The Sesmoids-What are they?

Often, when I am taking an x-ray of the foot, people point to two circular bones with concern and ask "what are these?" The two round bones under the big toe joint (first metatarsal phalangeal joint) are called sesmoids and help the tendon that passes through that area to function properly. These two sesmoid bones are identified as the tibial and fibular sesmoids. Patients rarely notice these bones unless they are injured. High impact activities like marching, running, and jumping are common things that can injure the sesmoids. However, poor shoegear, foot structure, and trauma (falls, twisting the foot, etc) can also harm these bones. If you have pain and swelling under your big toe joint, it is important to get it checked out. Give us a call! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580