Cortisone Injections for Foot & Ankle

What are Cortisone Injections?

Cortisone Injections are a common treatment for conditions of the foot and ankle. 

Cortisone Injections are used to reduce:
  • Swelling, 
  • Pain and 
  • Stiffness 

Advantages of Cortisone Injections

The advantages of Cortisone Injection treatment is that they are:
  • Non-invasive, 
  • Non-surgical, 
  • Fast acting, and 
  • Very effective.

Conditions Cortisone Injections Help Relieve

Cortisone Injections can be used in most conditions that cause associated foot and ankle swelling and pain. 

Some of the conditions that may be helped by Cortisone Injections include:

Why are Cortisone Injections Required?

Cortisone Injections are required if normal medication and physical therapy have been unable to relieve pain and swelling. 

The main purpose of this treatment is to improve the quality of life for the patient and provide relief.

Who are Cortisone Injections Suitable For?

Cortisone Injections are a good procedural option for anyone who is 
  • in good health, and 
  • when no other comorbidities or contraindications exist that may exclude the patient from this treatment option are present.

Preparation Before Cortisone Injections

In order to prepare for the treatment, the patient should be adequately counselled to ensure that the informed consent is obtained and the treatment is understood. 

The doctor will:
  • Take a medical history,
  • Conduct a physical examination, and
  • You may be asked to have a number of tests to ensure that the injections are suitable.

Day of Cortisone Injections Procedure

This procedure can be carried out in minutes at the doctor’s office. 

The patient is either made to sit or lie down, while the doctor then administers the Cortisone Injection.

The patient may feel a burning or pinching sensation that goes away quickly.  

In some cases, the doctor may recommend either general anesthesia or a local numbing medication be applied to the injection site. This can be discussed.

Immediately After Cortisone Injections

Normally, the patient can go home immediately or carry on with their day, with the only instruction is to rest the injected area for one to two days. 

In cases where there is local pain, the patient is advised to rest for two days before resuming normal activities.

What Should I Expect After Cortisone Injections?

The patient will experience some soreness, but normally pain relief and reduced swelling within days of cortisone injection treatment.

The patient can take oral painkillers to help with the pain for the first few days.

Stages of Recovery After Cortisone Injections

There is usually no recovery time associated with the Cortisone Injections. 

The local soreness in the area goes away quickly. The doctor may advise you to schedule a follow-up appointment after three months of the treatment. 

Possible Risk or Complications of Cortisone Injections

The possible risks with Cortisone Injections to the ankle or foot can include:
  • infection, 
  • osteoporosis (bone thinning), 
  • punctured vein due to improper administration, and 
  • weakened tendons. 
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