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What Are Sesamoids?
What Are Sesamoids?
Sesamoids are small, rounded bones under the big toe joint (1st metatarsophalangeal joint) embedded within tendons. These bones function as pulleys for tendons, helping to reduce friction and enhance movement efficiency.
What Is Sesamoiditis?
What Is Sesamoiditis?
Sesamoiditis refers to inflammation of the sesamoid bones under the big toe, and the surrounding tendons and tissues. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and discomfort in the ball of the foot, making it difficult to walk or put weight on the affected foot.
Signs and Symptoms of Sesamoiditis
Pain: Discomfort under the big toe joint (1st metatarsophalangeal joint).
Swelling, Redness, or Warmth: Inflammation around the sesamoid area.
Tenderness: Sensitivity when pressing on the sesamoid bones.
Pain During Activity or Big Toe Movement: Increased pain when walking, running, or engaging in activities that involve bending the toe.
Difficulty Bearing Weight: Pain or discomfort when putting weight on the affected foot.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
Causes of sesamoiditis include repetitive stress from high-impact activities like running or jumping, footwear that lacks cushioning or puts excessive pressure on the forefoot, direct trauma to the sesamoid area, overuse from prolonged activities, and biomechanical issues such as high arches or excessive pronation that increase stress on the sesamoids.
Risk Factors of Sesamoiditis
Risk Factors of Sesamoiditis
High-Impact Sports or Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive stress on the big toes, such as ballet dancing, or running, particularly for forefoot runners.
Inappropriate Footwear: Shoes that provide insufficient cushioning or support.
Foot Deformities: Structural issues such as high arches or bunions that place additional strain on the sesamoid bones.
Excess Weight: Being overweight can increase pressure on the foot and sesamoids.
Previous Injuries: Past foot injuries that make the area more prone to stress and inflammation.
Treatment and Management of Sesamoiditis
Relief from sesamoiditis typically involves reducing pressure on the sesamoid bones. If left untreated, this condition can lead to fractures or avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply) in the sesamoids.
Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Ice Therapy: Applying ice to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
Exercises: Performing exercises to strengthen the foot and enhance flexibility, reducing stress on the sesamoids.
Strapping or Taping: Utilizing strapping techniques to stabilize the area and reduce stress on the sesamoids.
Footwear Change: Opting for supportive shoes with ample cushioning and a wider toe box to relieve pressure on the sesamoids.
Custom Foot Orthotics: Using custom foot orthotics with forefoot modifications to offload pressure and support the foot.
Shockwave Therapy: To facilitate healing and promote quicker recovery by improving blood flow to the area.
Advanced Treatments: For severe cases, immobilization with a walking boot, corticosteroid injections, or, in rare instances, surgery may be considered if conservative treatments fail.
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