Capsulitis is a painful condition that affects the front part of the foot and can worsen over time. The smaller toes have three joints each. If the pain comes from the ball of the foot, it might indicate capsulitis. This happens when a ligament in the joint becomes inflamed. Capsulitis mainly affects the second toe, sometimes extending to the third toe. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness in the front part of the foot. Walking and wearing shoes can be uncomfortable. Neglecting capsulitis can lead to additional problems like calluses and curled toes. It can even cause one toe to cross over another. Capsulitis can result from injuries, poor foot mechanics, ill-fitting shoes, or conditions like arthritis. Some individuals are more susceptible due to their foot structure. Treatment includes resting, wearing shoe inserts, exercising the foot, avoiding tight, thin-soled shoes, and elevating the foot. If you have persisting toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.