Injections
What is a corticosteroid injections?
Corticosteroid injections are a common treatment option for various foot and ankle conditions. These injections involve the administration of a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected area of the foot. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility in patients with certain foot conditions.
Conditions that may benefit from corticosteroid injections include:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is a common condition characterized by heel pain, often experienced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Corticosteroid injections can be effective in reducing inflammation and providing relief.
- Achilles Tendinitis: This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which can cause pain and stiffness in the back of the heel. Corticosteroid injections may be recommended in cases where conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
- Bursitis: Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. Inflammation of the bursa can lead to pain and swelling. Corticosteroid injections can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Morton’s Neuroma: This is a condition characterized by thickening of the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes. Corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with Morton’s Neuroma.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Corticosteroid injections may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to manage pain and inflammation in the joints of the foot.
It’s important to note that while corticosteroid injections can provide significant relief, they are not a long-term solution for all conditions. They are typically used in conjunction with other treatments such as physical therapy, orthotics, and lifestyle modifications.
Additionally, corticosteroid injections do come with some potential risks and side effects, which may include temporary pain at the injection site, thinning of the skin, and, in rare cases, infection. It’s crucial for patients to discuss the potential benefits and risks with their podiatrist before undergoing this treatment.
Ultimately, corticosteroid injections can be a valuable tool in managing foot and ankle conditions, providing relief for patients experiencing pain and inflammation. However, they should be used judiciously and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual’s specific needs. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment options.
Prolotherapy (injection therapy)
‘Prolo’- therapy is short for proliferative therapy. This is an injection technique designed to stimulate tissue regeneration for chronic soft tissue injuries. Prolotherapy uses a glucose and local anaesthetic mixture to promote healing of injured joints, ligaments and tendons. This solution is designed to stimulate a local influx of white blood cells and platelets including the important pre collagen growth factors needed for tissue repair.
When treating chronic lower limb tendon or ligament injuries that fail standard conservative care, this can be a very effective option to speed recovery or prevent the need for surgical management. In the foot and ankle, it is commonly used to treat heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, Achilles tendonitis, plantar plate and ankle injuries.
Prolotherapy is a safe, effective injection technique used for the treatment of joints, ligaments and tendons which may be injured and strained
