GLOSSARY

Sesamoid bones are small, rounded bones that form within tendons where they pass over a joint.
The name comes from their resemblance to a sesame seed.

Examples

• Patella: the largest sesamoid bone in the body, within the quadriceps tendon.
• Sesamoids of the big toe: two small bones beneath the head of the first metatarsal.
• Pisiform: a carpal bone lying within the tendon of a wrist flexor.

Function