Sesamoiditis Treatment
Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Children's sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis in Children
When the small bones under the big toe joint (called sesamoids) become irritated or inflamed, it causes a painful condition known as sesamoiditis. This problem can affect active kids who run, jump, or play sports.
What Is Sesamoiditis?
Sesamoiditis happens when the tendons and bones beneath the big toe joint become overused or strained. These tiny sesamoid bones help with balance and push-off during walking or running. Repeated stress or tight footwear can cause inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot.
Common Symptoms
Pain under the big toe joint
Swelling or redness on the ball of the foot
Pain that worsens when walking, running, or jumping
Trouble bending or straightening the big toe
Causes in Children
Sesamoiditis often develops in children who:
Play sports like dance, basketball, or soccer
Wear shoes with minimal padding or high-pressure soles
Have high arches or an abnormal gait pattern
Recently increased physical activity or training intensity
Diagnosis
Dr. Mikkel Jarman performs a detailed foot exam, gait analysis, and may use digital X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and rule out fractures or other conditions.
Treatment Options
Early treatment helps prevent long-term pain. Our pediatric foot specialists may recommend:
Rest and activity modification
Supportive or cushioned shoes
Custom pediatric orthotics to offload pressure
Physical therapy and stretching exercises
Anti-inflammatory treatments or immobilization when needed
REcovery and prevention
Most children recover fully with proper rest and supportive footwear. Custom orthotics and gradual return to activity help prevent recurrence of sesamoiditis.
Not everything is sesamoiditis. Some differentials can be turf toe, hallux limitus, metatarsalgia. Initially treated similarly with a Lilly device.
When to see a specialist
If your child complains of pain beneath the big toe joint that doesn’t improve in a few days, schedule an evaluation. Early diagnosis ensures faster recovery and helps your child return to activities pain-free.
Sesamoiditis FAQ's
Sesamoiditis is inflammation of the small bones (sesamoids) under the big toe joint. In children, it usually develops from overuse, repetitive impact, or tight shoes that put pressure on the ball of the foot.
Common signs include pain under the big toe joint, swelling, and discomfort that worsens when walking or running. If your child limps or avoids pressure on the big toe, it may be time to see a pediatric podiatrist.
Most cases of sesamoiditis are not serious, but ignoring the pain can lead to chronic inflammation or even a stress fracture of the sesamoid bones. Early treatment helps prevent long-term issues.
Treatment focuses on rest, cushioned footwear, and reducing pressure on the toe joint. Dr. Jarman may recommend custom pediatric orthotics, activity modification, or physical therapy to support healing.
With proper care, most children recover within a few weeks. Severe cases or those involving stress fractures may take longer, especially if the child returns to sports too soon.
With proper care, most children recover within a few weeks. Severe cases or those involving stress fractures may take longer, especially if the child returns to sports too soon.
Yes, it can recur if the child resumes high-impact activities or wears unsupportive shoes. Custom orthotics and proper footwear are the best ways to prevent future flare-ups.
If your child has persistent pain or swelling under the big toe joint that doesn’t improve after rest, schedule a pediatric podiatry visit. Early evaluation ensures faster recovery and keeps your child active safely.
