Capsulitis is an inflammatory condition that can occur at any joint but most frequently affects the forefoot. Although systemic disease can be involved, most often too much pressure on that part of the foot is the cause. The most common site is on the beneath the 2nd metatarsal head (2nd toe). The metatarsal bones carry our body weight. The longer the metatarsal bone, the more weight it bears without help from the other metatarsals. Over time, the soft tissue that surrounds the joint (called the capsule) becomes painful.
A capsular tear can result from progressive degeneration, trauma or secondary to arthritic process. Swelling is more likely to be present and pain is present on the plantar (bottom) and dorsum (top) of the joint. Crossover toes are almost always present also.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Pressure metatarsalgia
Symptoms:
- Pain in forefoot that can localized to the plantar aspect of one of the metatarsal joints (Capsulitis) and on both plantar and dorsum if a capsular tear
- Symptoms most noticeable on while barefoot on hard surfaces and/or in thin soled shoes
Signs to look for:
- Pain in forefoot that can localized to the plantar aspect of one of the metatarsal joints (Capsulitis) and on both plantar and dorsum if a capsular tear
- Symptoms most noticeable on while barefoot on hard surfaces and/or in thin soled shoes
- Callus may be present at affected area
- Crossover toes (if a capsular tear)
Possible Causes:
- Genetic
- Results of synovitis, as in arthritis
- Injury
Goals:
- Medical treatment for systemic disease
- Take pressure off the affected joint
- Create optimal foot motion
- Improve gait
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Shoes with stretchable uppers where crossover toes are sensitive
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot except on a minimal basis
Other:
- Obtain medical diagnosis
- Toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe caps, toe crests, etc.
Activities:
- Alternate non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming, with weight bearing exercising such as walking
- Regular callus filing with pumice device (leaving cutting of calluses to a physician only)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Sportspodiatry.com.uk Text: Myfootshop.com, I. Alexander, The Foot: Exam & Diagnosis