Sesamoiditis: Forefoot Pain and Injury Awareness

Sesamoiditis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint). This condition most often leads to forefoot pain, particularly during weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, or standing for long periods.

The sesamoid bones are two small bones embedded within the tendon beneath the big toe. Their role is to protect the surrounding tendons, improve leverage during movement, and help absorb weight through the inside of the foot. Because of this function, they are exposed to significant stress, especially during repetitive or high-impact activity.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Sesamoiditis typically develops gradually rather than suddenly. Common symptoms include:

• Forefoot pain that worsens when standing or walking

• Tenderness beneath the base of the big toe

• Swelling or inflammation in the forefoot

• Limping or shifting weight to the outside of the foot

• Pain when the big toe is moved against resistance

Pain may initially feel mild but can become persistent if activity continues.

Why Sesamoiditis Develops

Several factors can contribute to sesamoid irritation or injury, including:

• Repetitive stress from running, jumping, or sports involving forefoot loading
• Sudden increases in training or activity levels
• Foot mechanics such as overpronation, which alters weight distribution
• Stress reactions or stress fractures of the sesamoid bones
• Previous foot injuries or trauma

Improper footwear or lack of cushioning can also increase pressure beneath the big toe joint.

First Aid Awareness and Early Care

From a first aid perspective, early recognition of forefoot pain is important to prevent worsening injury.

General first aid awareness includes:

• Reducing or stopping activities that cause pain
• Applying cold to help manage discomfort and inflammation
• Avoiding prolonged weight-bearing when symptoms are present
• Seeking assessment if pain persists or worsens

Padding or footwear modifications may be used to reduce pressure on the affected area under professional guidance.

Medical Care and Recovery

Medical management depends on severity and underlying cause. Conservative care may include rest, footwear adjustments, or temporary activity modification. If imaging confirms a stress fracture, a period of non-weight bearing and immobilization may be required.

Early evaluation helps distinguish sesamoiditis from more serious foot injuries and supports safer recovery.

Why First Aid Training Matters

Foot injuries such as sesamoiditis are common in sports, workplaces, and everyday life across Canada. First aid training helps individuals recognize early warning signs of overuse injuries, apply appropriate early care, and understand when medical evaluation is necessary.

This awareness supports safer mobility and reduces the risk of long-term foot problems.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. To learn how to recognize and respond to musculoskeletal injuries and other health emergencies, consider enrolling in a first aid and CPR course with a Canadian training provider.