How effective is cortisone injection for plantar fasciitis?

The injection places an anti-inflammatory medicine near the painful heel tissue. It may make standing and walking more comfortable while the underlying strain settles. Plantar fasciitis is often related to repeated loading of the band beneath the foot, so an injection cannot correct footwear, calf tightness, altered walking, or a sudden increase in activity. Relief may be temporary, and repeated injections can weaken the fascia or nearby tissues. A clinician should confirm that the pain is coming from plantar fasciitis before recommending it.

Discuss the injection after trying a plan matched to your foot: activity adjustment, supportive shoes, gentle calf and foot exercises, and a gradual return to loading. After an injection, follow the advised rest period and do not test the heel with strenuous exercise simply because it feels better. Ask whether physiotherapy, a night splint, or another option fits your symptoms and medical history. Read more about [Plantar Fasciitis](/conditions/plantar-fasciitis/) and [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/).

Seek prompt medical advice for a hot, increasingly red or swollen heel, fever, drainage, rapidly worsening pain, or inability to bear weight after the procedure. Arrange assessment if numbness, new weakness, or bruising spreads, or if heel pain persists despite the agreed recovery plan; another cause such as a nerve problem or stress injury may need consideration.

Ask what diagnosis supports the injection, how long to protect the foot afterward, what improvement would count as useful, and which exercises should begin when the pain settles. Also ask about alternatives and whether your diabetes, medicines, skin condition, or previous injections change the choice.