Sesamoiditis refers to inflammation of the sesamoid bones, two small, pea-shaped bones located beneath the head of the first metatarsal, just behind the big toe. These bones are embedded within the flexor hallucis brevis tendon and act as a fulcrum, enhancing the mechanical advantage of the big toe’s push-off during movement. When irritated or inflamed, these sesamoids can cause pain directly under the big toe joint, particularly with activities involving forefoot pressure. This article guides using taping as a supportive measure to manage sesamoiditis pain.
Why Taping for Sesamoiditis?
Taping the foot for sesamoiditis aims to reduce mechanical stress on the inflamed sesamoid bones. The primary goal is to offload pressure from this area by altering weight distribution across the forefoot. By limiting excessive big toe motion, taping creates a more stable environment for healing.
The tape provides external support, preventing the big toe from extending too far upwards (dorsiflexion) or flexing too far downwards (plantarflexion) during activities. This restriction decreases compressive and shearing forces that aggravate the sesamoids. Taping can reduce pain during daily activities, allowing inflamed tissues to recover.
Preparing for Taping
Proper skin preparation ensures the tape adheres effectively and minimizes irritation. The skin around the big toe and forefoot should be clean, dry, and free of lotions or oils. Any hair in the area should be trimmed or shaved for better adhesion and comfortable removal.
Rigid athletic tape is commonly used for sesamoiditis taping due to its strong, non-stretchy nature. A pre-wrap material can be applied to protect sensitive skin, though this may slightly reduce the tape’s rigidity. Before applying any tape, check for open wounds, blisters, or existing skin sensitivities.
Taping Techniques for Sesamoiditis
Effective taping for sesamoiditis focuses on restricting big toe motion or lifting the metatarsal head to offload the sesamoids. One common approach is a modified “turf toe” technique, which limits big toe dorsiflexion.
Begin by applying an anchor strip of 1-inch rigid athletic tape around the midfoot, just behind the ball of the foot, ensuring it is not too tight. Next, create a “stirrup” by placing a tape strip on top of the big toe, wrapping it under, and bringing it back up to the top. This stirrup should gently pull the big toe downwards (into slight plantarflexion). Apply two to three more stirrup strips, overlapping each by about half the width of the tape, moving slightly back towards the foot’s arch.
Another technique creates arch support to indirectly offload the sesamoids. Start with an anchor strip around the midfoot. Then, apply tape strips from the outside edge of the foot, across the arch, and up towards the inside edge, pulling the arch upwards.
To specifically offload the sesamoids, apply a small, non-stretch “sling” or “basketweave” directly behind the big toe joint. This involves placing short, overlapping tape strips in a fan-like pattern, originating from the anchor strip and extending just behind the metatarsal head. These strips should gently lift the area immediately proximal to the sesamoids, reducing direct pressure. Always ensure the tape is applied smoothly without wrinkles and does not cause numbness, tingling, or increased pain, which indicates it is too tight.
After Taping: Care and Considerations
Once applied, tape can typically be worn for one to three days, depending on activity and skin sensitivity. Monitor the taped area for any signs of discomfort or irritation. Remove the tape immediately if there is numbness, tingling, throbbing, toe discoloration, or increased pain.
Skin irritation, such as redness, itching, or blistering, also requires immediate tape removal. To remove the tape safely, gently peel it off in the direction of hair growth, holding the skin taut. A skin-friendly adhesive remover can dissolve any remaining residue. While taping provides temporary relief, it is a supportive measure, not a cure. If pain persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and treatment.