Sesamoiditis is the name of a fairly common and painful condition that involves the two pea-sized sesamoid bones that are located in the ball of your foot. These small, free-floating bones help absorb and distribute the considerable weight and pressure imparted to the feet when you are standing, walking, and exercising.
If you experience severe pain when you try to bend your big toe and if the ball of your foot is painful, red and swollen, then you may have sesamoiditis. Other conditions including neuromas and metatarsalgia have symptoms that are similar to sesamoiditis, so be sure to see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment.
4 treatments for sesamoiditis include:
- Decrease stress and swelling—Resting, icing, and elevating the affected foot will allow the sesamoid bone area to rest and heal.
- Wear properly-fitted shoes—Correctly-fitted shoes with a lower heel cup and softer soles will decrease pressure on the ball of the foot.
- Medications—Steroid injections may be helpful in decreasing pain and inflammation.
- Custom orthotics—Special braces and custom- made orthotic inserts can be used in your footwear to isolate the sesamoid bones and relieve stress and pressure.
For sesamoiditis that doesn’t improve with these conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary for long-term relief.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in the ball of your foot, see your foot doctor for expert care. The foot specialists at ETL Podiatry in Briarwood and Melville, NY have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle problems. Our team of doctors is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Melville, NY (631)-549-8637 and Briarwood, NY (718)-657-8921.
