Sesamoiditis is one of the most common forms of injuries, which include swelling, pain, and bruising of the toes, and even facing difficulty in flexing the toes. If you have sesamoid pain, then running or walking without the proper footwear can be of great trouble. This article is focused on helping you find the best shoes for sesamoid pain.

Sesamoid pain is a frequent issue troubling athletes, fitness freaks, and sportspersons. The pain is caused by a slight inflammation of the tendon in a part of the foot. The best way to treat this condition is by shifting to proper running shoes. We will elaborate on how you can best deal with sesamoid pain using proper shoes and what qualities they must have.
Here we have listed 5 of the best running shoes usually recommended for people with sesamoid pain. Go through the list, pick the one that best suits you, and keep your feet safe from the annoying pain.
In A Hurry? Let’s Cut The Chase
If you are in a hurry and want to just buy the best running shoe for sesamoid pain, think no more and choose the shoe given here in this section. In our in-depth review, this is the shoe that we found the best.
- Lightweight dual-density Ultra Go outsole with comfort pillar technology
Best Running Shoes For Sesamoid Pain – In a Glance
Why Do Sesamoiditis Require Special Shoes?
Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the tendons surrounding the sesamoid bones. A sesamoid bone is found in the ball of the foot under the big toe. This bone and the tendons help you to move the toe and help you walk or run. It helps to bear the weight that is placed on the ball of the foot during any kind of movement or activity.
Sesamoid injuries can happen to the bone or the tendons and tissues surrounding it. They can result from running or other sports activities. People with high arch feet are also vulnerable to sesamoid pain.
Another major cause of sesamoid pain is wearing high-heeled shoes. This is why wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause unbearable pain in the feet at times. Apart from rest, therapy, and medications, if prescribed by the doctor, wearing comfortable shoes with a cushioned insole and low heels can help.
There are several benefits to wearing comfortable shoes. They help to reduce the pain and discomfort and also prevent further occurrence of sesamoid pain in the future.
Important Things to Consider While Choosing Special Running Shoes for Sesamoiditis
Since there are tons of shoes available in the market from a variety of brands, it may be difficult for you to understand which ones to choose for the best results. Not all running shoes are meant to cure sesamoid pain.
You must know about the criteria to look for while choosing special running shoes for sesamoiditis. Here are some of the most important things to consider while buying running shoes.
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Cushioning In The Heels
While the shoes must have low heels, they should also have an optimum amount of cushioning in the heel area. It helps to support the feet, especially the heel, for maximum comfort. Thus, it is necessary to buy shoes with soft cushioning inside.
Supportive Outsoles
The running shoes must have proper outsoles with better grip and anti-skid qualities to prevent slipping, tripping over, and such accidents. They help you have better control and traction on the surface you are walking or running on, irrespective of the terrain.
Wide Toe Box
The running shoes must have wide toe boxes to support the foot’s anatomy. It helps you spread your toes properly inside the shoes without feeling cramped up. Tight shoes with a narrow toe box can result in severe pain.
Size
The most important thing to consider while choosing the correct shoes for sesamoid pain is getting the right size. Ill-fitting shoes can hurt your feet, making them feel cramped and result in sesamoiditis. Wearing shoes of the right size is the best way to avoid foot pain.
When you look for shoes in the store, always check the fittings. Move around in them for a while to ensure things are comfortable. In case of discomfort, reconsider your choice.
Zero Heel to Toe Drop
The heels and toes of your feet must be aligned in the same plane. You running shoes must have zero difference in height between the heel and the toes.
Top 5 Running Shoes for Sesamoid Pain
1. Sketchers Performance Go Walk Sneakers
This is one of the best shoes that you can choose to cure sesamoid pain. They are great for walking, brisk walking, jogging, and casual running.
The material of the shoes is breathable, which keeps your feet comfortable all the time. It doesn’t let your feet sweat even after prolonged use, and prevents the growth of bacteria inside. This leads to fewer odours inside the shoe.
The best part of these shoes is that they have a specially designed midsole that provides the best cushioning. It helps in eliminating sesamoid pain and prevents it too from further occurrence.
The mesh upper body and the rubber outsole make the shoes very light so that you can wear them for a long distance without feeling tired. In short, these shoes are extremely comfortable on the feet and will take care of your sesamoid pain.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight.
- Grips well on all terrains.
- Comfortable cushioning inside the shoes.
- Breathable material keeping feet dry and odor-free.
Cons:
- The toe box area can be widened.
2. New Balance Fresh Foam Running Shoes
Apart from the great looks of these shoes, the best thing about them is that they help to cure sesamoid pain with such ease. They make your walking or running experience better each time by providing your feet with the utmost comfort and support they need.
It does not unnecessarily burden your feet and make them feel heavy. The synthetic material used to create the shoes makes them lightweight as well as durable. The rubber outsoles provide great traction and control. They won’t let you trip over or slip on the ground, regardless of the terrain you are moving on.
They provide great control on wet as well as rugged surfaces. Walk or run with absolute confidence when you slip on these running shoes. The insoles are manufactured with gel, and are removable, in case you wish to replace them with something better.
Along with perfect fitting, you can expect perfect cushioning because of the padding. The support that these shoes provide helps you balance the toes and the ball of your feet. In short, these shoes provide true comfort to your feet and helps in dealing with sesamoid pain.
Pros:
- Very comfortable for the feet.
- Available in attractive designs.
- The insole is removable.
- Outsoles provide great grip and traction.
- Perfect cushioning inside the shoes.
- Lightweight
- Good for wide feet.
Cons:
- May not be highly durable.
3. Mizuno Wave Inspire Shoes
Mizuno sneakers are the best shoes made for athletes and runners. While talking about the best shoes for sesamoid pain, this one surely makes it to the list. This is just perfect for dealing with sesamoid pain and preventing it from making a comeback. These shoes are made of mesh material which makes them both lightweight and breathable.
The air can pass through the shoes, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Even after walking for long distances and going through high physical activity like running, your feet won’t sweat. This eliminates bacteria and odor formation inside the shoes.
The outsoles provide the best traction for all terrains. You can never even think of losing grip on the ground. The shoes have been designed to keep your feet dry in the summer months and warm in the winter months.
The design is just tailor-made to deal with sesamoid pain. The top arch is low and provides great stability during movement. It keeps the feet flexible and eliminates excess pressure and discomfort. The cushioning effect takes care of the pain and comforts your feet every time. Therefore, these shoes have earned rave reviews from all quarters for their design and comfort.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Breathable material keeps feet cool and dry
- Feet stay warm in winter
- Design is good for support in case of sesamoid pain.
- Cushioning provides excellent support and comfort.
Cons:
- Long use can cause a bit of stiffness.
4. Orthofeet Orthopedic Athletic Shoes
Orthofeet Orthopedic Shoes have been designed keeping in mind the necessity of full support to athlete’s feet. These shoes are specially designed to take care of several feet issues such as sesamoid pain. The cushioned inner sole is the best you can get to provide comfort to your feet all day.
They are made of anti-microbial foam. In spite of long walks, the shoes will still feel very comfortable because of the cushioned insole. They are made to give you completely painless walking or running experiences.
Needless to say, they are good for eliminating sesamoid pain. The toe box area is kept wide to avoid cramping your feet inside the shoes. The design of the shoes removes extra pressure on the toe and eliminates pain.
Lastly, the shoes have breathable material which keeps the feet dry and cool even after long hours of use. It does not let odour and bacteria build up inside. In short, these shoes highlight both comfort and performance and can be a brilliant choice for sesamoid pain.
Pros:
- Comfortable fitting
- Perfect amount of cushioning
- Keeps the feet dry and cool for long
- Breathable fabric material
- Wide toe box area
- Outsole provides great traction
- Velcro strap fastening.
Cons:
- Heavier in weight.
- Not available in many colours.
5. Merrell Trail Glove
Since sesamoid pain requires zero heels to toe drop, these shoes have been made to give you that barefoot feel. They have been created to deal better with feet issues such as sesamoid pain.
The design of the shoes allows you to keep your feet flat even when you run. They are the perfect choice for running as well as walking.
The cushioning inside the shoes made of foam gives brilliant support and comfort to the feet. You can forget all about your pain once you slip them on. If you are vulnerable to injuries, the Merrell Trail Glove shoes keep you safe and protected.
The material of the shoes is soft and breathable. It helps to regulate air circulation inside the shoes. This keeps your feet dry and eliminates the problem of sweat even after long hours.
The anti-microbial properties inside the material and soles keep the feet fresh all day. This one is a very good choice to deal with sesamoid pain.
Pros:
- Made from breathable fabric, they are very comfortable.
- Durable.
- Great cushioning inside the shoes.
- Toe box area is comfortable.
Cons:
- Some people have found them a bit on the heavier side.
Learn More About Sesamoiditis and Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Running Shoes for Sesamoid Pain
Here are some of the frequently asked questions regarding running shoes for sesamoid pain:-
What Are Sesamoid Bones?
Sesamoid bones are embedded in tendons and are present under the big toe joint in the ball of your foot. They are pea-shaped and help to balance the pressure on the ball of the foot while running or walking.
What Causes Sesamoiditis, and How Severe Is It?
Overuse of the tendons during heightened physical activity leads to sesamoiditis. Accidents from running or sports activities can cause immense pressure on the ball of the feet and cause the tendons to get inflamed.
Often, ill-fitting shoes and high-heeled ones can also result in sesamoid pain. The pain can start from being mild and slowly become unbearable when you put the foot down.
How To Understand If You Have Sesamoid Pain?
Sesamoid pain occurs below the big toe. When you start experiencing a throbbing pain under the big toe joints, it is a symptom of sesamoiditis. The problem at first can be mild, but then it increases in intensity.
How To Heal Sesamoiditis and prevent it?
The best way to cure and prevent sesamoiditis is to wear soft and comfortable shoes that fit you properly, and ensure that the heels are low. The shoes must have foam padding and cushion for support and protection.
When Do You Need To Change Your Present Shoes?
You need to change your present shoes urgently if they are smaller in size, have a narrow toe box, or are high heeled and lack cushioning and support.
Over To You
As an athlete or sportsperson, you cannot think of settling for anything but the best for your feet. By now, you know the kind of running shoes that can not only ease your sesamoid pain but prevent them from occurring frequently. They keep you away from injuries and safeguard your feet while providing immense comfort.
You must have understood the types of shoes you need to purchase and what to look for while searching for them. You can go through the shoes listed or find out ones that match the criteria explained.
Thereafter, you can decide which would suit you the best. Never let injuries keep you groaning and confined to the bed.
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