Sesamoiditis is a condition which plagues the sesamoid bones at the front of the foot. So named for their resemblance to sesame seeds, they are a set of two bones located under the big toe which stabilize the entire foot.
Sesamoiditis is when you feel a sharp pain, ache, or soreness at the specific area where these bones are, especially when you step off the ground as you walk. Continuing to walk or engage in activity will increase the pain until it becomes an intense throb.
The tendons which run through the sesamoids can be easily aggravated with a rubbing movement causing inflammation and irritation to these structures. Ballerinas, baseball catchers and runners are most likely to develop sesamoiditis according to The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, but you don’t have to be an athlete or dancer to suffer from it. Other causes include:
They’re only two small bones, but sesamoid pain can be chronic and debilitating since those two little bones help to support the entire foot. Prevention is usually the best course of action and requires the victim to make major lifestyle changes in the meantime, such as:
If you are already suffering from sesamoiditis, our first-line treatments for you are mostly conservative in nature. Meaning, they are non-invasive, and generally involve added lifestyle changes on top of what’s recommended above. This includes:
In severe cases, surgery to remove the sesamoid(s) entirely may be needed, especially if they have become fractured or otherwise damaged. Don’t let it get to that point! Book a consultation with us today to figure out a treatment plan for you.
Based in Singapore, 20 years of clinical experience. Practiced in South Africa, Malaysia, and Singapore. Pioneered CAD/CAM custom-made orthotics in S.E Asia.