How To Spot Sesamoiditis

Dull And Recurring Pain

The onset of pain with sesamoiditis is typically gradual, and many patients may have only mild pain. Severe and sudden pain is typically more suggestive of a sesamoid fracture. To help reduce pain, doctors recommend reducing the activity that caused the pain if possible. Taping the big toe in a slightly downward position using medical or sports tape can sometimes help in pain management. Doctors recommend using foam or felt cushions placed directly underneath the big toe and around the area of pain to redistribute the weight of the foot. Patients should return to their ballet or other sports activities gradually and continue wearing foam pads placed underneath their sesamoids during this time to reduce the chance of recurring pain. In some cases, orthopedists may recommend patients wear a removable device known as a short leg fracture brace on the area for four to six weeks. For cases where dull and recurring pain cannot be resolved with conservative treatments, surgery to remove the sesamoids may be an option.