Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is an inflammatory condition affecting the sesamoid bones of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint. There are two small bones which are embedded in the tendon of the Flexor Hallucis Brevis muscle just under the base of the big toe.
Signs & Symptoms of Sesamoiditis
- Gradual onset pain.
- Pain with forefoot weight bearing.
- Tenderness over the undersurface of the joint.
- Abnormal Gait - weight is often shifted to the outside of the foot to compensate.
- Swelling and inflammation.
- Pain on moving the big toe, especially against resistance.
These bones can be injured in a number of ways. Sesamoiditis refers to an overuse injury which develops over time due to repetitive impact. An increase in forefoot weight bearing activities (such as dancing) is often the cause. Overpronation should also be considered. These bones can also be fractured through a sudden impact.
Treatment
- Initially rest and cold therapy treatment should be applied to ease pain and inflammation.
- A professional may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen.
- Padding may be used to take the weight off the bones.
- Possible causes of the condition such as overpronation should be corrected using insoles.
- If the above fails, corticosteroid injections may be used.
