What is sesamoiditis, also known as inflammation of the sesamoid (sesamoid) bones?

From the Guidelines

Sesamoiditis is a painful inflammation of the sesamoid bones and surrounding tissues in the ball of the foot, typically beneath the big toe joint. This condition is characterized by a range of symptoms, including pain under the big toe joint that worsens with activity, swelling, difficulty bending the toe, and a bruised appearance. The sesamoid bones, which are small, pea-shaped bones, act as pulleys for tendons and help with weight-bearing during walking, making them prone to repetitive pressure or trauma, commonly affecting athletes, dancers, and people who wear high-heeled shoes frequently 1.

Key Characteristics of Sesamoiditis

• Painful inflammation of the sesamoid bones and surrounding tissues
• Typically located beneath the big toe joint
• Symptoms worsen with activity
• Commonly affects athletes, dancers, and people who wear high-heeled shoes frequently

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnosis of sesamoiditis may involve imaging studies, such as CT scans, to confirm suspected sesamoid stress fractures or to distinguish between a stress fracture and a bipartite sesamoid 1. CT scans can also be useful in evaluating nonunion of sesamoid fractures in symptomatic patients with persistent bone marrow edema on MRI.

Treatment Options

Treatment for sesamoiditis typically involves a combination of rest, ice application, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, as well as wearing shoes with cushioned soles and using padded inserts or orthotics 1. In severe cases, immobilization with a walking boot, steroid injections, or rarely surgery might be necessary. Proper treatment and adherence to treatment recommendations are crucial for improving the condition and reducing the risk of long-term morbidity and mortality.

From the Research

Definition of Sesamoiditis

• Sesamoiditis is not defined in the provided studies 2, 3, 4

Related Information

• The provided studies discuss the safety and efficacy of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib in the management of osteoarthritis and other conditions 2, 3, 4
• However, they do not provide information on sesamoiditis, which is a condition that affects the sesamoid bones and tendons in the foot

Availability of Research

• There are no research papers in the provided evidence to assist in answering the question about sesamoiditis 2, 3, 4