Sesamoiditis
What is it?
Sesamoiditis occurs when the tendons of the ball of the foot become inflamed.
When the tendons load weight onto the ball of the foot, the two pea-sized sesamoid bones provide leverage.
Running, dancing, and walking in high heels can cause inflammation and pain in these tendons and bones as a result of excessive weight transfer to the ball of the foot.
Signs & symptoms
Sesamoiditis from overuse develops gradually. A dull ache under the big toe may develop until it becomes difficult to walk. Symptoms can include:
Pain under the big toe.
Difficulty bending the big toe.
Difficulty bearing weight or walking.
Swelling.
Redness.
Bruising.
Diagnosis
The first thing your doctor will do is ask you how the pain began, followed by a physical examination of your foot. To test your mobility, they will move your big toe in different directions and check for tenderness. They might use a technique called the Passive Axial Compression test that manipulates the joint in a similar way to walking in order to reproduce the symptoms of sesamoiditis. Imaging tests may also be used to confirm or rule out certain related conditions.
Treatment
Rest.
Restriction.
Ice and elevation.
Physical therapy.
pain killers
Steroid Injection.
Surgery. When chronic sesamoiditis doesn't resolve over time, surgery may be a last resort. Removing one of the sesamoid bones can bring relief.
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
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