- When to inject for spur
- Does heel infiltration cure the spur?
- How long the effect lasts
- When not to infiltrate
Infiltration for spurs in the calcaneus consists of the injection of corticosteroids directly into the site of pain, to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. This type of injection can be done by the doctor or a nurse at the health center, but an orthopedist should always be prescribed.
This treatment works because the pain and discomfort, caused by the heel spur, arise, mostly, due to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissues, present under the foot, which goes from the heel to the toes. By using a corticosteroid directly on the site, the inflammation of the fascia is reduced and the pain you feel is also relieved quickly.
When to inject for spur
The first form of treatment for heel spurs usually consists of daily stretching of the foot, using orthopedic insoles or taking analgesic or anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Aspirin or Naproxen. Know all the treatment options.
However, if these forms of treatment do not work, or if the problem worsens over time, the orthopedist can advise the injection of corticosteroids in the site.
If after a few weeks or months, the injections also fail to have the expected effect, it may be necessary to resort to surgery to remove the spur and stop inflaming the plantar fascia.
Does heel infiltration cure the spur?
The only way to completely heal the heel spur is to have surgery to remove the excess bone that is growing under the heel.
Injections, or infiltrations, only help to relieve symptoms by reducing inflammation of the plantar fascia. However, when the effect wears off, the pain may return, as the spur continues to cause inflammation.
How long the effect lasts
The effect of corticosteroid infiltration in the heel usually lasts between 3 to 6 months, however, this period varies according to the severity of the problem and the way in which each person's body reacts. However, to ensure the effect for a longer time, it is important to maintain some precautions such as not doing high-impact activities, such as running or skipping rope, using orthopedic insoles and doing frequent foot stretches.
See also 4 home remedies that you can use to prolong the effect.
When not to infiltrate
The injection of corticosteroids in the heel can be done in almost all cases, however, it is advisable to avoid this type of treatment if the pain improves with other less invasive forms of treatment or if there is allergy to any corticosteroids, for example.
