Topaz Procedure for Heel Pain

How does the Topaz coblation procedure work?

The entire process takes only 20 minutes and is performed in a hospital using intravenous sedation anesthetic (you are asleep but breathing on your own). Your doctor places the Topaz wand, which looks like a sewing needle, into the affected fascia or tendon for just a half-second. Then, the wand is moved about a quarter-inch and pushed in again. This action is repeated until a grid-like pattern is formed around the affected area.

The Topaz wand uses cobalation technologies, which are radio frequency waves that gently cause microscopic “trauma” to the scar tissue your body hasn’t yet been able to heal. The procedure brings blood back to the affected area and restarts the healing process by increasing the growth factors in the damaged tissue region. The strategically placed Topaz wand greatly minimizes any damage to surrounding healthy tissue.  

Because the method is minimally invasive, recovery time from the Topaz procedure can be measured in weeks instead of months.  After a week in a walking boot, most patients can begin wearing athletics shoes with orthotic inserts.

What is the success rate of the Topaz procedure?

The topaz treatment is successful 80% of the time. It’s important to note that the pain relief is not instantaneous and it may actually get worse before it gets better. However, once your recovery is complete, your pain is relieved and the tendon is back to normal. As long as you stretch the tendon and wear supportive shoes and/or orthotics, your condition should not recur.

Is Topaz covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans will cover the Topaz procedure. We have had it covered in our practice and are happy to help you should you require this procedure. Please note we did the initial clinical studies on the Topaz procedure and have extensive experience with it.

How UFAI leads the way

The podiatrists at University Foot and Ankle Institute are nationally recognized as experts in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain.  They pride themselves in offering the very latest treatment options and often assist in the development of advanced technologies, including Topaz procedure.

Determining your best course of treatment begins with an analysis of your physical ailment, as well as assessing how your personal and professional demands impact your foot and ankle condition. Sometimes a patient’s lifestyle doesn’t allow for the amount of recovery time required for some treatments, such as those who cannot get enough time off their feet at work or professional athletes. UFAI doctors always take these factors into account when discussing treatment options and making recommendations.

If you are not getting adequate relief from your plantar fasciitis or heel pain, or you've exhausted all other nonsurgical treatment options, please call to set up a consultation. You and one of our friendly (and very experienced) doctors will review your current condition the physical demands of your lifestyle and help you chart a course of action that gets you on the road to recovery.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call (877) 736-6001 or make an appointment online now.

University Foot and Ankle Institute is conveniently located throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area as our foot doctors are available at locations in or near Santa Monica (on Wilshire Blvd.), El Segundo, Downtown Los Angeles, Westlake Village, Santa Barbara, and Valencia to name a few.

 

Topaz procedure FAQs

 

Is the topaz procedure a radiofrequency treatment?

The Topaz surgical procedure is indeed a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses radiofrequency energy. During the Topaz Procedure, radiofrequency energy is applied to the affected tendon or tissue to stimulate a healing response and promote tissue regeneration.

 

Can the Topaz procedure help relieve heel pain?

This medical procedure is particularly well-suited for patients dealing with the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a ligament situated along the underside of your foot, running from your heel to your toes. While plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, it's not the only cause. It’s important that you consult a foot and ankle specialist (DPM) for proper diagnosis and treatment.