Sesamoiditis is pain around the two small bones (the sesamoid bones) below the metatarsal head where it adjoins the big toe (first metatarsal head).
Symptoms include pain when walking (especially barefoot) or while wearing certain types of shoes.
The diagnosis is based on an examination of the foot.
Orthoses, offloading pads, and new shoes can help relieve pain.
Sesamoiditis is a common cause of pain in the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia).
The cause of sesamoiditis is usually repeated injury. Sometimes the bones are fractured, or the bones or surrounding tissues are inflamed. A change in the structure of the foot can sometimes shift the position of the sesamoids (displacement) and cause pain.
Sesamoiditis is particularly common among dancers, joggers, and people who have high-arched feet or frequently wear high heels. Many people with bunions have sesamoiditis.
