That nagging pain directly under the big toe joint, especially when you push off the ground, might be more than just a passing ache. It could be sesamoiditis, which is a common condition that affects two small, pea-shaped bones located in the ball of your foot. In this article, we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists are here to tell you what these bones are and why they can become painful.
Sesamoid bones are unique because, unlike most bones, they are not connected to other bones by joints. Instead, they are embedded within tendons.
In the foot, there are two sesamoid bones located underneath the head of the first metatarsal bone, which connects to your big toe. Their primary functions are to act as a lever for the tendon that helps you bend the big toe, absorb force as you walk and run, and help distribute weight away from the metatarsal.
Simply put, sesamoiditis occurs when these bones or the tendons surrounding them become inflamed due to repetitive stress.
The hallmark symptom? Pain is directly under the big toe joint. This pain is typically gradual in the beginning and often described as a dull throbbing or persistent ache. It also usually worsens whenever you put pressure on it, so when standing, walking, running, or pushing off the ground is involved.
That’s why wearing high heels or thin-soled shoes can make your sesamoiditis worse, but the pain usually improves with rest or when the weight is taken off the foot.
In some cases, people may even notice localized swelling or bruising around the big toe joint and have trouble bending the big toe.
So, how do people get it? Sesamoiditis is primarily an overuse injury that results from chronic or repetitive stress placed on the sesamoid bones. And there are many factors that lead to it, such as:
For any podiatric concerns you’re facing, come see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.
