Patient Forms Online Bill Pay
22510 SE 64th Pl, Issaquah, WA 98027
(425) 358-4707
The Foot and Ankle Center of Issaquah

Plantar Fasciitis and TENEX™

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most noticeable symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, which may present as:

  • Increased pain after periods of inactivity
  • Heightened heel pain following exercise
  • Swelling and tenderness in the heel
  • A tight Achilles tendon

When heel pain persists for several months or even years and does not respond to conservative treatments, your foot doctor may recommend a minimally invasive procedure like TENEX™.

What is TENEX™?

TENEX™ is a minimally invasive procedure designed to address chronic tendon pain using advanced ultrasound technology. Here’s how it works:

  • A small incision is made in the affected area.
  • An ultrasonic burr is inserted through this incision.
  • The burr emits ultrasonic energy to break down and remove damaged tissue.

This quick, outpatient procedure typically takes less than 20 minutes and is performed under IV sedation. TENEX™ has proven highly effective in treating chronic tendon conditions like plantar fasciitis. Studies show that patients experience significant pain relief and improved functionality after undergoing TENEX™.

How Does TENEX™ Treat Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis often results from repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, leading to microtears and inflammation. While traditional treatments—such as rest, ice, stretching, and physical therapy—can help, they may take time and don't always provide significant relief.

TENEX™ offers a more precise approach:

  • The ultrasonic burr is inserted directly into the affected area.
  • It targets and removes damaged tissue while preserving healthy tissue.
  • Damaged tissue removal reduces inflammation and pressure on the plantar fascia, enabling the healing process and providing pain relief.

With minimal downtime, most patients return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.

Benefits of TENEX™ for Plantar Fasciitis

TENEX™ offers several advantages, including:

  • High Effectiveness: Proven to provide significant pain relief and improved function.
  • Minimally Invasive: Requires only a small incision <1cm and avoids reducing complications and speeding recovery.
  • Quick Recovery
  • Precise Treatment: Targets damaged tissue without affecting healthy tissue.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Helps initiate healing and provides extended pain relief.

Is TENEX™ Right for You?

If you’ve been struggling with plantar fasciitis and other treatments have failed, TENEX™ could be a viable option. Your podiatrist can help determine if you’re a good candidate. Ideal candidates are typically in good overall health and have chronic tendon pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments.

Additional Information

TENEX™ can be performed under local anesthetic, IV sedation.. The ultrasonic burr effectively breaks up scar tissue, calcifications, and diseased tissue in the plantar fascia while boosting blood supply to accelerate healing. This outpatient procedure lasts about 10-20 minutes and 1-2 stiches,

Watch a detailed video of the procedure here:

22510 SE 64th Pl, Issaquah, WA 98027