If you don't know what Capsulitis is, it's a painful condition of joints. I apparently set it off when I bought sneakers that were a bit too narrow and wore them for a month before getting a wider pair. I wound up getting an MRI to confirm it.I've had the pain for 3 months... and couldn't even go to comic-con in superhero boots this year. :( - Rob
WHAT IS IT? Capsulitis is inflammation of a joint capsule. Ligaments surround your joints, including your toe joints, and help form a capsule. Joint capsules help your joints to function properly. Capsulitis is a common problem in certain parts of your body, especially your shoulders and toes.
 |
| Rob's new shoe inserts w/side pads |
HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOU? The pain in the joint of the 2nd and 3rd toes goes all the way to the base of the toes, and along the muscle that is in the front of your foot (called the Plantar Plate). Feels like stepping on a sharp rock under the front center part of your foot - and makes every step hurt!
OTHER CAUSES - It is generally believed that capsulitis of the second toe is a result of abnormal foot mechanics, where the ball of the foot beneath the toe joint takes an excessive amount of weightbearing pressure.
TREATMENT - Don't go barefoot! It puts extra pressure on that area. WHAT TO DO - Instead in shoes, sneakers and slippers put in a "plantar fascititis support" (you can get them at any drugstore), and put two pads under the left and right front part of it. That way, the middle part, where your toes, inflammation and pain is, are not touching the ground.
YEAH, AN AGE THING - Capsulitis is most common in men and women ages 30-60 years of age.
OTHER TREATMENTS
( From https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/capsulitis-of-the-second-toe )
The foot and ankle surgeon may select one or more of the following options for early treatment of capsulitis:
- Rest and ice. Staying off the foot and applying ice packs help reduce the swelling and pain. Apply an ice pack, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.
- Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may help relieve the pain and inflammation.
- Taping/splinting. It may be necessary to tape the toe so that it will stay in the correct position. This helps relieve the pain and prevent further drifting of the toe.
- Stretching. Stretching exercises may be prescribed for patients who have tight calf muscles.
- Shoe modifications. Supportive shoes with stiff soles are recommended because they control the motion and lessen the amount of pressure on the ball of the foot.
- Orthotic devices. Custom shoe inserts are often very beneficial. These include arch supports or a metatarsal pad that distributes the weight away from the joint.
