FACT SHEET
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a common condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot specifically under the big toe joint. The sesamoid bones are very small bones that are located under the big toe joint within the tendons that run to the big toe. Due to their location and function they are subjected to massive amounts of pressure and force every time the big toe is used to push the foot forward.
Symptoms
Sesamoiditis typically starts as a mild ache under the big toe joint and gradually becomes worse. In some cases it will cause intense throbbing even when the person is resting. Once sesamoiditis starts, it makes it very difficult to enjoy simple activities, even walking. Normal feet rarely get sesamoiditis, however people with both high arched, or flat feet tend to be more prone to this problem.
Treatment
Initially, after a thorough examination of your lower limbs, a Podiatrist will usually make a temporary support to redirect weight away from the painful area, and to control your overall foot function. In most cases the temporary support will reduce your pain by about 80% in the first 48 hours, as pain relief is initially the primary goal.
If the temporary support has been successful, which it will be, your podiatrist will then discuss making a permanent foot support (orthotic) for the patient to use long-term. To be effective, the permanent foot support should be made using softer rubber type materials and should also be full-length.
Immobilisation, rest, Ice and oral anti-inflammatory drugs can also be very beneficial, however all of these forms of treatment only compliment having foot supports made. Foot Supports treat the underlying cause of the problem and this is really the only way to treat the problem affectively and to stop it from re-occurring.
Surgery
In very severe cases or following a true fracture of the sesamoids, which can occur, surgery may be required to remove the damaged or fragmented sesamoid bone, but this is quite rare.
