Treatment for Capsulitis of the Feet

Capsulitis, as it relates to the foot, is an inflammation of the ligaments that cover the toe joints. Pain, often in the ball of the foot, is brought on by excessive bending of the toes, which can overstretch the ligaments.

Rest

• One of the most important ways to treat capsulitis of the foot is to rest it as much as possible. Continuing to do activities that aggravate it will lengthen recovery time.

Medications

• A podiatrist or general practitioner may prescribe oral anti-inflammatory medications to help relieve the pain of capsulitis. Steroid injections may also be given.

Orthotics

• A prescription orthotic or other padding for shoes can help redistribute weight away from the inflamed joint.

Different Shoes

• High heels, shoes with crowded toe boxes and shoes with flimsy soles contribute to capsulitis. A change of shoes is an easy way to speed healing.

Surgery

• Sometimes the anatomy of the foot causes capsulitis, when one of the bones is too long or too low. Surgery can raise or shorten the bone.