Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a common ailment that affects the forefoot, typically in young people who engage in physical activity like running or dancing. The most common symptom is pain in the ball-of-the-foot, especially on the medial or inner side. Sesamoiditis is usually distinguished from other forefoot conditions by its gradual onset. However, the only way you’ll know you have sesamoiditis is if you visit our doctors at Orange CA Podiatry.

The sesamoid is a small bone under the ball of the foot. In the normal foot, the sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located in the ball of the foot, beneath the big toe joint. Acting as a pulley for tendons, the sesamoids help the big toe move normally and provide leverage when the big toe “pushes off” during walking and running. Sesamoid injuries can involve the bones, tendons, and/or surrounding tissues in the joint and typically cause pain. In addition, people with high arches are at risk for developing sesamoid problems. Frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes can also be a contributing factor.

If you are a highly active person and begin to experience swelling and bruising in your toes or joints, please give us a call. For more information about sesamoiditis as well as other conditions we treat and the services we offer, visit www.orangecapodiatry.com. To schedule an examination with one of our podiatrists at Orange CA Podiatry in Orange, CA, call 714-628-1995.