Capsulitis involves chronic inflammation of the ligaments around the base of the toe joint which composes of the metatarsal phalangeal joint capsule. Capsulitis can occur in any toe joints but most commonly affects the second toe. When the chronic inflammation is not treated, the ligaments over time can weaken causing dislocation of the toe. This is why capsulitis can also sometimes be referred to as predisolcation syndrome.

Capsulitis is a progressive painful condition that gradually worsens if left untreated so early diagnosis and treatment are important. The initial symptoms are swelling and pain at the ball of the foot near the second toe joint, and pain walking barefoot. In later stages of capsulitis, the joint ligaments weaken, leading to failure of the joint to stabilize the toe. The end stage of capsulitis is the toe crossing over as the unstable toe drifts towards the big toe.

Capsulitis is a very common condition that can occur at any age and the following are various conservative treatments for it:

• Rest and ice
• NSAIDs relieve the pain and inflammation
• Taping for the toe to stay in the correct position
• Physical therapy
• Shoe modification and orthotics

Once the second toe begins drifting to the big toe, it will unfortunately not return to the normal correct position. When this happens, your podiatrist may then advise surgical options with you. Some surgeries your podiatrist may discuss with you are to surgically repair a plantar plate tear or a synovectomy to clean out any inflamed synovial tissue around the joint. So call your podiatrist today to prevent or to correct your second toe crossing over the big toe!

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office