Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injections in the Foot and Ankle: A Prospective 1-year Follow-up Investigation

Most evidence for the efficacy of intra-articular corticosteroids is confined to the knee, with few studies considering the joints of the foot and ankle. The aim of this study was to identify the long-term efficacy of corticosteroid injection in foot and ankle joints. All patients undergoing intra-articular corticosteroid injections into foot and ankle joints over a 10-month period were recruited into the study. Patients were asked to complete a foot-related quality of life questionnaire, namely the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, immediately before intra-articular injection and at set points up to 1-year afterward. Eighteen patients, comprising 36 foot and ankle joints, were recruited into the study. There was a statistically significant score improvement following corticosteroid injection up to and including 6 months postinjection. No independent clinical factors were identified that could predict a better postinjection response. The magnitude of the response at 2 months was found to predict a sustained response at 9 months and 1 year. Intra-articular corticosteroids improved symptom scores in patients with foot and ankle arthritis. The duration of this response was varied and patient factors affecting the response remain unclear. Response to the injection at 2 months can be used to predict the duration of beneficial effects up to at least 1 year. Level of Clinical Evidence: 2