Most people know that the foot is a complex structure with 26 bones. But did you know there are actually two tiny bones often overlooked? These are the sesamoids, two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. While they may be small, sesamoid injuries can cause significant pain and even lead to surgery if left untreated. If you’re aching and seeking answers, don’t worry; Advanced Foot Care of NJ has laid out the basic info below.

Sesamoiditis: When Small Bones Cause Big Problems

Sesamoiditis is a condition that occurs when the sesamoid bones become inflamed. This often happens due to repetitive pressure on the big toe joint, such as from running, jumping, or wearing high heels. People with high arches are also more prone to sesamoiditis because they naturally place more pressure on the ball of the foot.

Symptoms of sesamoiditis include:

Pain under the big toe joint
Swelling and tenderness in the area
Difficulty bending or straightening the big toe

Sesamoid Fractures: A Tough Break

Another common sesamoid injury is a fracture, or break, in one of the bones. This can occur due to a sudden impact, such as dropping a heavy object on your foot or from repetitive stress. Sesamoid fractures can be challenging to heal due to the limited blood supply to these small bones.

Early Diagnosis is Key

Because sesamoid problems can be difficult to heal, early diagnosis is crucial.

If you experience pain on the ball of your foot, don’t ignore it! Seek professional help from a podiatrist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options

For mild cases of sesamoiditis, conservative treatment may include:

Resting the foot
Applying ice
Wearing supportive shoes with cushioning
Using over-the-counter pain relievers
Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure

For more serious cases, your podiatrist might recommend:

Immobilization: A walking boot or cast may be necessary to immobilize the foot and allow the bones to heal.
Surgery: If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be required to remove a fractured sesamoid or address persistent pain.

Don’t Let Small Bones Cause Big Issues!

Those tiny bones under your big toe play a crucial role in foot function, so don’t ignore the pain in this area – instead, seek professional help to ensure healing and prevent problems!

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!