What is it?

• Inflammation of the region around the tiny sesamoid bones, which are actually inside tendons that run to the big toe

• May also be a result of damage to the sesamoid bones themselves

What causes it?

• High impact activities which may irritate the tendons or cause damage to the bones; a sudden increase in activity levels
• Rapid weight gain or being overweight
• Loss of fat pad on bottom of foot with age which results in decreased cushioning

Signs and Symptoms

• May begin slowly as a dull pain but progressively increases in intensity into a more persistent throbbing pain

Prevention and Treatments

• Rest / reduce activity level until symptoms subside; choose low impact activities such as swimming in the interim
• Cushioning devices to offload pressure
• Low dye strapping (taping) to help immobilize the involved area
• Prescription custom orthotics to help correct structural foot problems if they are causing the pain
• Footwear that is properly suited to your foot type. For an illustration of what to look for in footwear at your local shoe store for your type foot, click here. Your Chiropodist can provide further footwear advice

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