Plantar Fasciitis Embolization
Step Forward: Non-Surgical Relief for Plantar Fasciitis at Champion Health System 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, a common cause of heel pain, occurs when the plantar fascia – a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of your foot – becomes inflamed. While many conventional treatments focus on managing symptoms, Plantar Fasciitis Embolization addresses the root cause of chronic pain by targeting the abnormal blood vessels contributing to the inflammation.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE)
PFE is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure performed by our skilled interventional radiologists. Here’s how it works:
We do ultrasound guided procedures and also use advanced imaging guidance. A tiny catheter is inserted into an artery, usually in the wrist or groin.
The catheter is guided to the heel area where abnormal blood vessels, which are often the source of chronic inflammation and pain, are identified.
Microscopic particles are then injected through the catheter to block these abnormal vessels. This reduces blood flow to the inflamed plantar fascia, thereby decreasing inflammation and promoting healing.
Are You a Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for PFE if:
You’ve had heel pain for 6 months or longer
Conservative treatments such as rest, ice, stretching, physical therapy, orthotics, or steroid injections have not worked
You want to avoid surgery and recover faster
At Champion Health System, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care. We will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if PFE is the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.
Why Choose PFE
- Non-Surgical: Avoids incisions, stitches, and the associated surgical risks.
- Minimally Invasive: Performed through a small puncture, leading to less pain and discomfort.
- Rapid Recovery: Patients typically experience a much faster recovery compared to traditional surgery and return to work the same day.
- Effective Pain Relief: By addressing the underlying inflammation, PFE offers a targeted approach to long-term pain reduction.
- Local Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia.
| 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 chronic heel pain hold you back any longer. Contact Champion Health System today to learn more about Plantar Fasciitis Embolization and take the first step towards walking comfortably again.
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.