Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis Treatment in Fort Worth & Burleson, TX

Sesamoiditis is a condition that causes pain beneath the big toe joint, often due to repetitive stress or overuse. It is commonly seen in athletes and individuals who place increased pressure on the forefoot.

Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM is a dual board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon providing comprehensive treatment for sesamoid injuries in Fort Worth and Burleson, Texas. Treatment focuses on relieving pressure, reducing inflammation, and restoring function.

What is Sesamoiditis?

The sesamoids are two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. They help absorb pressure and assist with movement during walking and running.

Sesamoiditis occurs when these bones and surrounding tissues become irritated from repetitive loading.

In some cases, symptoms may also be related to:

Sesamoid stress fractures
Chronic inflammation
Degenerative changes

Accurate diagnosis is important to guide treatment.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Pain under the big toe joint
Pain with walking or push-off
Swelling in the forefoot
Tenderness directly under the toe
Increased pain with activity
Symptoms may worsen with running or prolonged standing.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors?

Sesamoiditis is often caused by increased pressure on the forefoot.

Common risk factors include:

High-impact activities (running, jumping)
High arches
Foot mechanics that increase forefoot loading
Improper footwear
Repetitive stress

Over time, continued pressure can lead to worsening symptoms.

What Are The Treatment Options?

Most cases improve with offloading and activity modification.

Activity restriction
Offloading pads
Custom orthotics
Supportive footwear
Anti-inflammatory medications
Immobilization in a walking boot (for more severe cases)

Reducing pressure on the sesamoids is key to healing.

Surgery is rarely required but may be considered for:

Persistent pain despite conservative care
Sesamoid fracture nonunion
Chronic inflammation unresponsive to treatment

Procedures may include:

Partial sesamoid excision
Debridement of damaged tissue

Surgical decisions are made carefully due to the importance of these bones in foot function.

What Is The Recovery Timeline?

Recovery depends on severity.

Mild cases may improve in several weeks
More severe cases may take longer with offloading
Gradual return to activity is important

Avoiding early return to high-impact activity helps prevent recurrence.

When To See A Specialist?

Persistent pain under the big toe
Pain that worsens with activity
Difficulty walking or pushing off
Symptoms not improving with rest
Early evaluation can help prevent long-term issues.

Dr. Ryba sees patients in Fort Worth and Burleson, TX through
Lonestar Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, PLLC.

When scheduling, please request an appointment specifically with Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM.