Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis and Chronic Sesamoid Fracture treatment in Orange County

Help from your Sesamoid Fracture Expert in Southern California.

A sesamoid is a small bone on the bottom of the big toe joint (1st MTPJ). Sesamoids are found in several joints in the body. In the foot, the sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located beneath the big toe joint.

Types of Sesamoid Injuries

Turf Toe
This is an injury of the soft tissue surrounding the big toe joint. It usually occurs when the big toe joint is extended beyond its normal range. Turf toe causes immediate, sharp pain and swelling. It usually affects the entire big toe joint and limits the motion of the toe. Sometimes a pop is felt at the moment of injury.

Sesamoid Fracture
A stress fracture of the sesamoid is a hairline break usually caused by repetitive stress or overuse. A chronic sesamoid fracture produces longstanding pain in the ball of the foot beneath the big toe joint. The pain, which tends to come and go, generally is aggravated with activity and relieved with rest.

The vascularity to the sesamoid is poor, increasing the chance of non-union and chronic pain.

Sesamoiditis
This is an overuse injury involving chronic inflammation. Sesamoiditis is caused by increased pressure to the sesamoids. Often, sesamoiditis is associated with a dull, longstanding pain beneath the big toe joint. The pain comes and goes, usually occurring with certain shoes or certain activities

Diagnosis of Sesamoiditis or Sesamoid Fracture

X-rays and in some cases, additional imaging studies-such as an ultrasound,
bone scan, or MRI may also be needed.

Treatment of Sesamoiditis

Padding, strapping, or taping
Immobilization or non-weightbearing
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Physical therapy
Steroid injections
Orthotic devices

Treatment of Sesamoid Fracture

Conservative treatment
Total immobilization vs. walking boot

PRP injections for sesamoid fractures have not proven to be effective , but are safe to try

Bone stimulators for sesamoid fractures can decrease the chance of non-union

Surgery for Painful Non-Union Sesamoid Fracture in Orange County
In most cases the sesamoid can be taken out to alleviate the pain.

The bone causes more damage when it is painful.

With chronic pain, arthritis will set in and cause more damage to the metatarsal head.

For a surgical consult, contact Dr. Gennady Kolodenker in Southern California – Orange County. (949) 651-1202

 

 

 

Last Updated 1-05-2017