Petrolia Foot Clinic
4347 Petrolia Line
Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0
519-882-0019
Chatham Foot Clinic
857 Grand Ave West, Suite 100
Chatham, ON N7L 4T1
519-351-7573
Sesamoids are small bones that are connected only to tendons or are embedded in muscle. This structure appears in only a few places in the human body, one of which is the foot. Two very small sesamoids (about the size of a kernel of corn) are found in the underside of the forefoot near the big toe—one on the outer side of the foot and the other closer to the middle of the foot. Sesamoids provide a smooth surface over which the tendons slide, thus increasing the ability of the tendons to transmit muscle forces. In the foot, sesamoids assist with weight-bearing and help elevate the bones of the big toe.
Like other bones, sesamoids can fracture. Additionally, the tendons surrounding the sesamoids can become irritated or inflamed, which is called sesamoiditis and is a form of tendonitis. Sesamoiditis is a common condition among ballet dancers, runners, and baseball catchers because of the pressures placed on their feet.
Symptoms include:
Surgery is usually not required to treat sesamoiditis. Treatments generally include:
If symptoms persist, you may need to wear a removable brace on the leg for 4-6 weeks to give the inflammation time to subside and the bones to heal.
Questions or Comments?
We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.
Chatham Foot Clinic
857 Grand Ave West, Suite 100
Chatham, ON N74T1
Petrolia Foot Clinic
4347 Petrolia Line
Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0