Cortisone injection therapy
What is cortisone?
Cortisone refers to a group of corticosteroids, powerful anti-inflammatory medications used to reduce pain and swelling in the foot and lower limb. In podiatry, cortisone injections are commonly used when inflammation contributes to conditions such as tendon pain, joint discomfort, bursitis, or soft tissue scarring.
Indications for podiatric cortisone injections
Corticosteroid injections can be effective for:
- Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy
- Arthritic joints of the foot and ankle
- Bursitis, including retrocalcaneal or metatarsal bursitis
- Tenosynovitis or tendon sheath inflammation
- Hypertrophic scars or keloids of the foot, to reduce thickened scar tissue and improve flexibility
How it works
Cortisone reduces local inflammation, relieving pain and improving mobility. Evidence shows injections can provide short- to medium-term pain relief and assist in functional recovery, particularly when combined with rehabilitation, stretching, orthotics, or footwear adjustments.
Procedure
- The skin is cleaned with antiseptic.
- Ultrasound guidance is used at times to accurately target tendons, joints, or scar tissue.
- A fine needle delivers a combination of local anaesthetic and cortisone into the affected area.
Choice of cortisone
A variety of corticosteroid preparations exist, from short- to long-acting formulations. Your podiatrist selects the most suitable type based on the foot pathology, location, tissue type, and desired effect, to maximise relief while minimising risk.
Patient experience
Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and any post-procedure soreness usually settles within a few days. Cortisone injections can help soften foot keloid or hypertrophic scars, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility of affected areas.
Evidence-based practice
Research supports cortisone injections for inflammatory foot and ankle conditions, tendinopathies, and scar management. They are most effective when part of a comprehensive podiatry treatment plan including exercises, manual therapy, orthotics, and footwear modifications.