Image Intensifier-Guided Injection of Corticosteroid and Local Anesthetic Agent for the Treatment of Recalcitrant Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of plantar heel pain. The condition is potentially self-limiting and can respond to conservative treatment, but patients may opt for surgery if the treatments fail. Surgical intervention is associated with potential complications. This study set out to explore the efficacy of the specific nonsurgical intervention offered to treatment-resistant cases in a local clinical setting. The technique involves image intensifier—guided injection of corticosteroid and local anesthetic agents under general anesthesia. Nineteen patients with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis of over 12 months’ duration received injections. A simple follow-up questionnaire was given to patients after the procedure that focused on their subjective opinion of any change in their pain. They were also asked if the injection had solved their problems with heel pain. The improvements that the patients reported were found to be statistically significant (P = .012).