Foot capsulitis is a type of metatarsalgia caused by inflammation of the joint capsule of the metatarsal bones. Though more common in shoulder, knee, or elbow joints, capsulitis can also affect the foot. This article explains the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of foot capsulitis.
Symptoms of foot capsulitis
Capsulitis in the foot presents symptoms as severe as those in the shoulder. Common symptoms of foot capsulitis include:
- Burning sensation under the toes in the forefoot;
- Numbness in the forefoot;
- Feeling of a lump beneath the forefoot;
- Difficulty putting weight on the front half of the foot;
- Pain in the toes (phalanges);
If untreated, these symptoms can lead to prolonged recovery times, foot deformities such as hammertoes, and changes in posture causing joint pain in feet, ankles, legs, knees, hips, and lower back.
What causes a foot capsulitis?
Foot capsulitis results from excessive blood flow and scar tissue formation in the joint capsule’s fibrous membrane. Several factors can contribute to this metatarsalgia form, including:
- Prolonged standing;
- Pre-existing foot arch deformities like cavus foot or flatfoot;
- Excessive physical stress on feet;
- Improper footwear;
- Foot or toe deformities such as bunions;
- Long walks;
- Complications from diabetes (diabetic foot);
- Prolonged immobilization post-surgery or cast;
- Obesity.
Given the many causes, early consultation with a doctor or podiatrist is essential to diagnose and address foot capsulitis effectively.
Preventing foot capsulitis
Discomfort and motor restrictions caused by foot capsulitis can be largely prevented with proper measures, which may delay its onset:
- Wear shoes tailored to the shape of your feet;
- Avoid standing still for long periods;
- Choose well-cushioned footwear especially in the forefoot and avoid high heels;
- Maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI);
- Limit running workouts in duration and intensity;
- Practice effective training methods;
- Prefer low-impact sports like swimming or cycling to reduce foot strain.
Despite precautions, early detection is not always possible; see a podiatrist if you experience significant or unusual foot discomfort.
Treatment for foot capsulitis in a podiatry clinic
Accurate diagnosis precedes treatment. A podiatrist performs tests to understand symptoms and verify the ailment:
- Biomechanical exam to locate issues and assess foot and ankle mobility;
- Digital x-ray to view bones and joints, detecting anomalies;
- Ultrasound scan to identify soft tissue damage in tendons, ligaments, and joint capsule.
After diagnosis, treatments may include:
- Custom foot orthoses to correct imbalances and posture;
- Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections;
- Anti-inflammatory medications;
- Manual foot therapy to restore mobility;
- Therapeutic laser treatment;
- ShockWave therapy;
- Therapeutic taping;
- Ultrasound therapy;
- Removal of corns and calluses if necessary;
- Splints or relief shoes;
- Orthopedic shoes;
- Establishing a stretching routine.
The podiatrist aims to provide effective and minimally invasive treatments. Surgery may be considered if conservative methods fail.
PiedReseau – Learn more
To learn more about foot capsulitis and other foot conditions, explore additional articles from PiedReseau.