Sesamoiditis
Did you know that you have two little bones that sit under your big toe joint? You probably do if you have sesamoiditis! This condition occurs due to increased pressure on the sesamoids and it becomes painful when there inflammation around the bones and the capsule of the big toe joint (1st MPJ).
So What Do Sesamoids Do?
Sesamoids are different to other bones as they do not connect to other bones via joints - they are connected to other bones by tendons, or are embedded into muscles in the body. The largest sesamoid bone in the body is the patella, and there are many other smaller sesamoids in your body.
The sesamoid bones in the foot support the body's weight, and allow tendons to exert greater forces on the body, and also help to lift the bones of the big toe.
Symptoms of Sesamoiditis
The symptoms of sesamoiditis will build up gradually over time. Usually, you will begin to feel increased pressure or discomfort under the big toe joint, and this will gradually increase with increased activity or increased pressure. Some shoes will increase your pressure - for example high heels or stiff soled shoes. Other observations may include;
- bruising under the big toe joint
- difficulty moving your big toe through its full range of movement
- swelling under the big toe joint
Treatment
Treatment options will vary depending on the severity and duration of your pain, but may include;
- reduction of activities that increase your pain
- application of ice to reduce inflammation
- wearing comfortable and cushioned footwear with low heels
- orthoses to cushion your foot and to reduce load on your big toe joint
- avoiding high heels
- changing your sports shoes to a shoe that will provide more cushioning and support
We're Here to Help!
If you are having pain under your big toe joint that does not appear to be going away, you may well have sesamoiditis. The good news is that this pain can go away quickly once you seek treatment. Why don't you contact us today so you can get back to the activities you love?