What is Sesamoiditis?

 

Sesamoiditis is a condition that occurs when the small bones (called sesamoids) located under the big toe joint become inflamed. The sesamoids are responsible for helping to balance the weight of the body when standing and walking, and they can become painful and swollen when they are overworked or injured.

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Sesamoiditis is often caused by activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, such as running, dancing, or playing sports, or by wearing shoes that do not provide enough support for the feet. It can also be caused by injuries to the foot, such as a sprain or a fracture.

Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain and swelling in the ball of the foot, difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time, and difficulty wearing certain types of shoes.

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A podiatrist can diagnose sesamoiditis by examining the foot and asking about the patient's symptoms and activities. Treatment may include rest, ice, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend physical therapy or other treatments to help the patient recover from the condition. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the inflamed sesamoids.