Capsulitis / Synovitis

Capsulitis of the toe is an inflammation of the capsule surrounding the joints of the toes, particularly
affecting the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints. This condition is commonly seen in the second toe but can
occur in other toes as well.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of capsulitis include:

What causes it?

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors may contribute to the development of
Morton’s neuroma, including:

Repetitive Stress

Activities that put repeated strain on the toe joints, such as running or jumping.

Improper Footwear

Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that compress the toes can contribute to the condition.

Foot Structure

Abnormalities in foot alignment, such as high arches or flat feet, can increase stress on the toe joints.

Injury

Trauma or direct injury to the toe can lead to inflammation.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

How is it Treated?

Treatment options may include:

Rest

Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.

Ice

Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain.

Footwear Modifications

Wearing supportive shoes with adequate toe space.

Orthotics

Custom insoles to relieve pressure on the affected area.

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical Therapy

Exercises to improve strength and flexibility.

With proper treatment, many people experience relief from symptoms within weeks. If conservative measures fail, further
evaluation by a healthcare professional may be necessary for more advanced treatment options.

Recovery

Many people experience significant relief with conservative treatments, but recovery time varies depending on the
treatment approach. If you suspect you have Morton’s neuroma, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for an
accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about capsulitis at the toes:

What is capsulitis of the toe?

Capsulitis is the inflammation of the joint capsule surrounding the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints of the toes, often causing pain and discomfort.
Common causes include repetitive stress from activities like running, improper footwear (tight or ill-fitting shoes), foot structure abnormalities, and injuries to the toe.
Symptoms typically include sharp or aching pain in the ball of the foot, localised swelling, tenderness around the affected joint, and stiffness in the toe.
Diagnosis usually involves a medical history review, a physical examination to assess symptoms, and imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs) to rule out other conditions.
Treatment options may include rest, ice application, modifying footwear, using orthotics, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and physical therapy.
Preventive measures include wearing well-fitted shoes, avoiding high-impact activities without proper preparation, and addressing any foot structure issues with orthotics.
Surgery is rarely needed. Most cases respond well to conservative treatment. Surgery may be considered only if symptoms persist despite appropriate management.
Recovery time can vary, but many people experience improvement within weeks with proper treatment.
If untreated, chronic capsulitis can lead to persistent pain or altered foot mechanics. However, most individuals recover fully with appropriate treatment.
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent toe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking that doesn’t improve with rest and home care.

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