3 Ways to Treat Capsulitis

Capsulitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the ball of the foot in an area encapsulated by bones, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. It is caused by stress and pressure from injury or disease that radiates pain and discomfort.  Other conditions such as neuromas, have similar symptoms but are caused by nerve growths. See your foot doctor for the precise diagnosis and proper treatment protocols. 

Conservative treatments for the condition work most effectively when it is diagnosed early in the process.

3 conservative treatments for capsulitis that are effective in the early stages include the following:

1. Rest, icing, elevation, and toe taping—As with any foot or ankle injury, it’s important to rest the affected foot to help determine the severity of the problem. One treatment to minimize toe movement involves taping the middle toes together. This helps reduce stress and pressure so healing can take place.

2. Proper placement of custom orthotic inserts—Custom orthotic shoe inserts can be properly formed and placed by your podiatrist to isolate the ball of the foot to reduce and eliminate sources of stress and pressure so that proper healing can occur.

3. Steroid injections—Corticosteroid injections into the ball of the foot can help reduce inflammation and pain, but they may have side effects that you should discuss with your doctor.

If left untreated, the inflammation caused by this condition can lead to a weakening of surrounding ligaments that can cause dislocation of the toe.  Toes that have succumbed to dislocation will probably require surgery to repair. 

If you are experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, your foot doctor can determine the precise cause. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX (county of Dallas), is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries, and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.