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.
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