Plantar Fascia Embolization (PFE)

Plantar Fascia Embolization (PFE) for Chronic Heel Pain

At Heart Vascular and Leg Center, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive treatments to help patients find lasting relief from chronic foot and heel pain. One of the most innovative solutions we offer is Plantar Fascia Embolization (PFE) — a cutting-edge procedure designed to treat plantar fasciitis, a common condition that causes persistent heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot). PFE works by safely reducing the abnormal blood flow that fuels inflammation in the heel. This restores balance to the affected tissue, relieves pain, and promotes healing — without the need for surgery or lengthy recovery time.

Plantar Fascia Embolization Procedure

At Heart Vascular and Leg Center, your comfort and care come first. The PFE procedure is performed by our skilled vascular specialists using state-of-the-art imaging for precision and safety. Here’s what to expect:

  • A small catheter is inserted through a pin-sized puncture, typically in the upper thigh.
  • Using real-time imaging guidance, tiny particles are delivered into the arteries that supply excess blood flow to the inflamed plantar fascia.
  • These particles reduce inflammation and pain while preserving normal circulation to the rest of the foot.
  • The procedure typically takes less than one hour, is performed under local anesthesia, and does not require stitches or general anesthesia.

You can walk immediately after and return home the same day.

Candidates for Plantar Fascia Embolization

You may be a candidate for PFE if you have chronic heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis that has not improved with conservative therapies. You might benefit from PFE if you:

  • Have persistent heel pain lasting longer than 6 months
  • Have tried physical therapy, orthotics, or steroid injections without lasting relief
  • Experience pain that interferes with walking, exercise, or standing for long periods
  • Want to avoid surgery or are not a candidate for traditional foot surgery
  • Have inflammation shown on imaging studies despite prior treatments

Our vascular specialists will review your medical history, imaging, and previous treatments to determine if PFE is the right option for you.

Benefits of Plantar Fascia Embolization

PFE offers a highly effective, non-surgical approach to relieving heel pain and restoring mobility. Most patients experience noticeable improvement in pain and activity level within weeks after treatment. Key Benefits Include:

  • Minimally invasive – no incision or stitches

  • Outpatient procedure – return home the same day

  • Quick recovery – resume normal activities within days

  • No general anesthesia required

  • Long-lasting pain relief with improved mobility

  • No hospital stay or scarring

Preserves future treatment options if needed

Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment with Heart Vascular & Leg Center
today for personalized care and advanced treatment.

Our Providers

Dr. Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC

Dr. Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Dr. Newton Phuong, MD

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Dr. Massoud Arbabzedah, MD

Gerardo Murguia, PA-C

Gerardo Murguia, PA-C

Elsita Mathew, FNP-C

Elsita Mathew, FNP-C

Advanced Vascular Treatments, Trusted Care

Services

5020 Commerce Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309

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