Under the main joint of your big toe are two pea-sized bones called sesamoids (say "SEH-suh-moyds"). They work with other bones, muscles, and tendons to help your toe and foot work correctly.
Sometimes the force from walking, running, or jumping causes these bones to break. Or the tendons around these bones may get irritated and inflamed over time. When the tendons get inflamed, it's called sesamoiditis (say "SEH-suh-moy-DY-tis").
A sesamoid injury is usually treated with proper shoes or with shoe inserts. Some people need to have their toe joint taped, or they need to wear a walking cast for a few weeks. The tape or cast keeps the joint from moving while it heals. Your doctor may give you a shot of steroid medicine in the foot to relieve pain and inflammation.
Some people will need to wear a hard cast that is not removable. They'll need to stay off of their feet for a while. Some people need surgery to repair the bone.
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