Generally speaking, a sesamoid
is any bone embedded in a tendon. Sesamoids are found in several joints
in the body.
In the normal foot, the
sesamoids are two pea-shaped bones located in the ball of the foot beneath the
big toe joint.
Acting as a pulley for
tendons, the sesamoids help the big toe move normally and provide leverage when
the big toe “pushes off” during walking and running. The sesamoids also serve
as a weight-bearing surface for the first metatarsal bone (the long bone
connected to the big toe), absorbing the weight placed on the ball of the foot
when walking, running or jumping.
Sesamoid injuries can
involve the bones, tendons, and/or surrounding tissue in the joint. They are
often associated with activities requiring increased pressure on the ball of
the foot, such as running, basketball, football, golf, tennis, and ballet. In
addition, people with high arches are at risk for developing sesamoid problems.
Frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes can also be a contributing factor.
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