ID: 219222 Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Refractory Plantar Fibromatosis Pain: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

41-year-old man was referred by orthopedics to the outpatient pain clinic with history of chronic bilateral plantar heel pain and a diagnosis of plantar fibromatosis following diagnostic ultrasound evaluation. He had failed numerous non-operative treatments including shoe wear modification, orthoses, physical therapy, acupuncture, shock wave therapy, ultrasound guided corticosteroid injection, and percutaneous needle tenotomy. Upon initial consultation, the patient endorsed a 5-year history of bilateral medial plantar heel pain, provoked with weight bearing activities. He denied paresthesias and weakness. Given his refractory symptoms joint the decision was made to proceed with a diagnostic block of his more symptomatic side with goal to pursue bilateral percutaneous 60-day peripheral nerve stimulator placement if he experienced a favorable response. Diagnostic target was the left tibial nerve just proximal to the medial malleolus and prior to its division into plantar and calcaneal branches. Diagnostic injectate consisted of 2cc 1% lidocaine and 5mg of dexamethasone for a total volume of 2.5cc. Patient rated his pain 8/10 prior to injection and 0/10 following. He subsequently underwent placement of dual peripheral nerve stimulators targeting the bilateral tibial nerves with implantation 5cm proximal to the medial malleoli. At 60 day follow up, the device was explanted. The patient was no longer tender with palpation of either foot. He reported 50% reduction compared to pre-operative pain, significant improvement in his quality of life and physical functioning, and a reduction in oral analgesic regimen. The patient is currently awaiting permanent stimulator placement.