Sesamoiditis is a foot problem that is caused when the two sesamoid bones in the ball of the foot and the tissues surrounding them become inflamed and swollen. The sesamoid bones are free-floating bones that have no hard connection to the surrounding bones. They are only connected to the tendons and other connective tissues, with the largest sesamoid bone in the body being your kneecap.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Sesamoiditis

The sesamoid bones are very small and they carry a lot of weight at the ball of the foot, where much of the stress from walking and other activities occurs. If you experience severe pain when bending your big toe, and if the ball of your foot is swelling, you may have sesamoiditis. People who engage in high-stress activities including sports, ballet dancing, and running, are more likely to experience this problem and other similar conditions, including neuroma and capsulitis.

Initial treatments for sesamoiditis are noninvasive and involve resting and icing to reduce swelling and pressure. Low heel cups in your shoes and softer soles can help reduce the pressure on the sesamoid bones while they heal. A brace may be needed in more severe cases and you will have to wear it for a month or more for proper healing to occur.

If you are experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, see your foot doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment. At Your Next Step, our team of dedicated board-certified podiatrists diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment at our offices in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown, PA.