Steroid injection for plantar fasciitis

Steroid injection (also known as corticosteroid or cortisone injections) are another treatment option for plantar fasciitis. Fitzroy Foot and Ankle Clinic podiatrist, Dr Glen Whittaker, is endorsed to prescribe medicines including steroids. It is important to note that steroid injections may only provide short term pain relief, and should not be considered a 'cure' for plantar fasciitis.

To learn more about steroid injections, including the precautions and risks, see our page on ultrasound-guided injections.

​What to expect

These injections can be administered in different ways, however we typically use ultrasound guidance and inject through the inside of the heel. Using this approach is less painful than some other approaches. Another approach is to provide an injection behind the ankle to make the bottom of the foot numb, before administering the steroid injection. Using this approach is the most comfortable, but means the foot will be numb, and walking might be difficult for some time after.

After the injection

Your heel will be numb for several hours following the cortisone injection, so you should arrange someone to collect you from the clinic. It is important to rest your foot for 48 hours following the injection, and it is common to experience a slight increase in pain that will settle after a few days. For 4 weeks after the injection you should avoid standing for long periods and explosive activities such as running or jumping.