As a Podiatrist, I’ve seen how foot and ankle conditions can really impact someone’s daily life. That’s why I often turn to steroid injections as a way to provide relief to my patients. I’d like to take a moment to explain the benefits of using these injections and the mechanism behind them, so you have a better understanding of how they can help.
First of all, let’s talk about what steroids are. They’re a type of medication that work by reducing swelling and pain in the affected area. The steroid I often use in my practice is called depo-medrone, and it’s a fast and long-acting anti-inflammatory. Essentially, it helps to calm down the immune response in the affected area, reducing swelling and pain, and even has a pain-relieving effect on its own.
These injections can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, heel pain, bursitis, Morton’s Neuroma and Joint Pain. According to a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, corticosteroid injections have been shown to be effective in treating plantar fasciitis (Iannitti et al., 2010). And the great news is, they can often be used along with other treatments like physical therapy or orthotics for even better results.
So, how does depo-medrone actually work? Essentially, it decreases the production of certain inflammatory molecules, reducing swelling and pain in the affected area (Jönsson & Peterson, 2006). This allows you to get back to your normal activities faster and with less discomfort.
In short, steroid injections are a safe and effective option for many foot and ankle conditions. According to a review of the literature, corticosteroids have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect in tendons (Jönsson & Peterson, 2006). They can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation and swelling, and can be a great addition to your overall treatment plan.
In addition to steroid injections, several other treatments can be effective in managing foot and ankle conditions. Here’s a closer look at four other treatments we could use to help you.
Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts, or orthotics, can be a highly effective solution for a range of foot and ankle conditions. They work by redistributing weight and pressure, which can help to alleviate pain and prevent further injury. Orthotics can be custom-made to fit your specific needs and can be an effective alternative for those who are unable to take medications or who are looking for a non-invasive treatment option.
Ostenil injections: Ostenil is a type of non-steroidal injection that can help to manage pain and inflammation in the foot and ankle. Unlike steroid injections, Ostenil injections are designed to have a low risk of side effects, making them a safe and effective alternative for many patients. They work by reducing pain and swelling, which can help to improve range of motion and overall function in the affected area.
Shockwave Therapy: Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area. It has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with a range of foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Shockwave therapy is typically performed in a series of treatments, with each session lasting only a few minutes.
MLS Class 4 Laser Therapy: MLS Class 4 laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses a laser to reduce pain and promote healing in the affected area. It works by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, which can help to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and increase the speed of recovery. MLS Class 4 laser therapy is a safe and effective alternative for those who are unable to take medications or who are looking for a non-surgical treatment option.
It’s important to remember that the best course of treatment will depend on the specific foot and ankle condition and the severity of the issue. Our Podiatrists can help to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. If you have any questions about whether this type of treatment might be right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help!
References:
Iannitti T, Pappone N, Postacchini F, Cipriano G. Efficacy of corticosteroid injection for plantar fasciitis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Foot Ankle Int. 2010 Sep;31(9):731-9.
Jönsson P, Peterson L. Anti-inflammatory effect of corticosteroids in tendons: a review of the literature. Br J Sports Med. 2006 Nov;40(11):887-91.