If you have not heard about sesamoiditis before, it is a condition that affects the sesamoids. Most of the bones in the body are connected to each other at the joints. There are a few bones that are not connected to any other bone. These are only connected to tendons or embedded in muscle and these are the sesamoids.
The largest sesamoid is the kneecap. There are two small-sized sesamoids present in the underside of the forefoot close to the great toe. One is on the exterior side of the foot while the other is close to the middle of the foot.
It is important to note that the sesamoids in the forefoot also help in weight bearing and elevate the bones of the great toe. Just like other bones, the sesamoids can break. In addition, the tendons that surround the sesamoids might end up inflamed or irritated. This condition is called as sesamoiditis which is a form of tendinitis. It is important to note that sesamoiditis is prevalent among runners, ballet dancers and baseball players.
What are the symptoms?
- Pain is centered under the great toe on the ball of the foot. The pain can gradually develop.
- The individual will experience pain and difficulty in bending and straightening the great toe.
- Swelling and bruising may or may not be present.
Diagnosing sesamoiditis
During the examination, the doctor will assess for tenderness at the sesamoid bones. The doctor will manipulate the bone gently or ask to bend and straighten the toe. The great toe will be bent toward the top of the foot to check if the pain intensifies.
The doctor will request an X-ray of the foot to ensure the right diagnosis. The doctor will also request an X-ray of the other foot for comparison. In case the X-ray appears normal, the doctor might request a bone scan.
Treatment
The treatment for sesamoiditis will not require surgical intervention. To learn to recognize and manage bones conditions including sesamoiditis, register for a first aid class with a credible provider near you. Nevertheless, if the conservative measures do not work, the doctor will recommend surgery to remove the sesamoid bone. By taking into consideration these measures, it can help relieve the symptoms.
- The individual should stop the activity that triggered the pain.
- Provide the individual with ibuprofen or aspirin to relieve the pain.
- The individual must rest and apply an ice pack on the sole of the feet. Do not apply ice directly over the skin. Make sure that it is wrapped in a clean towel or cloth.
- Use shoes that have soft soles and low heels. Shoes that have stiff soles such as clogs can provide comfort.
- Utilize a cushioning pad in order to relieve the stress.
- The individual should resume activity progressively and continue to use a cushioning mat made out of thick foam rubber beneath the sesamoids for support. Avoid activities that put weight on the balls of the feet.
- The great toe should be taped so that it stays slightly bent downwards.
- The doctor will recommend steroid injections in order to minimize the swelling.
In case the symptoms persist, the individual is recommended to wear a detachable short leg brace for 4-6 weeks.