Sesamoiditis is a condition that affects the two tiny sesamoid bones that float in the ball of your foot area. These bones are unique in that they have no direct connection to the surrounding structure except by tendons and tissues. They absorb pressure when you walk and also help to provide stability, but when they become irritated and inflamed from overuse, they can cause severe pain and discomfort.

Sesamoiditis has similar symptoms to other foot conditions like metatarsalgia and neuroma, which is why you need to see your foot care professional for the correct diagnosis and proper treatment.

Some of the treatments for sesamoiditis include the following:

• Take weight off your foot and apply a cold compress the bottom to reduce swelling around the sesamoid bones
• Wear shoes with a lower heel cup and well-cushioned soles to reduce stress and pressure on the bones
• Corticosteroid medications can be injected to relieve symptoms
• Specially made braces and custom orthotic inserts can divert pressure away from the sesamoid bones

For sesamoiditis that doesn’t improve after the more conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary for long-term relief.

If you are experiencing swelling, pain and discomfort from sesamoiditis, see your podiatrist for expert evaluation and care. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help 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 at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, Woodlyn, and Downingtown. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.