Sesamoiditis Treatment In New Jersey

If pain under your big toe joint is limiting your mobility and keeping you from enjoying the activities you love, the underlying cause could be sesamoiditis – a condition affecting the tendons and structures surrounding the sesamoid bones. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our team specializes in cutting-edge sesamoiditis diagnosis and treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more!

What Is Sesamoiditis?

Sesamoiditis is an overuse injury characterized by inflammation of the tendons and soft tissues surrounding the sesamoid bones. These small, pebble-like bones are located beneath the big toe joint and embedded within the tendons of the flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) muscle – one of the muscles responsible for flexion of the big toe.

When the tendons and structures surrounding the sesamoid bones become irritated – often as a result of repetitive stress or high-impact activities – inflammation and pain may develop. Sesamoiditis pain often increases with weight-bearing activities and can become progressively worse over time without proper treatment.

At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, we commonly see sesamoiditis in young athletes, but the condition can also develop in people of any age who:

• Participate in activities that involve pushing off or landing on the ball of the foot
• Spend prolonged periods of time standing or walking
• Regularly wear high heels or unsupportive shoes
• Have high arches or a foot structure that increases sesamoid pressure

Diagnosis Of Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis typically has a gradual onset and can vary in intensity depending on factors such as activity level, foot mechanics, and footwear. If pain under your big toe is affecting your mobility, it should always be evaluated by an experienced orthopedic specialist.

Identifying Symptoms Of Sesamoiditis

Symptoms of sesamoiditis can vary from patient to patient, but commonly include:

• Pain under the big toe joint that worsens with activity
• Swelling and/or tenderness of the affected area
• Difficulty pushing off the big toe or standing on tiptoe

Diagnostic Methods For Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis can usually be diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical exam. At your initial consultation at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, you can expect the following:

• One of our orthopedic specialists will take the time to get to know you, understand your medical history and concerns, and perform an in-depth physical examination of the affected foot.
• In some cases, additional imaging tests may be ordered (X-rays, MRI, ultrasound) to rule out other conditions – such as sesamoid bone fractures.

Rehabilitation And Recovery

The rehabilitation and recovery process for sesamoiditis is determined by a variety of factors, including the severity of the condition, the treatment approach, and the activity level of the patient. With conservative care, most patients begin to notice improvements in their symptoms within 1 to 2 months, though full recovery may take longer. Rehabilitation following sesamoiditis surgery typically takes several months and involves a commitment to regular physical therapy. Speak with your surgeon for more specifics about what to expect during sesamoiditis recovery.

Risks And Complications Without Proper Treatment

Without proper treatment, sesamoiditis can progress and worsen significantly, leading to complications in both the short and long term:

Immediate Risks Of Untreated Sesamoiditis

• Persistent pain/swelling under the big toe that results in difficulty walking or performing daily tasks
• Increased risk of injury due to abnormal gait

Long-Term Consequences Of Neglecting Sesamoiditis

• Chronic pain and inflammation in the forefoot
• Development of sesamoid bone fractures
• Arthritis of the big toe joint
• Altered gait that can lead to additional issues in other joints
• Higher likelihood that surgical intervention may become necessary

Prevention Strategies For Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis isn’t always preventable, but the following strategies may help to decrease the risk of developing the condition:

• Wear supportive footwear with a wide toe box (avoid high heels)
• Consider custom orthotic devices to relieve sesamoid pressure, especially if you are prone to big toe pain
• Build up gradually to physically strenuous movement, particularly high-impact activities
• Include stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet and calves in your exercise program
• Avoid prolonged periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces whenever possible
• Seek treatment when foot pain is in its early stages

Ready to address big toe pain and get back to your full physical regimen? The world-class team at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take your first step toward full mobility and pain-free living!