I was wondering if anyone with HL or HR out there has ever had a cortisone injection as a treatment? The first time I went to the podiatrist I was put on anti-inflamatories, which have done nothing, or at least seem to have done nothing. I was also told that surgery is likely in my near future, but right now, as a kindergarten teacher, there is no way because I am not willing to take off a lot of time to recover. This is going to have to be a summertime thing and I am in considerable pain when I make certain movements now. The side of my foot is also getting sore because I am putting most of weight there. When I called back I was told this was the next plan of action and I have an appointment for Wednesday afternoon. Is this typical? Has anyone ever had it done? Did it help and if so, for how long? Is it painful? Be honest!

TIA!

Nancy

Yes, some docs do that...though any benefits will most likely be temporary.
What AIs have you tried? Just OTC or have you tried Celebrex or Mobic? The mobic helped me after the surgery until some of the cartilege grew back. Now I just take Aleve and all is well.

I can't recall...have you tried orthotics? They may help for a while. And my time off from work with my cheilectomy was only 3 days. Had it done on Wed and went back to work on Monday. It was no big deal.

Nancy,
I had a few Cortisone shots years ago when I was first diagnosed with HL. It did nothing for me. The shot itself and after effects were more painful than my regular HL pain. Yes, the shot is painful--they have to stick the needle directly into the joint--but thankfully the pain is short-lived and they will generally numb you up a little beforehand either with cold air or a topical cream.

As Titchou said it would only be a temporary solution, but if you need something to tied you over until you can have surgery it's worth giving it a try. It's a very common treatment for early HL.

Thanks for your replies. I really do appreciate the honesty of both of you. I am dreading this, but do hope it will give me relief at least until summer break and I can think about surgery. I am going to ask about that tomorrow too. The anti-inflamatory I was on was called Relafin. I have also tried higher doess of Motrin and Aleve and neither has done much for me if anything. I have a feeling I am not going to be feeling a lot better until I have some type of surgery.

Thanks again to both of you!

Nancy