Corticosteroid (steroid) drugs treat pain, inflammation, certain types of arthritis and many other medical conditions. They can be used in an injectable form and can helpful in treating many foot problems. This leaflet explains their use.
Treatment protocol
The steroids (methylprednisalone) are given via injection with local anaesthetic (to make the injection more comfortable). This local anaesthetic will make the area numb for a few hours. You will be reviewed 4 to 6 weeks later and the injection repeated if necessary, to a maximum of three doses per year.
Steroid therapy may not be suitable for you if you have:
- Heat failure.
- The presence of local systemic infection.
- A viral infection or TB.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- A known hypersensitivity to any of the constitution agents.
How quickly will the injection work?
This varies between patients, most patients report an improvement within 24-48 hours. It can be a few days before patients receive little or any benefit from their use.
How long will the effects last?
Improvements can last for weeks or months and in some cases can last longer.
After the injection?
You should rest for a few days and avoid activities which exaggerate your symptoms.
Side effects?
- “A steroid flare” This is pain, redness and swelling around the injection site and happens to 10% of patients. The pain can be quite severe but usually settles within 2-3 days. Take over the counter paracetamol if required.
- Facial flushing. This may occur 24-48 hours after the injection, but will settle within a few days.
- Fat wasting. A small amount of sub-cutaneous fat may be lost leaving a depression in the skin at the injection site.
- Infection. As the skin barrier if broken, an infection is a risk but is unlikely.
- Pigmentation changes. Skin colour at the site of the injection may change.
If you experience any problems which cause you undue concern, please Tel: 020 8778 9050
