Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE)
PFE is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure performed by our experienced vascular specialists. Using advanced techniques, we carefully block the abnormal blood vessels responsible for chronic heel pain—helping the area heal and giving you long-lasting relief.
Contact AVC to see if you are a candidate for Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE).
Overview of Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE)
PFE is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure performed by our experienced vascular specialists. Using advanced techniques, we carefully block the abnormal blood vessels responsible for chronic heel pain—helping the area heal and giving you long-lasting relief.
It’s done with a tiny catheter inserted through your ankle or leg. Most patients are surprised by how quick and easy it is—many are back on their feet the same day!
Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE): Relief from Chronic Heel Pain Without Surgery
Offered at Advanced Vascular Centers
Are you tired of waking up every morning with sharp heel pain? Have you tried stretching, injections, or orthotics—with no lasting relief?
At Advanced Vascular Centers, we offer a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis called Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE). This revolutionary procedure targets the root cause of pain—without surgery, steroids, or long downtime.
What Is Chronic Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot (the plantar fascia) becomes irritated and damaged—often from overuse, flat feet, or improper footwear.
For many people, this pain goes away with simple treatments like rest, stretching, or arch supports. But for others, especially when the pain lasts more than 6 months, it becomes chronic and harder to treat.
Why Does Chronic Plantar Fasciitis Hurt So Much?
In long-term cases, the pain isn’t just from inflammation—it’s actually due to tiny abnormal blood vessels and nerves that form around the injured fascia. These new vessels release pain signals that keep the area irritated.
Traditional treatments like steroid injections may provide short-term relief—but they don’t address these tiny vessels.
That’s where Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE) comes in.
Is PFE Right for Me?
You may be a great candidate for PFE if:
- You’ve had heel pain for 6 months or longer
- You’ve tried other treatments like physical therapy, orthotics, injections, or shockwave therapy without relief
- You want to avoid surgery or steroid injections
- You’re looking for a fast, effective, outpatient solution
A consultation at Advanced Vascular Centers will help us confirm the diagnosis using ultrasound or MRI and determine if PFE is right for you.
Benefits of Plantar Fasciitis Embolization
- Minimally Invasive – No surgical incisions, no stitches
- Quick Recovery – Back on your feet within days
- Outpatient Procedure – No hospital stay required
- Long-Term Relief – Treats the source of the pain
- No Steroids or Implants – Ideal for patients who want to avoid injections
The PFE Procedure
How the Procedure Works
1. Local anesthesia only — You’re awake and comfortable during the procedure
2. Tiny catheter inserted — Through your ankle or groin, guided by live imaging
3. Abnormal vessels targeted — We inject a safe embolic agent to block the pain-causing vessels
4. No stitches needed — Small bandage only
5. Go home the same day — Most patients resume light activity within 1–2 days
Total procedure time is usually under 1 hour.
Risks and Complications
PFE has been proven to be very safe, especially when performed by skilled interventional radiologists like ours.
Possible (but rare) side effects may include:
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Temporary foot soreness or bruising
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Mild swelling or warmth
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Rare nerve irritation (resolves on its own)
There is no risk of major tissue damage or long-term complications in reported studies.
FAQS
What is Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE)?
PFE is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis. Using advanced imaging, a specialist inserts a small catheter into a blood vessel and injects tiny particles to block the abnormal blood vessels causing inflammation and pain in the heel.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. It’s done under local anesthesia, and you’ll be awake but comfortable. You might feel some mild soreness afterward, but it typically resolves within a few days.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes, and you’ll be able to go home the same day. It’s performed in our outpatient vascular suite, so no hospital stay is needed.
How soon will I feel relief after the procedure?
Many patients report improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, with continued healing and pain relief over the following months. Everyone’s healing timeline is slightly different, but studies show long-lasting results in most cases.
Is PFE covered by insurance?
Coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. At Advanced Vascular Centers, we’ll work with your insurance company to determine your benefits and help you understand your options before scheduling treatment.
What are the risks or side effects?
PFE is considered very safe. Most patients have no complications. Rare side effects may include minor bruising, swelling, or temporary foot soreness. There’s no risk of significant tissue damage when performed by an experienced specialist.
What if I’ve already had injections or physical therapy?
That’s exactly who PFE is designed for. If you’ve tried stretching, orthotics, cortisone shots, or physical therapy without long-term relief, PFE could be the right next step for you.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for PFE?
If you’ve had heel pain for 6 months or more that hasn’t improved with other treatments, you may be a good candidate. Our team will review your history and perform imaging to confirm whether PFE is appropriate for your condition.