Capsulitis & Synovitis (Joint Pain)

Trying to walk on or move a tender and swollen joint can be excruciating. Unfortunately, when the joint is in our feet, we often have no choice but to bear the pain if we want to keep moving, working, and meeting the hectic demands life places on us. 

Two causes of joint swelling and pain are called capsulitis and synovitis. Don’t let the names put you off – these are simple terms meeting:

Capsulitis – inflammation of the capsule surrounding one of your joints

Synovitis – inflammation of the synovium – a tissue that lines the inside of the joint capsule

While these are two different conditions medically, it’s often impossible to tell them apart without imaging studies because they share the same symptoms, causes problems – and importantly require the same treatment. Hence, we’re talking about them interchangeably and collectively.

As podiatrists, we often see capsulitis and synovitis in the forefoot, especially at the ball of the foot. But you can develop these problems at any joint in the body.

Why has my joint become sore and swollen?

Joint pain arising from capsulitis or synovitis in the foot is often caused by overloading the joint. This means that you place more pressure on the joint than it can handle, so damage occurs, and your pain starts. Your overloading may arise from anything from wearing high-heeled or unsupportive footwear, to going too hard too fast during physical activity, to abnormalities with your foot structure or function – and much more.

Each person is unique in the stresses that are placed on their feet and joints. This is where an assessment that uncovers exactly what’s happening with your feet is vital for effective treatment.

You may also suffer from capsulitis or synovitis if you directly damage the joint – like when a toe is forcefully thrust upwards during sports, or if you drop something heavy of your foot or stub a toe.

Signs and symptoms

Capsulitis and synovitis are usually accompanied by joint pain, swelling, warmth and redness. You might feel some weakness in the area, and walking can quickly become painful – like you’re walking on a pebble.

As these symptoms are similar to the symptoms experienced in a number of other foot and leg problems, it’s important to not attempt to self-diagnose and see your podiatrist. Otherwise, you may miss an important diagnosis that requires a different form of treatment – or urgent care.

Treating capsulitis & synovitis

Treating capsulitis and synovitis involves removing the excess pressure and forces that caused the joint to become injured in the first place. Hence, it’s very important to understand all of the causes – otherwise you may spend weeks not getting the results you want due to an incomplete picture of the problem.

Your treatment may include switching to wearing a more supportive pair of shoes, offloading the joint using custom foot orthotics, accelerating joint healing and repair using foot mobilisation therapy, temporarily using specially-made pads or strapping, addressing muscle imbalances (weak/tight muscles), and more. 

At Masterton Foot Clinic, every patient receives a carefully designed treatment plan that is unique to their individual circumstances. We stay with you every step of the way to help you get back to pain-free living.

FAQs

What are the treatment options for capsulitis and synovitis?

Treatment options for capsulitis and synovitis can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Aside from the treatments we’ve listed above, at-home care that can help you manage your symptoms includes rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), activity modification, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation management.

Can capsulitis and synovitis be treated without surgery?

Yes, in most cases, capsulitis and synovitis can be effectively treated without surgery.

How long does it take for capsulitis and synovitis to heal?

The healing time for capsulitis and synovitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, a person’s overall health, and the chosen treatment approach. With appropriate treatment and adherence to recommended protocols, symptoms may begin to improve within a few weeks to months. However, complete healing may take several months or longer.

Can capsulitis and synovitis recur after treatment?

While it is possible for capsulitis and synovitis to recur after treatment, proper management and preventive measures can help minimise the risk. Following recommended activity modifications, using supportive footwear, practicing good foot hygiene, maintaining a healthy weight, and regularly monitoring for any signs of recurrence are essential in preventing future episodes.

Can capsulitis and synovitis lead to other foot conditions or complications?

If left untreated or not properly managed, capsulitis and synovitis can potentially lead to other foot conditions or complications. These may include chronic pain, joint instability, joint deformities, and alterations in gait mechanics. Seeking early care and adhering to the treatment plan prescribed by your podiatrist can help reduce the risk of such complications.

Can capsulitis and synovitis be prevented?

While it may not be possible to prevent capsulitis and synovitis entirely, preventive measures can help reduce the risk. This includes wearing good footwear that provides adequate support and cushioning, practising good foot hygiene, avoiding excessive or repetitive stress on the foot joints, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity to strengthen the muscles supporting the foot.

Can corticosteroid injections help with the treatment of capsulitis and synovitis?

Corticosteroid injections can be used to help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief in cases of capsulitis and synovitis – although this is usually not a first-line treatment, as it only masks the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause of your pain and any damage. These injections are typically administered directly into the affected joint or surrounding tissues. However, it’s important to note that repeated or excessive use of corticosteroid injections may have potential side effects, and their use should be considered very carefully.