The Clinical Anatomy of the Hallucal Sesamoids and their Attachments

Abstract

The hallucal sesamoid bones are essential, but poorly understood, features of the first, or great, toe complex. With the associated structures of the foot, collectively termed the first ray, this complex is essential for optimal foot function. Disorders of this region present symptomatically in a broad range from intermittent discomfort through to a complete inability to walk or weight-bear. Pain in this region may also be enough to interrupt sleep and a range of daily tasks. Given the perceived importance of the hallucal sesamoids to this complex, it is perhaps surprising to discover the anatomy of the hallucal sesamoids, and particularly their interaction with neighbouring tissues, is poor..