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Capsulitis Causes and Treatment

Have you ever experienced the discomfort of having a rock stuck in your shoe? You might have felt a repeated pinch or poke in the same part of your foot, and the only way to make it go away was to remove your shoe and shake out the rock. Well, capsulitis is a condition that feels very similar (except the fix is not as quick!) Capsulitis occurs when the ligament that connects the toe to the foot becomes inflamed from over-stretching, and it most commonly affects the second toe.

If you are suffering from capsulitis, you might feel stiffness in the ball of the foot, especially underneath the affected joint. As is the case with most inflammatory conditions, you might experience swelling, tenderness, and lack of mobility around the affected joint. The aches and pains associated with capsulitis may make it difficult to walk.

What are the causes of capsulitis?

Capsulitis is typically the result of putting too much pressure on the forefoot, which can come from:

  • Sudden trauma or chronic stress on the toes
  • High-heeled shoes or other footwear that is ill-fitting and unsupportive
  • Activities that force the toes to bend repeatedly, like climbing a ladder, gardening, or working on the ground
  • Medical conditions like arthritis that make the foot prone to inflammation

How is capsulitis treated?

Capsulitis can be reversed before more serious surgical interventions are required if it is caught in its earliest stages.

  • Wear properly fitting footwear or orthotics to relieve the pressure on the affected area
  • For a short period of time, refrain from doing the activity that causes pain or take frequent breaks if it is necessary for you to do the activity
  • Apply ice to the joint
  • See your doctor for anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections

As the temperatures begin to rise in Onondaga County, you should not let foot or ankle discomfort keep you off your feet. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico welcomes patients of all ages from Central New York into Syracuse Podiatry. At our Fayetteville office, Dr. D’Amico can treat heel pain, ulcers, ingrown toenails, and more. Have any questions? Want to schedule an appointment? Contact us or call us today at (315) 446-3668!

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