The sesamoid bones’ smooth surface enables tendons to glide over them. The tendons allow the muscles to function properly, are key in weight bearing exercise and are needed to move the big toe. When the tendons surrounding the sesamoids get inflamed or irritated, this is termed sesamoiditis, a type of tendinitis. Sesamoiditis occurs more frequently in runners, ballet dancers and participants in some team sports. When sportspeople damage the sesamoid bones, it is referred to as turf toe injury because the toe is bent backwards. Long-term wear and tear to the big toe joint can lead to big toe arthritis, which in turn results in pain in the area around the sesamoid bones.