Identifying Sesamoiditis

Sesamoids are unusual bones because they aren’t connected to any other bone at a joint. Instead, they are either ensconced within muscle or connected to tendons. Although the two sesamoids in the foot are quite small, they play an important role in your foot’s proper functioning. Sesamoiditis refers to the inflammation of the tendons connected to the sesamoids. It may also sometimes involve fracturing of these tiny bones. If you visit a foot specialist in Sugar Land because of acute or chronic foot pain, he or she might consider the possibility of sesamoiditis.

If you’ve fractured a sesamoid, your foot pain will develop suddenly. If the tendons have become inflamed and irritated, your foot pain will likely develop more gradually. The pain of sesamoiditis is localized to the ball of the foot under the big toe. It’s common for patients to have trouble straightening and bending the big toe. During a physical exam, the foot doctor might notice visible swelling and bruising. X-rays are usually needed to confirm the diagnosis.