Plantar Fasciitis Rupture: Symptoms, Treatments and More

Plantar fasciitis affects the thick tissue band on the bottom of your feet, the plantar fascia. It is a tissue that connects your heel to your toes and supports your arch. When this tissue tears or ruptures, the pain can become unbearable. Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms, causes, and treatment options of plantar fasciitis rupture.

What Is a Ruptured Plantar Fascia?

A ruptured plantar fascia happens when the tissue that supports your foot’s arch tears, either partially or completely. This injury commonly results from untreated or severe plantar fasciitis. People with this condition often feel a sudden, sharp pain in their heel or arch, which makes walking nearly impossible.

What does a plantar fasciitis rupture feel like? It feels like a sharp, intense pain in your foot. It is particularly in the heel or arch. You might hear or feel a pop in your foot when it happens. The pain usually comes on quickly, followed by swelling or bruising. This is the time you should seek treatment for plantar fasciitis in Arizona.

Plantar Fascia Tear vs. Rupture

A plantar fascia tear is a partial injury to the tissue, while a rupture refers to a complete tear. Both cause pain, but a rupture tends to be much more severe. Tears might heal faster, while ruptures usually need more time and attention.

What Happens If Plantar Fasciitis Ruptures?

When a rupture happens, you lose your ability to support your foot’s arch. This lack of support can cause the arch to flatten and cause foot instability. Over time, a rupture can affect your walking patterns and may even cause chronic pain if untreated.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fasciitis Rupture?

A severe plantar fasciitis rupture comes with clear symptoms. Some key signs indicate:

• Sudden, sharp pain in the heel or arch
• Swelling or bruising along the bottom of the foot
• Difficulty standing or walking
• A popping sound or sensation in the foot during activity

How Do You Fix a Ruptured Plantar Fascia?

A successful plantar fasciitis rupture treatment depends on the severity of the tear. Non-surgical methods often work well, especially if caught early. Here’s how you should do it:

• Stop any activities that put weight on your foot.
• Apply ice to decrease swelling and numb the pain.
• Wrap the foot with a bandage to provide support.
• Keep your foot raised to minimize swelling.
• Use anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Strengthen the foot with guided exercises.
• Use custom insoles or braces to support your arch.
• Surgery may be required to repair the rupture in severe cases.

Plantar Fasciitis Rupture Surgery

When non-surgical treatments fail, surgery is recommended to heal the problem or in cases of severe, long-term damage. The aim of the surgery is to repair the torn tissue and relieve the tension causing chronic pain.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Our doctor administers local or general anesthesia to numb the area or put you to sleep.
2. We make a small cut near the heel or arch of the foot.
3. Our surgeon removes or repairs the damaged tissue in the plantar fascia.
4. In some cases, we cut a part of the fascia to relieve tension. (Fasciotomy)
5. Then, our surgeon stitches the incision to close it.

In some cases, you may need endoscopic surgery, which uses small incisions and specialized instruments. This technique offers faster recovery times and less post-operative pain compared to open surgery.

Surgery Aftercare

After surgery, you will likely need to:

• Wear a boot or cast to protect your foot immobile.
• Avoid weight-bearing activities for several weeks to allow proper healing.
• Physical therapy to restore foot function, strengthen the muscles, and improve flexibility.

Plantar Fasciitis Rupture Recovery Time

Based on the injury’s severity, recovery times

vary and the treatment. Here’s what you need to know:

• Recovery takes about 6 to 12 weeks, which includes resting, physical therapy, and using orthotic supports to heal the tissue.
• If surgery is necessary, expect a recovery period of 3 to 6 months. You usually need about 6 to 8 weeks before starting any form of physical therapy or light activities.
• For athletes or people involved in high-impact activities, full recovery may take 6 to 12 months.

How are Plantar Fascia Ruptures in Athletes?

Athletes put a lot of strain on their feet, especially in high-impact sports like running, basketball, or tennis. Therefore, athletes face a higher risk of plantar fascia ruptures due to the high impact and stress placed on their feet. The constant stress on the tissue can weaken it over time. Inappropriate management leads to tears or ruptures. Proper warm-ups, supportive footwear, and strengthening exercises can reduce the risk of injury.

Can Plantar Fasciitis Cause Achilles Tendon Rupture?

While plantar fasciitis doesn’t directly cause an Achilles tendon rupture, both conditions share some similarities. Both can result from poor foot mechanics or tight calf muscles, putting stress on the feet. Plantar fasciitis affects the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot, while an Achilles tendon rupture involves a total tear of the tendon at the back of the ankle.

Plantar Fasciitis Rupture Management in Arizona

If you suspect a rupture in your plantar fascia, don’t wait! At Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers, our experienced podiatrists are here to help with expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Whether you need conservative care or surgery, we’ve got you covered. Visit us online to learn more and schedule your appointment.

Conclusion

A plantar fasciitis rupture is a painful situation that can have long-term consequences if not treated properly. For a full recovery, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential . From non-surgical options to surgery for more severe cases, the right care will get you back on your feet sooner rather than later.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to heal a plantar fascia tear?

Rest your foot and apply ice to reduce swelling. Physical therapy and using orthotics can also speed up healing. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend a brace or splint for added support.

Can you walk with a ruptured plantar fascia?

Walking with a ruptured fascia can be extremely painful. It’s best to avoid walking or putting weight on the foot until you receive treatment. Rest is crucial for recovery.

When is plantar fasciitis an emergency?

It becomes an emergency if you hear a popping sound followed by sharp pain and swelling. These signs indicate a possible rupture, which needs immediate medical attention.

Can plantar fasciitis rupture?

Yes, untreated or severe cases can lead to a rupture, especially in cases of high-impact activities or prolonged stress on the feet.