✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Plantar Fasciitis Injection Recovery Time:
How Long Does It Take?

A plantar fasciitis injection can be very effective for long-lasting pain relief, especially for patients who have struggled with persistent heel pain despite trying home remedies or physical therapy. While it may cause some mild soreness, swelling, or tenderness for 1–2 days, most patients notice a significant improvement in their ability to walk and stay active. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, we provide expert evaluation and customized treatment plans to ensure your recovery is safe and effective. If heel pain is keeping you from enjoying your daily life, our podiatrists can help you determine if a plantar fasciitis injection is the right solution. Call today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward pain-free living. Consult Us Today

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Plantar fasciitis injection recovery time overview?

• This usually feels great for up to 12 hours if combined with marcaine and lidocaine.
• It can then cause a decrease of inflammation over time
• If there is no anesthetic associated with this, then it can ache for one to two days until some of the post injection bruising starts to disappear.

What are cortisone injections?

• Cortisone injections contain a synthetic version of a natural substance made in our body. This is called cortisol.
• These shots are given as a shot directly into the injured plantar fascia ligament, or into the side of the heel.
• Unlike natural cortisone, synthetic cortisone is not injected into the blood stream. It is injected into the surrounding fatty tissue and allowed to calm down the inflammation over a longer period of time.
• Steroids like Cortisone do show some risk factors, but overall they are very low and documented to be well under 5%.

What does a cortisone injection do?

• What does a cortisone injection do?
• It is a strong anti- inflammation hormone. It is very effective at making pain and swelling go away.
• In the case of the plantar fasciitis and heel pain, it can bring the ligament swelling and pain down. It can make it go away in some cases.
• There is some debate whether all types of plantar fasciitis are inflammation.
• New studies do show that steroids are not very effective when the plantar fasciitis is a long-term process such as for 2 to 3 months or more.
• At this point the plantar fascia is not suffering from inflammation, it is suffering from destruction and scar tissue.
• As cortisone seeks to decrease inflammation, it will not perform any inflammation relief where there is none (Such as chronic scar tissue and fasciosis.)

Plantar Fasciitis Injection Recovery Time:

• If lidocaine and marcaine mixture: it gets numb almost immediately.
• The corticosteroid effect can then benefit you for over 2-3 weeks in certain circumstances.
• The injections are only effective if combined as part of a treatment plan such as good supportive shoes and orthotics to prevent the further creation of plantar fascia injury.
• There is sometimes post injection pain at the site of injection.
• If freeze spray is used at the same time, the injection feels much less painful.

Pros and Cons of Cortisone Injections for Plantar Fasciitis:

Plantar Fasciitis Injection Pros:

• Minimal risk compared to surgery.
• Quick and effective.
• If combined with anesthetic and freeze spray, minimal pain with quick overall improvement.
• Good pain relief.
• It can be worth trying once, as the side effects can be very minimal.

Plantar Fasciitis Injection Cons:

• Not always a permanent solution.
• Not a good solution by itself, only to jump start biomechanical correction.
• Too many injections can lead to fat pad atrophy.
• If you have ever had at prior injection with problems, it is probably not worth getting one.
• If you have a chronic case of plantar fasciitis with prior in effect of injections, it is probably not worth getting anymore.
• It is possible to develop fat pad atrophy.

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Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills?

At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, we understand that plantar fasciitis recovery time varies for every patient, but with the right care and treatment, lasting relief is possible. Our team provides advanced therapies, personalized recovery plans, and expert guidance to help you heal faster and get back on your feet. If heel pain is slowing you down, schedule a consultation today and let us help you take the next step toward a pain-free life.

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Plantar Fasciitis Injection Recovery Time – Common Questions Answered

How long does it take to recover after a plantar fasciitis injection?

Most patients start feeling relief within a few days, while full recovery may take 1–2 weeks depending on activity levels and the severity of the condition.

Can I walk right after a plantar fasciitis injection?

Yes, but light walking is recommended for the first 24–48 hours to allow the foot to heal. Avoid high-impact activities during this period.

Is it normal to feel pain after the injection?

Mild soreness or bruising is common for 1–2 days. Ice and rest can help reduce discomfort.

How effective are plantar fasciitis injections for pain relief?

Injections can provide significant relief, often lasting for months, especially when combined with supportive treatments like orthotics and stretching.

What should I avoid after a plantar fasciitis injection?

Avoid running, jumping, or prolonged standing for a few days. This helps maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.

When should I follow up with my podiatrist after the injection?

A follow-up is usually scheduled within 2–3 weeks to assess recovery and determine if additional treatment is needed.

Are there lifestyle changes that reduce bunion risk?

Yes. Choosing proper footwear, avoiding high heels, stretching your feet, and using orthotics are all effective lifestyle changes to protect your feet from bunions.

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Related Treatment Guides

• Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
• Custom 3D Orthotics
• EPAT Shockwave Therapy

Medical References & Sources

• American Podiatric Medical Association — Plantar Fasciitis
• PubMed Research — Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Studies
• American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Heel Pain

References

1. David JA, et al. Injected corticosteroids for treating plantar heel pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;(6):CD009348.
2. Acevedo JI, Beskin JL. Complications of plantar fascia rupture associated with corticosteroid injection. Foot Ankle Int. 1998;19(2):91-97.
3. Buchanan BK, Kushner D. Plantar Fasciitis. StatPearls Publishing; 2024.