Good Feet: Sesamoiditis
July 15th, 2008
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is pain around a small bone (the sesamoid) below the metatarsal head where it adjoins the big toe (first metatarsal head). The cause of sesamoiditis is usually repeated injury. Sometimes the bone is fractured, or the bone or surrounding structures are inflamed. Sesamoiditis is particularly common among dancers, joggers, and those who have high-arched feet or wear high heels.The pain of sesamoiditis is felt beneath the ball of the foot at the big toe, is usually made worse by walking, and may be worse when wearing certain shoes. The area may be warm or swollen.The doctor bases the diagnosis on an examination of the foot. The diagnosis may be confirmed by x-rays taken to exclude a fracture of the sesamoid bone.Simply not wearing shoes that cause pain may be sufficient. If symptoms persist, shoes with a thick sole and low heels, orthoses, or a combination can help by reducing pressure on the sesamoid bone. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) taken by mouth and injections of corticosteroids and a local anesthetic into the affected area can help relieve pain.From this site: http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec05/ch072/ch072b.html