Definition

A sesamoid fracture is a break in 1 of the 2 pea-shaped bones in the ball of the foot beneath the big toe. These bones let the feet move smoothly.

Sesamoid Bones of the Foot Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Causes may be:

• A direct blow to the foot, such as from falling and landing heavily
• Repetitive stress to the foot

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who play high-impact sports, such as running, aerobics, ballet, or gymnastics.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain in the ball of the foot and big toe. Other problems may be:

• Swelling and redness of the foot and big toe
• Pain in the ball of the foot behind the big toe
• Pain when walking

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You may be asked about any injury you have had or any activities that you do. You may need to see a doctor who treats bones or feet.

Images may be taken. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• CT scan or MRI scan
• Bone scan

Treatment

It will take 4 to 8 weeks for most people to heal. The goals of treatment are to manage pain and support the bone as it heals. This may include:

• Medicine to ease pain and swelling
• A cast to keep the bone in place as it heals
• Crutches to take weight off of the foot
• Exercises to help with strength and range of motion

Prevention

This problem cannot always be prevented. Starting a new sport slowly may help lower the risk of injury.