Injection therapy is a treatment that can be prescribed for the improvement of painful foot and ankle conditions that are associated with inflammation.
Injection therapy involves using a needle to inject a steroid into a joint space or soft tissue. The aim of injection therapy is to improve both pain and function of the structure affected.
Injections may be suitable if you are experiencing pain due to:
Before a injection is prescribed you will be required to have a consultation to establish the nature of the problem and assessment of suitability for the procedure.
A steroid (cortisone) injection is used to treat pain caused by inflammation in the joints and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. Steroids are not direct painkillers—they work by powerfully reducing inflammation, which in turn reduces pain.
These injections contain a synthetic form of cortisone plus a local anaesthetic. Unlike the body’s natural cortisone, which is short-acting and released into the bloodstream, the injected steroid is placed directly at the problem area and acts locally, limiting systemic side effects. The synthetic cortisone is long-acting, providing longer-lasting relief from symptoms.
Hyaluronic acid injections help reduce pain and stiffness in joints. They work by lubricating the joint, easing movement and improving shock absorption. Most commonly used for osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle, they can provide relief for up to nine months.
Steroid injections help reduce inflammation and provide fast pain relief during flare-ups. They’re most useful when a joint or soft tissue is irritated and swollen.
Hyaluronic acid injections act as a lubricant and shock absorber within the joint. They don’t work as quickly as steroids, but can provide longer-lasting relief—especially for osteoarthritis.
In short: steroids calm inflammation quickly; hyaluronic acid improves joint lubrication for steadier, longer-term relief.
The recommended advice is a course of 3 injections at no less than 6 weekly intervals over the course of 12 months.
It is advisable to rest the joint or affected part for two to three days after injection. Try not to undertake any of the previous movements or activities that you know irritates the problem. After this, a slow return to normal activity is recommended.
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