Summary
The sesamoids are two baked bean sized bones in the tendons under your big toe joint.
They can become inflamed and even fracture causing pain particularly when wakling quickly or running.
How did I get this?
Sesamoidits is usually seen in people who have a sharp blow to the joint, or have a high arched foot with a prominent big toe joint. Dancers and people that wear high heels are more prone to this.
What can I do about it?
- Wear flat cushioning footwear such as joggers. Ice the area.
- Short term use of anti inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen may relieve the symptoms.
What help can I get for this?
- See a podiatrist for footwear advice, padding, strapping, and possible orthotics to relieve stress on the sesamoids.
- Immobilisation in a cam walker may be necessary for severe cases.
- If there is a fracture that does not respond to conservative treatment then surgery may be necessary.
When will it get better?
- Conservative measures should see improvement over a few months.
- Surgical intervention will require a longer recovery period.