Choosing the Right Foot and Ankle Treatment: Understanding the Difference between Cortisone Injections and Prolotherapy

Information  •  Wed 1 Feb 2023

Foot and ankle problems can cause pain and affect our ability to perform daily activities, which is why it's essential to seek proper treatment. Suppose conservative treatment options have not fully resolved a chronic condition. In that case, injection therapy may be discussed as a treatment option. The most common treatments for these conditions are cortisone injections and prolotherapy injections. While both treatments can be effective, it's essential to understand their differences to determine which is best for each patient.

Cortisone is a type of steroid hormone that is naturally produced by the body, and when it is injected directly into the affected area, it can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Cortisone injections are typically used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and other inflammatory conditions.

One of the benefits of cortisone injections is that they work quickly. Within a few days of receiving the injection, patients can experience significant relief from their symptoms. However, cortisone injections are not a permanent solution. Pain and swelling may return once the effects have worn off. Additionally, cortisone injections can have side effects, such as skin thinning, joint damage, and decreased bone density.

Prolotherapy, on the other hand, is a regenerative injection therapy that stimulates the body's natural healing process. It is typically used to treat chronic pain and instability of joints. During a prolotherapy session, a solution is injected into the affected area, which triggers the body to produce new tissue and strengthen the surrounding area.

One of the benefits of prolotherapy is that it is a long-term solution to foot and ankle problems. Unlike cortisone injections, which only provide temporary relief, prolotherapy can help to resolve the underlying issue permanently. In addition, prolotherapy is a safer alternative to cortisone injections, as it does not carry the same risk of side effects.

Another critical difference between cortisone injections and prolotherapy is the type of pain they treat. Cortisone injections are most effective for acute pain, while prolotherapy is more effective for chronic pain. If a patient has suffered foot or ankle pain for several months, prolotherapy may be the better option.

In conclusion, cortisone injections and prolotherapy can effectively treat foot and ankle pain. Still, it's essential to understand their differences to determine which is best for each patient. While cortisone injections can provide quick relief for acute pain, prolotherapy is a safer, long-term solution for chronic pain. As a Sports Podiatrist, I work closely with my patients to determine the best treatment for their conditions.