Proximal Medial Longitudinal Arch Incision for Plantar Fascia Release

A curved, oblique plantar incision in the proximal aspect in the medial longitudinal arch was used to release the plantar fascia in eight feet with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. Seven feet became pain free and the eighth was 75% improved. Normal sensation to the heel was preserved in all cases. No painful scars or neuromas of the calcaneal branch of the posterior tibial nerve developed. This approach represents a significant improvement over previously reported surgical approaches.