Experiencing a sharp or dull ache at the front of your foot can make every step a challenge. This discomfort may be due to sesamoiditis, a common overuse injury involving inflammation of the small sesamoid bones and the surrounding tendons under the joint of the big toe.
Whether you are an athlete or a busy professional, early identification by a podiatrist can help you manage discomfort and prevent it from recurring.
What is Sesamoiditis?
Unlike most bones connected by joints, sesamoid bones are unique because they are embedded directly within the tendons. In the foot, two pea-sized sesamoids sit beneath the joint of the big toe, acting like miniature kneecaps.
These bones provide a smooth surface for the tendons to slide over, absorbing weight and improving the leverage of the big toe during movement.
When the tendons and tissues surrounding these bones become inflamed due to repetitive pressure, sesamoiditis occurs. Also, this concern is frequently observed in individuals participating in activities like running or dancing, where repeated upward strain is placed on the forefoot.
What Does Sesamoiditis Feel Like?
The primary indicator of sesamoiditis is a gradual onset of pain under the big toe pad, felt right beneath the joint. Individuals may also describe the sensation as a dull ache that may become sharp or throbbing when direct pressure is applied, making activities like walking somewhat painful.
Typically, this discomfort intensifies during specific movements:
- The push-off phase of walking as the heel lifts.
- Standing high on the toes.
- Wearing high heels or footwear with thin, flexible soles.
While mild swelling or bruising may occur, the most significant feature is persistent difficulty bearing weight on the forefoot.
Is Plantar Fasciitis the Same as Sesamoiditis?
Given that plantar fasciitis and sesamoiditis share symptoms involving the feet, it’s important to differentiate between them to determine the appropriate management plan. While both involve inflammation, they affect distinct areas of the foot:
- Location Difference: While plantar fasciitis causes discomfort along the arch or heel at the back of the foot, sesamoiditis causes pain specifically at the front of the foot, under the big toe joint.
- Cause Difference: Plantar fasciitis involves the fascia band, while sesamoiditis relates to the small sesamoid bones and their surrounding tendons.
Professional Sesamoiditis Management
Proper care begins with a professional assessment to identify the concern and rule out other issues, such as a sesamoid bone stress fracture. And since the primary goal of sesamoiditis treatment is to offload the joint and reduce pressure, a podiatrist may provide relief with temporary strapping or taping to limit big-toe movement.
Additionally, for long-term support, they may recommend wearing custom orthotic insoles or supportive footwear to minimise strain on the foot. These are designed to strategically redistribute weight away from the forefoot, providing cushioning to the joint.
Furthermore, the plan may be enhanced with modalities like shockwave therapy or targeted exercises to support the tendons.
Take the First Step Toward Better Foot Health
If you experience persistent pain under the big toe pad, seek a professional assessment to get a tailored management plan designed to reduce inflammation and address the mechanical pressures affecting the forefoot.
Schedule a consultation at Dr Foot Podiatry today for a customised plan focused on restoring comfort and function to your feet. We also offer other foot-related solutions, including shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis and heel pain treatment.