Veteran outfielder Scott Podsednik led the major leagues in stolen bases in 2004 with 70, but chronic pain from plantar fasciitis benched him off and on during his 12-year career.

Too bad they hadn't yet found that injecting his own body fat into his foot could treat the persistent, crippling pain.

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes and supports the arch. It affects around 2 million people in the U.S.

For many people with an acute form of the condition, cold packs for 20 minutes three times a day, stretching, shoe orthotics, or cortisone injections provide relief. But about 10% of folks develop chronic problems that cause the foot's collagen to degenerate and the connective tissue to thicken.

Now researchers have published a pilot study in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery that suggests the use of stem cells and growth factors in the body's fat, when injected to the inflamed area, may stimulate wound healing with reduced scarring. This is in place of the traditional approach, which involves the surgical release of the connective tissue, sometimes causing scar tissue and more pain, or triggering destabilization of the foot.

A larger clinical study is coming. Researchers want the procedure to be recognized as a medical necessity so it can be covered by insurance and become more widely available.

I'm skeptical, but hopeful. If you're limping along with plantar fasciitis, ask your podiatrist or orthopedic foot specialist to watch for more data about this potential treatment.