What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, caused by irritation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Pain is often felt under the heel and is typically worst with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
While many people improve with rest, physiotherapy, insoles, or injections, some develop long-standing pain that can significantly affect walking, work, exercise, and quality of life. In chronic cases, abnormal tiny blood vessels develop in the painful area, keeping inflammation active and contributing to ongoing pain.
What is plantar fascia embolisation (PFE)?
Plantar fascia embolisation (PFE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis. It works by targeting the abnormal blood vessels that drive inflammation and pain in the heel.
The procedure is performed as a day case under local anaesthetic with light sedation. A specialist doctor inserts a very thin catheter through a small blood vessel, usually from the groin, and guides it to the blood supply of the painful area in the heel. Tiny particles are then used to reduce the abnormal blood flow, allowing inflammation to settle over time.
The procedure usually takes around one hour, and patients go home the same day.
Important information
Am I suitable for PFE?
Plantar fascia embolisation may be suitable for people who:
- Have chronic heel pain due to plantar fasciitis
- Have had symptoms for several months or longer
- Have not improved with treatments such as physiotherapy, insoles, injections, pain medication or ShockWave Therapy
- Wish to avoid surgery
- Are active and want to return to walking, exercise, or sport
PFE may also be an option for patients who are not suitable for surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach.
What are the benefits of PFE?
- Non-surgical treatment
- Day-case procedure with no overnight stay
- Targeted treatment addressing the source of pain
- Quick recovery with minimal disruption to daily life
- Preserves future treatment options, including surgery if ever needed
What is the success rate of PFE?
Plantar fascia embolisation has a high technical success rate, meaning the procedure can be performed safely and as planned in the vast majority of patients. Many people experience meaningful pain relief and improved function, often lasting longer than injection-based treatments.
Because PFE is a relatively new treatment, ongoing studies are helping to define how long benefits last and which patients respond best. Early results are encouraging, particularly for those with long-standing symptoms.
What are the risks of PFE?
PFE is generally considered a low-risk procedure, especially compared with surgery. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Possible risks include:
- Temporary heel pain or soreness after the procedure
- Bruising or minor bleeding at the catheter entry site
- Temporary numbness or irritation around the foot (uncommon)
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye (rare)
- Infection (extremely rare)
Serious complications are very uncommon when the procedure is performed by experienced specialists.
How long is the recovery period?
Recovery after PFE is usually quick. Some patients experience mild discomfort or aching in the heel for a few days to weeks as inflammation settles.
Most people can:
- Walk short distances the same day
- Return to normal daily activities within a few days
- Avoid strenuous exercise and high-impact activity for 1–2 weeks
Pain relief typically develops gradually over several weeks, rather than immediately.