When is cortisone injection recommended for plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis affects the strong band under the foot and often causes pain near the heel, especially with the first steps after rest. Calf and foot stretching, gradual strengthening, supportive shoes, activity pacing, and other clinician-guided measures are commonly used. Cortisone can reduce local inflammation, but relief is variable and repeated treatment may have downsides for the tissues under the heel. A careful examination helps balance possible benefit with alternatives.

Write down when heel pain is worst, whether it follows a change in exercise or footwear, and how far you can comfortably walk. Use supportive footwear and avoid repeatedly testing painful impact activities. Tell the clinician about diabetes, circulation concerns, blood-thinning medicines, allergies, skin problems, and previous injections. Follow instructions about loading the foot after treatment and monitor the site.

Arrange prompt assessment for sudden severe heel pain, inability to bear weight, significant swelling, a wound, fever, or pain after an injury. After an injection, seek urgent advice for increasing redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or severe worsening pain. New numbness, weakness, or a cold or unusually pale foot also needs timely review.

Ask whether your symptoms fit plantar fasciitis, what options should be tried first, and why an injection is being considered now. Discuss tissue-related concerns, aftercare, activity progression, and what review is needed if heel pain does not improve.