Caps

Capsulitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the capsule of a joint. It is a common condition that can affect any joint in the body but is most frequently seen in the shoulder, known as adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder, and in the feet, particularly at the base of the toes, known as Capsulitis of the Second Toe. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and a significant reduction in the range of motion of the affected joint, leading to difficulty in performing daily activities.

Causes

Capsulitis is often caused by repetitive overuse or injury to the joint. In the shoulder, it may follow a period of immobility, leading to the thickening and tightening of the joint capsule. In the feet, it is frequently associated with improper foot mechanics, such as overpronation, which places excessive stress on the joint capsule of the toes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of capsulitis include:

• Persistent pain in the affected joint
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
• A feeling of stiffness or tightness in the joint area
• Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to move the affected joint

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of capsulitis typically involves a physical examination and review of the patient's medical history. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to rule out other conditions and to confirm the presence of inflammation in the joint capsule.

Treatment

Treatment for capsulitis aims to reduce pain and inflammation and to restore the normal range of motion to the affected joint. Options may include:

• Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the joint
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroid injections to directly reduce inflammation in the joint capsule
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight joint capsule

Prevention

Preventive measures for capsulitis focus on maintaining good joint health and avoiding injury. These may include:

• Regular exercise to keep the joints flexible and strong
• Proper footwear to support the feet and reduce stress on the toe joints
• Avoiding repetitive motions that put excessive stress on the joints

See Also

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis