Often seen in women who wear high heels, the joint of the second or third toe can become very painful, sometimes swollen. By changing the shoes, taking over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine, sometimes the pain will resolve. But when it does not go away, it is important to come to the office.
Other diagnoses must be ruled out. We use dianostic ultrasound and x-rays to assess if there is serious damage to the joint. When there is capsulitis of the second toe joint, there is a possibility of a tear in the joint that can lead to a hammer toe deformity or a drifting of the toe to the side.
Our treatments will include speical padding and taping to take the pressure off the foot. We will show you what to do at home. Physicial therapy including ultrasound treatments may be prescribed. For some people, it is necessary to have an injection of an anti inflammatory medication gtiven right where it is needed. Before treatment, careful evaluation of the joint and capsule is performed.
