When you have pain underneath the big toe, even walking becomes a challenging task. You keep shifting the pressure on the outer edge of your feet to get comfort. These symptoms indicate that Sesamoiditis could be the underlying condition. Such issues can be taken care of by using orthotic insoles.
Understanding Sesamoiditis
Sesamoids are the two pea-shaped bones present underneath our feet, towards the bigger-toe side of the foot. These pivot (bend) during the foot movements and are responsible for the flex & curl while walking or running.
Since sesamoids are small, they are prone to injuries such as Turf Toe, Metatarsalgia, and Stress Fractures. However, out of all these, Sesamoiditis is the most common form of sesamoid damage.
The inflammation of sesamoids, especially under the big toe, leads to pain, discomfort & tenderness of the ball of the foot is called Sesamoiditis.
What Are The Causes Of Sesamoiditis?
Although anybody can get affected by this condition due to several reasons, some frequent causes could be:
- Wearing high-heeled shoes
- Improper choice of boots
- Running, dancing, or jumping
- High arched feet
- Injury
- Overpronation
- Tight calf muscles
- Osteoarthritis leads to weakened bone structure
What Are The Symptoms of Sesamoiditis?
The dull pain under the ball of your foot can be a signal to seek medical help. Apart from that, the following signs might need immediate attention:
- Swelling & redness of the ball of the foot
- Bruising after some time
- Trouble walking or running
- Tendency to shift weight on the other foot while standing to relieve pain & discomfort
- Sudden pain due to a complete fracture of tendon breaking
Is There A Way Of Treating Sesamoiditis?
Sesamoiditis can hinder daily movements & activities if overlooked for a long time. Although the need for surgery rarely arises & most treatments are non-invasive, one must take the proper treatment. Some of the Sesamoiditis foot treatments could be as follows:
Proper choice of shoes
- Ice therapy
- Physical therapy
- Requisite modifications of shoes
- Shockwave therapy
- Relieve pressure by use of a temporary walking cast
- Custom Orthotics, insoles & arch supports
- Use of anti-inflammatory medications
- Use of steroid injections for reducing inflammation
- Taping technique for the big toe to reduce tension on the sesamoids
- Strapping & padding
- Non-weight bearing (NWB) period to allow rest and recovery of the sesamoid bones
Why Are Sesamoid Bones Hard To Heal?
These bones occupy a sensitive spot and are under constant force & pressure with every step one makes. Hence, the healing process becomes even more challenging. Often, in cases of severe Sesamoiditis, surgeries are recommended. In such cases, healing demands at least 6 - 8 weeks of non-weight bearing (NWB) period. Hence, using modified shoes & custom orthotics and proper medications are needed in such cases.
Getting To Know About Orthotics
These medical equipment are worn to provide pain relief and support to our feet & ankles. They can be easily availed from medical stores as shoe inserts or insoles. However, due to their generic-fit approach, orthotics might not have unique measurements for different patient requirements.
Here comes the role of custom orthotics insoles, which are designed keeping in mind the unique needs, measurements, and comfort of a person. These can be made from gel or foam and address the core issues, such as diabetes and neuropathy. With the help of custom orthotics, the person can perform regular tasks with much ease & comfort; without needing surgery.
Numerous conditions can be corrected or improved with the help of orthotic insoles. Some of them would be:
- Heel spurs
- Achilles tendonitis
- Bunions
- Plantar fasciitis
- Morton’s neuroma
Can Orthotics Be An Answer To Your Sesamoiditis Pain?
Sesamoiditis pain affects the ball of the big toe. The inflammation makes it nearly impossible to move comfortably. Orthotics provide cushioning to the area affected by pain and inflammation to redistribute excess pressure.
One can try over-the-counter orthotics for dull pain or during the initial stages of dull pain. The shoe inserts ease the movement and remove any intense pressure held by the ball of the foot. However, in case of severe Sesamoiditis, it is always better to get a consultation and wear custom orthotics to improve overall functionality.
The Bottom Line
Getting custom orthotics insoles and sesamoiditis orthotics insoles can create a difference in one’s life. Regular tasks can be easily managed, and surgeries can be avoided altogether. It is always better to visit a podiatrist in case of foot discomfort. After getting a consultation and diagnosis of a particular foot condition, one can get a pair of orthotics from many online and offline stores.