What is Sesamoiditis?

7 July 2015

Sesamoiditis is the inflammation of the sesamoid bones of your foot, found under the big toe joint.

Desperately Seeking Sesamoids

As intimidating as Sesamoiditis may sound, it is essentially an ache in the joint of your big toe named after the two bones that are affected. Sesamoids are unique in the body because they not connected to other bones at the joints, but held by tendons or embedded in the muscle. A good example of this is the kneecap (patella), which is the body’s largest sesamoid.

Acting like a pulley to the two tendons that connect to it, the sesamoids help the big toe function properly. When you ‘push off’ while running or walking, it is the sesamoids which provide leverage for your big toe. Small but powerful, you’ll definitely notice when the little-known little bones are no longer pulling their weight.

Suffering Sesamoiditis

As with any foot condition caused by over-worked feet, people who spend more time on their feet either for work, sports or high-impact activities are more likely to suffer from Sesamoiditis. Those who have a tendency to run on the ball of their foot might also find their Sesamoids are more likely to suffer.

People with high arches or Flat Feet are also vulnerable to the condition as the balance and weight distribution on the sesamoid area is less efficient that for those with normal arches.

Signs of Sesamoiditis

Over-worked Sesamoids typically do not start to seriously hurt right away, but begin showing symptoms as a mild ache, gradually worsening and can become an intense, more persistent throbbing. Other symptoms include:

•   Intermittent pain in the ball of the foot and joint of the toe gradually becoming more intense
•   Swelling and bruising may occur around the injured area
•   Decreased functionality of your big toe

Soothing your Sesamoids

Sesamoiditis is typically treated with rest and relaxation and a hiatus from any intense activities such as sports or running. Surgery tends to be offered only in extreme cases, and generally a dose of foot TLC, sensible footwear and a good insole to support your recovery is enough to get you back on your feet. You might also like to try applying ice packs or taping the toe into a slightly flexed position to relieve pressure on the joint.

Insoles for Insolent Sesamoids

A good insole is crucial in helping your foot recover properly, as well as wearing it in suitable, well-fitting shoes – high heels and fashionable tight-fitting shoes being a definite no-no for sore sesamoids.

Insoles for Sesamoiditis should feature:

•   Cushioning and padding to relieve the inflamed area
•   Support to the arch as it tapers down to the toe joint
•   Shock absorption to lessen pressure on the foot as a whole

Visit the Shoe Insoles website for more Insoles for Sesamoiditis.