5 Simple Treatments for Sesamoiditis
The unique characteristic of sesamoid bones is they do not have a direct connection to other bones. The largest sesamoid bone is the kneecap. There are also two small free-floating sesamoid bones located in the ball of the foot. They are about the size of a pea and help with toe movement, ambulation, and support. Pain and inflammation around these bones cause a condition called sesamoiditis that can make standing and walking painful. Orthotic inserts are an excellent treatment for this condition.
The sesamoid bones are connected to other parts of the foot with tendons and other soft tissues. When these tissues and small bones become inflamed from stress and pressure, considerable pain and discomfort is often the result.
Some noninvasive treatments for sesamoiditis include the following:
Wear shoes with softer soles—Soft-soled shoes like sneakers will help relieve stress on the ball of the foot.
Use custom orthotic inserts—Check with your foot doctor about custom orthotic inserts used to redirect pressure away from the ball of the foot, thereby decreasing stress on the sesamoid bones so they can get better.
Switch activities—Stop activities that cause stress to the ball of the foot while the foot heals. Try switching to swimming and upper body workouts.
Take medication for pain and swelling—Ibuprofen and other NSAIDS are taken orally to help reduce pain and swelling.
Massage—Massaging the area will help relieve pain.
Sesamoiditis can become chronic and lead to other foot problems if not properly treated. The condition responds well to conservative treatments, but in severe cases, may require surgery.
Since problems in the ball of the foot can be challenging to diagnose and treat, see your foot doctor for the proper care. Get in touch with Valley Stream Podiatry, located in Valley Stream, NY With access to advanced technologies, Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Michael Barkin and Dr. Sajni Shah can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions, including heel pain, foot & ankle injuries, bunions hammertoes, fungal toenails, and plantar warts. Call (516) 825-3860 or make an appointment online today.