Sesamoiditis is a pathology consisting of inflammation of the sesamoid bones of the feet.
As explained by the (ICOPCV) it is one of the diseases of the feet that most affects athletes such as runners, jumpers and dancers. Although anyone can be affected.
Sesamoid bones, named for their resemblance to a sesame seed, are the small, rounded bones of the joints, found within the tendon.
They are located on the sole of the foot, specifically on the head of the first metatarsal, or what is the same in the long bone that connects to the big toe.
These little bones fulfill an important mission. In addition to supporting the weight of our body, they transfer the load to the big toe, which is essential for walking.
Causes of sesamoiditis in the feet
As the ICOPCV specialists explain, among the main causes of sesamoiditis, four stand out:
- Hyperpressure at the point where the sesamoid bones meet. “Hence, it is more frequent in athletes who, due to their discipline, frequently generate a strong impact in the area. The pressure occurs just at the moment the foot leaves the ground,” he explains. Pilar Nietopresident of the ICOPCV.
- Lack of fat on the plantar pad. Although body fat is highly reviled, to avoid sesamoiditis it is essential. “The plantar pad is like a natural cushioning for our body. If we have very little, the impact is greater and this causes inflammation and pain,” says the podiatrist.
- Have hollow feet. People who have a cavus foot, that is, with a lot of curvature in the plantar arch, continually generate hyperpressure in the area when walking.
- Abuse . In these cases, the same thing happens as in cavus feet, hyperpressure occurs in the sesamoid bones.
symptoms of sesamoiditis
Pain, a lot of pain at the base of the big toe. This is the main symptom of sesamoiditis.
It hurts to such an extent that it can impede mobility. Sometimes swelling of the area can also occur, or even notice heat or redness.
To determine that we are facing this pathology, it may be enough for the specialist to perform a physical examination of the patient. Of course, this examination can also be completed with x-rays or even a CT scan or an MRI.
Treatment
There are several ways to treat patients with sesamoiditis, depending on the severity of the disease at the time the podiatrist is seen.
Thus, in the mildest cases they can treated simply by stopping the activity that produces it (running, wearing heels…).
It also can:
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Apply cold to the sesamoid bones
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Wear shoes with padding on the front
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Use custom templates.
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And of course, taking painkillers to alleviate the pain.
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When the disease has acquired a more complex character, podiatrists indicate that hyaluronic acid infiltration in the area may be necessary.
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And, in severe cases, it may become necessary to remove the affected bones.