Carriero Foot and Ankle, Inc. — Foot and Ankle Surgery
Questions about a visit?Contact our team
Book an appointment
MenuClose

Carriero Foot & Ankle · Encinitas, CA

Cortisone
injections.

Targeted relief.
A plan that fits you.

Cortisone injections may ease pain and swelling from selected foot and ankle conditions. We start with an evaluation, then discuss whether an injection could help you move more comfortably.

Relief is part
of the plan.

Assessment, targeted treatment, and a care plan A checklist, a target, and a calendar represent discussing the diagnosis, choosing treatment, and planning follow-up. These are process symbols, not an anatomical illustration or a promised treatment result.
  1. 01 Assess
  2. 02 Treat
  3. 03 Plan
Cortisone is a corticosteroid medicine that reduces inflammation. We consider your diagnosis and treatment goals before recommending an injection.

Selected foot & ankle conditions

Where an injection
may help.

The right choice depends on the source of your pain. An injection may be one part of a plan that also includes footwear, support, stretching, or rehabilitation.

Explore by concern

View all three, or choose an area.

Persistent plantar heel pain

Plantar fasciitis.

Heel pain care

An injection may be considered when stretching, shoe changes, and other care have not provided enough relief. It may ease pain but does not cure plantar fasciitis. Your doctor will discuss risks such as tearing of the plantar fascia and thinning of the heel’s cushioning fat pad.

Painful, stiff joints

Arthritis & joint pain.

Ankle arthritis care

Selected joints, including the big toe or ankle, may benefit from an injection to reduce inflammation and improve comfort. Cortisone does not rebuild cartilage or reverse arthritis. Support, activity changes, or other treatment may still be needed.

Irritation around nerves or bursae

Neuroma & bursitis.

Neuroma care

For selected cases of Morton’s neuroma, an injection may calm irritation around the nerve. It may also help certain inflamed bursae—the small cushioning sacs near joints. Shoe changes or padding may be part of the plan.

Tendon problems need a separate discussion. Steroid injections are generally avoided for Achilles tendinitis because of the risk of a tendon tear.

Your visit & recovery

Before, during,
and after.

We’ll discuss the purpose, alternatives, and aftercare before you decide. You do not need to choose an injection before your visit.

  1. Review your history.

    Bring your medication list. Tell us about diabetes, blood thinners, allergies, infection or wounds, previous injections, and any planned surgery. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice from your prescribing clinician.

  2. Treat the right area.

    The skin is cleaned and medicine is injected into the selected area. A local anesthetic may be included to numb the area. Your doctor will explain the approach for your condition.

  3. Plan your return to activity.

    Follow your instructions for walking, work, exercise, and follow-up. You may need to limit strenuous activity for a short time. Feeling better immediately does not mean the area is ready for heavy loading.

A few helpful answers

Questions
about cortisone.

Choose a question to read more.

How soon might I feel relief?

The steroid often takes a few days to begin working. If local anesthetic is used, it may give earlier relief that wears off before the steroid takes effect. Some people have little or no improvement.

How long does relief last?

Relief may last weeks or months, but there is no fixed duration. It depends on the condition, the area treated, and your response. Ask what improvement is realistic and how your progress will be reviewed.

How many injections can I have?

There is no single schedule for every foot or ankle problem. Your doctor will consider the location, previous response, timing, and tissue risks before recommending another injection. More injections are not always the best next step.

Can I walk or drive afterward?

That depends on the area treated, any numbness, and your aftercare plan. Confirm walking and driving arrangements before treatment. You may need someone to drive you home, and strenuous activity may need to wait.

Will insurance cover the injection?

Coverage depends on your plan and the specific service. Ask the office about the proposed injection and any estimate, then check your benefits with your insurer. Copays, deductibles, and authorization requirements may apply.

Insurance information

Your next step

Let’s find
a more comfortable step.

Start with an evaluation of your foot or ankle concern. We’ll help you understand the options and what fits your care.