Ultrasound-guided injections for plantar fasciitis using either steroid or PRP (Platelet-rich plasma) has been known to aid rehabilitation and speed up recovery.
It is also used in the clinic for those who have chronic pain and have exhausted all other known treatments.
However, it is important to gain a diagnosis and to encourage natural healing before opting for this treatment.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Signs of plantar fasciitis are heel pain and stiffness, which intensifies during walking or general exercise, wearing flat shoes, and after rest, first thing in the morning, for example.
Suppose you have any of the above symptoms. In that case, a complete assessment can be performed, including an ultrasound scan, giving us a clear image of the area and help us determine if the plantar fascia has further damage, like a tear.
An ultrasound scan can also rule out other conditions, including vascular, neurological, and arthritis.
How do I treat plantar fasciitis?
General rehabilitation includes load management, stretches, and exercises that should help recover and prevent plantar fasciitis from recurring.
It is essential to rest, especially if you are in pain and the condition has been aggravated by an activity such as walking.
Treatment for recovery at home includes –
Load management
Load management is an instinct that kicks in when someone is in pain. Reducing the amount of pressure put on the foot, for example, running less, or not at all for the first few weeks, sitting and resting more often if your job entails standing, etc.
Strength exercises
Studies have found high load exercises can help in the recovery of plantar fasciitis. These included –
- Plantar fascia wall stretches.
- Intrinsic Towel Strengthening Exercise.
- Towel stretch.
- Standing Calf Stretch.
- Standing Heel Raises.
If wanting to perform these exercises at home, you can find videos on Youtube. Alternatively, you can book in with our physiotherapist, who can instruct you and correct any weight-bearing issues you may have.
Foot orthotics (shoe inserts/foot orthoses)
Inserts reduce plantar pressures at the heel, reducing pain, and swelling which in turn helps recovery.
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is an alternative treatment to injections and is well worth trying before opting for steroid or PRP injections.
Shockwave therapy is an effective treatment that irritates nerve endings and triggers a natural healing process.
The benefits of shockwave therapy can be felt 6 to 8 weeks after treatment, unlike ultrasound-guided injections or Cortisone, which can provide immediate pain relief.
Ultrasound-guided injections for plantar fasciitis
Once all of the above has been tried and tested, and you still have pain, we would recommend ultrasound-guided injections.
Here at the clinic, we can perform this treatment using either PRP or steroids called Cortisone.
PRP ultrasound-guided injections
PRP is a more natural substitute for steroids. Patients begin to experience relief within three to four weeks following treatment.
Steroid ultrasound-guided injections
Steroid injections are known to work fast and can be effective for up to 6 months.
For any of the above treatments or advice on starting your recovery from home, get in touch today. Our team of specialists is on hand to deal with each case with a tailored recovery plan that suits you, your time, and your budget.
