Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections
Cortisone is used to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. It is often the best technique for “putting out the fire”.
What is Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections?
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections involve administering an anti-inflammatory medication directly to the site of pain, with ultrasound technology helping direct the needle to the exact problem spot.
When is the Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections needed?
Cortisone injections are used to treat severe pain and cases that don’t respond to first line treatments such as ice or anti-inflammatory drugs. The following are some of the inflammatory conditions of the feet that respond well to cortisone injections:
- Plantar fasciitis / heel spur syndrome
- Bursitis
- Morton’s neuroma
- Arthritis or inflammation of a joint
- Inflammatory arthritis (gout, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, etc.)
- Capsulitis
- Bunions (hallux valgus)
- Hammertoes
- Sinus tarsi syndrome
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Tenosynovitis
What are the benefits of ultrasound-guided cortisone injections?
- Works quickly and effectively
- A concentrated dose of the medication is applied to the target area
- Avoids the gastrointestinal side effects of oral anti-inflammatory drugs
- Unlike with pills, the effect is local and non-systemic; the medication doesn’t circulate throughout the entire body
- Ultrasound-guided injections are precise, which increases efficacy and decreases risk
- The procedure is performed at the podiatrist’s clinic
- The cortisone is combined with a local anesthetic to provide immediate relief
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Evaluation of the patient's condition :
A review of the patient's medical history, a biomechanical evaluationand X-rays must be conducted before deciding on a course of treatment that involves cortisone injections.
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Diagnostic ultrasound :
An initial ultrasound examination must be performed to evaluate the foot's structures, identify the problem region, determine the severity of the problem and measure the inflamed area.
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Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections :
Real-time guidance through ultrasoundallows the practitioner to track the location of the needle and view the targeted injection site.
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Support bandages :
The podiatrist may place a temporary support bandage on the foot.
Cortisone is just a band-aid solution for pain!
Cortisone doesn't mask the pain, it effectively eliminates inflammation in a swollen or inflamed region. However, it's very important to initially address the cause of the pain and tackle the problem to prevent recurrence. For example, pain caused by poor foot alignment such as flat feet can return if the underlying foot condition isn't also addressed. That's why a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's condition is essential before opting for cortisone injections, which are usually accompanied by other treatment options.
Cortisone is dangerous!
The body naturally produces cortisol, a closely related hormone, in the adrenal glands. Thus, the substance is naturally present in our bodies. Side effects only appear when excessive amounts of the medication are repeatedly injected into the same area. But even these effects remain local. As a treatment option, the benefits of cortisone often outweigh the risks.
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