Treatment Guide
Cortisone Injections
Targeted anti-inflammatory injections for rapid pain relief from foot and ankle conditions.
Overview
Cortisone injections - also called corticosteroid injections - deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory agent directly into the site of pain and inflammation. Unlike oral anti-inflammatory medications, which are distributed throughout the entire body, a local cortisone injection concentrates the medication precisely where it is needed, providing faster, stronger, and more sustained relief with minimal systemic exposure. In podiatric practice, cortisone injections are used for a wide range of conditions: plantar fasciitis, bursitis, Morton's neuroma, tendinitis, arthritis flare-ups, and post-traumatic joint inflammation. The injection typically combines a corticosteroid with a local anesthetic - providing immediate temporary pain relief followed by a longer-lasting anti-inflammatory effect that builds over the next few days.
Benefits
- Rapid relief - many patients experience significant improvement within 24-72 hours
- Targeted delivery directly to the inflamed tissue
- Minimal systemic side effects compared to oral steroids
- Can allow a pain-free window to begin physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Quick in-office procedure - typically takes under 5 minutes
- Effective for arthritis, plantar fasciitis, neuroma, tendinitis, and bursitis
What to Expect
The injection site is cleaned with antiseptic and a brief local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort. Dr. Golan precisely identifies the target structure - using anatomical landmarks or ultrasound guidance for deeper or smaller targets - and delivers the injection. A brief stinging sensation is common during the anesthetic portion. You may experience a temporary flare of soreness for 24-48 hours after injection as the cortisone begins to work, followed by progressive pain reduction. Dr. Golan recommends limiting high-impact activity for 48-72 hours post-injection. The number of injections is limited - generally no more than 3 per site per year - to protect the surrounding tissues.
Who Is a Candidate?
Cortisone injections are appropriate for patients with plantar fasciitis, heel bursitis, Morton's neuroma, Achilles tendinitis (peritendinous injection), ankle arthritis, and other inflammatory foot conditions that have not fully responded to conservative care. Patients with diabetes should be aware that cortisone can temporarily elevate blood sugar and should monitor glucose levels closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cortisone injection last?
Relief typically lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the condition, its severity, and the individual's response. For chronic conditions, cortisone is often used as part of a broader treatment plan rather than as a standalone cure.
Is the injection painful?
Most patients tolerate the injection well. A brief stinging sensation occurs with the local anesthetic, followed by pressure as the cortisone is delivered. Ultrasound guidance improves accuracy and reduces discomfort in many cases.
How many injections can I receive?
We generally limit cortisone injections to 3 per site per year. Repeated high-dose injections can weaken tendons, thin the fat pad, and accelerate cartilage degradation.
Ready to get started?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Golan to find out if cortisone injections is the right treatment for you.
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