Sesamoid fractures

[Tina]

Fractures may occur in the two small round bones at the base of the big toe (sesamoid bones).
(See also Overview of Fractures.)
Sesamoid bones may fracture while running, hiking, or participating in sports that involve coming down too hard on the ball of the foot (such as basketball and tennis).
Usually, if the sesamoid bones are broken, walking causes a deep achy or sharp pain in the ball of the foot behind the big toe. The area may be swollen and red.
If doctors suspect a sesamoid fracture, x-rays are taken. If results x-rays are unclear, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be done.