Medical professionals diagnose capsulitis by examining the patient and the affected area. Adhesive capsulitis is diagnosed by taking a look at physical characteristics which include a thickening of the synovial capsule, adhesions within the subacromial or subdeltoid bursa, adhesions to the biceps tendon, and/or obliteration of the axillary fold secondary to adhesions.
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis because the symptoms can be similar to other conditions requiring different treatment plans. For capsulitis of the second toe, a doctor will examine the foot and ankle to see where the pain is and if it ticks the capsulitis boxes.
The exam should also reveal potential causes and test the stability of the joint. X-rays are usually ordered, and other imaging studies are sometimes needed.