What Is the Plantar Fascia?

The plantar fascia is a thick, broad fibrous band that supports the arch of the foot. It runs from the calcaneus (heel bone) to the toes and plays an important role in weight-bearing and walking. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition causing chronic heel pain, representing irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia. With progression, tears in the fascia may develop.

Do You Have These Symptoms?

  • Heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning
  • Pain around the arch of the foot
  • Pain that is worse after periods of rest

When these symptoms persist despite conservative management — including physiotherapy, orthotics, stretching, and cortisone injections — keyhole surgical release is considered.

Keyhole Plantar Fascia Release

Dr Smith performs minimally invasive keyhole plantar fascia release through two 3–4mm incisions. This technique allows direct visualisation of the thickened plantar fascia using a specialised camera, while minimising soft tissue trauma and scarring.

On the day of the procedure, you will arrive at hospital 1–2 hours prior. The anaesthetist will discuss a nerve block to provide post-operative comfort. The procedure involves:

  • Two small incisions (3–4mm) along the border of the sole of the foot — one on the inside (medial) and one on the outside (lateral)
  • A tiny camera passed through one portal allows direct visualisation of the thickened fascia
  • Through the other portal, a specialised instrument releases the tight, thickened plantar fascia
  • The camera confirms a successful release, with separation of fibres seen in real time
The minimally invasive approach minimises scarring and soft tissue trauma, with most patients weight-bearing and returning to normal activity significantly faster than with traditional open surgery.

Recovery

Patients are able to weight-bear immediately following the procedure. Most return to normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks. A physiotherapy program commences shortly after to restore strength and function and prevent recurrence.