Plantar Fasciitis Embolization
Minimally Invasive Heel Pain Treatment in Oxford, Henderson & Dunn
Chronic heel pain can impact every step you take, limiting your mobility and quality of life. At Champion Health System, we offer a modern, effective solution: Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE). This non-surgical, image-guided procedure is helping patients throughout North Carolina walk comfortably again, without the risks and recovery time of traditional surgery.
Why Patients Choose PFE at Champion Health System
Plantar Fasciitis Embolization offers proven relief with fewer risks and faster recovery. Performed by our experienced interventional radiologists, this outpatient procedure delivers targeted pain relief where conservative treatments have failed.
- Return to daily activities in just days
- No stitches, no general anesthesia
- Effective for patients with chronic, treatment-resistant heel pain
- Performed in a safe, outpatient setting with expert imaging guidance
Conditions This Procedure Treats
Plantar Fasciitis Embolization is used to treat chronic plantar fasciitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot. When this tissue becomes overstressed or injured, it can cause persistent heel pain that doesn’t respond to rest, orthotics, or injections.
What You Need to Know
What is Plantar Fasciitis Embolization?
PFE is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces heel pain by decreasing abnormal blood flow to inflamed tissue in the heel. Using a catheter inserted through a small puncture, our specialists deliver microscopic beads to block these vessels—relieving inflammation and allowing the plantar fascia to heal naturally.
Process
PFE is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces heel pain by decreasing abnormal blood flow to inflamed tissue in the heel. Using a catheter inserted through a small puncture, our specialists deliver microscopic beads to block these vessels—relieving inflammation and allowing the plantar fascia to heal naturally.
Clinical Research
Plantar Fasciitis Embolization is supported by clinical studies showing significant pain reduction in patients with chronic, treatment-resistant plantar fasciitis. PFE has become an increasingly recommended alternative to surgery among vascular and interventional specialists nationwide.
Are You a Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for PFE if:
- You’ve had heel pain for 6 months or longer
- Conservative options like stretching, orthotics, or injections have not worked
- You want to avoid surgery and recover faster
- Our providers will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging, to determine if this treatment is right for you.
Benefits of Treatment
Minimally Invasive – No scalpel, no stitches
Faster Recovery – Return to daily activities quickly
Reduced Risk – Fewer complications than surgery
High Success Rates – Effective where other treatments have failed
Outpatient Procedure – Performed in a calm, controlled clinic setting
| Feature |
PFE
(Plantar Fasciitis Embolization) |
Surgery (Fasciotomy) |
Orthotics / Injections | Physical Therapy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Invasive | Non-invasive | Non-invasive |
| Anesthesia | Local with sedation | General | None | None |
| Recovery Time | A few days | Several weeks | Varies | Varies |
| Success Rate | High (esp. in chronic cases) | Moderate | Often temporary | Varies |
| Long-Term Relief | Yes | Yes (with risk) | Often limited | Possible |
Why Champion Health System?
Champion Health System is a trusted provider of outpatient, minimally invasive procedures in North Carolina. Our interventional radiology team brings deep experience, advanced imaging technology, and a compassionate, patient-first approach to every treatment we offer.
Outpatient Expertise
Decades of experience delivering minimally invasive care in a calm, clinic setting.
Advanced Imaging
We use precise, real-time imaging to ensure accurate and safe procedures.
Personalized Treatment
We tailor every care plan to the individual—never one-size-fits-all.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don’t let heel pain control your life. Champion Health System offers expert outpatient care and advanced treatment options that help you move forward with confidence. Schedule a consultation with our vascular and musculoskeletal team today to find out if Plantar Fasciitis Embolization is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is plantar fasciitis embolization?
It’s a non-surgical procedure that blocks abnormal blood flow to inflamed heel tissue, relieving pain and promoting healing.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort, similar to a blood draw. The procedure is done under local anesthesia with optional light sedation.
How soon will I feel relief?
Many patients begin to notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, with continued progress over the following months.
What are the risks?
Risks are minimal but may include bruising, mild soreness, or rarely, complications at the access site. Serious risks are very uncommon.
Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage can vary. Our administrative team will verify your benefits and discuss all costs with you upfront.