Cortisone Injections

Are you experiencing foot or ankle pain that’s affecting your daily life? Whether it’s from an injury, arthritis, or chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis, cortisone injections can provide relief and help you get back on your feet.

At Carriero Foot and Ankle in Encinitas, California, we specialize in treating a variety of foot and ankle conditions, and cortisone injections are one of the most effective ways to manage pain and inflammation.

What Is Cortisone and How Does It Help with Foot and Ankle Pain?

Plantar Fasciitis

Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that is commonly used to treat pain and swelling in the body’s joints.

When injected into the affected area of the foot or ankle, cortisone can quickly reduce inflammation, providing pain relief and helping to improve mobility. This makes it a go-to treatment for various conditions that cause foot and ankle pain, such as:

  • Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.
  • Arthritis: Joint inflammation in the foot or ankle, leading to pain and stiffness.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion your joints.
  • Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the foot or ankle, often due to overuse.
  • Gout: A form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals in the joints.

We take a personalized approach to treating foot and ankle pain, ensuring that cortisone injections are the right option for your condition.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections

  1. Effective Pain Relief: The primary benefit of cortisone injections is their ability to quickly relieve pain and inflammation, allowing for improved function and mobility.
  2. Minimal Recovery Time: Most people experience relief within a few days and can resume normal activities within a short time.
  3. Non-surgical Option: Cortisone injections offer a less invasive treatment option compared to surgery, which may be necessary in severe cases.
  4. Targeted Treatment: Since the injection is administered directly into the affected area, it targets the inflammation at the source, providing more precise relief.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

While cortisone injections can be extremely beneficial, they are not without their risks. Some potential side effects include:

  • Temporary Increase in Pain: Some people experience a flare-up of pain for a day or two after the injection, though this typically subsides.
  • Infection: As with any injection, there is a small risk of infection at the injection site.
  • Joint Damage: Overuse of cortisone injections in the same area can lead to cartilage damage or weakening of the bones, especially when injections are given frequently.
  • Elevated Blood Sugar: Cortisone can increase blood sugar levels temporarily, so those with diabetes should consult their doctor before proceeding with injections.
  • Skin Changes: In some cases, cortisone injections can cause thinning of the skin or changes in pigmentation.

Conclusion

Cortisone injections can offer significant relief for those suffering from inflammation and pain caused by a variety of conditions. However, they should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and other medical interventions.

If you’re dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain, don’t wait to get the treatment you need. At Carriero Foot and Ankle, we are committed to helping you find relief and get back to your active lifestyle. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn if a cortisone injection is right for you!

We’re proud to serve the Encinitas community and nearby areas like Carlsbad, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and Solana Beach. Let’s get you back to enjoying all that coastal North County has to offer.

Providers:


Dr. Keenan Carriero, DPM

Dr. Keenan Carriero, DPM

Foot and Ankle Surgery, Podiatrist

Dr. Zachary Kramer, DPM

Dr. Zachary Kramer, DPM

Foot and Ankle Surgery, Podiatrist

Clinic Hours


Monday
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Patient Resources


Frequently Asked Cortisone Injection Questions

Does insurance cover cortisone injections?

Typically, your insurance will cover for a cortisone injection. Talk with our staff to learn more about this.

What are side effects of cortisone injections?

Most common effects are pain at the injection site, bruising, and temporary swelling. Our doctors will go into more details about what to expect after evaluation.

How long do cortisone injections last for?

The effects of cortisone can last between 1-6 months or even longer. This can vary greatly depending on the pathology/injury being treated.

Are there any restrictions after cortisone injections?

Our physicians will likely recommend resting for several days after the injection. They also will likely advise against high impact activities initially.

Have additional questions?

Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors

or call (760)-642-7009.