery. This however, is about to change. I, like many Americans, am overweight. I have been this way since I was an adolescent. The only times I have been "normal" weight was during basic training in the Army and again, when I went on the Atkins Diet way back in the 1970's. It was considered a "bad diet" back then and I guess now, depending on whose counsel you listen to. l was also running like a mad man, just like a lot of people in that era. The running kept the weight off, but I successfully damaged both knees and my feet. Now, healed of heel pain, I plan to engage myself in a weight loss program. My exercise will be walking and when I feel my back can stand it, bike riding.
I will be checking in with my podiatrists before I start this walking program. I will also buy another pair of very good walking shoes to enhance my chances of success. Moderation is the key with a history of PF. Let your heart overwhelm your brain and soon one could windup with heel pain again. If you start a walking program after PF surgery, be sure that you also check with your podiatrist before engaging in such activity. If you damage your heel and you come down with PF again, your chances of a successful weight loss program could fail. Actually, when one examines other forms of exercise, there are things you could do without "working" your feet so much. Swimming, and rowing come to mind. Test yourself on the rowing. Pressure on the sole of the foot might be uncomfortable.
So, be kind to yourself, take care of your feet and folks, cut yourselves a little slack. Remember, you didn't develop PF overnight and you will not cure the issues overnight. Plan ahead and think about the potential harm you might inflict upon your feet, being too eager to get out and exercising after PF surgery and not wearing your shoes or sandals.
