A prominence on the outside of the foot, at the base of the little toe, is called a bunionette, or tailors bunion.
A bunionette is a visible deformity, an enlargement of the outer part of the joint.
What are the causes of Bunionette?
Bunionettes are caused over time (even several years) by abnormal pressure and rubbing on the toe joint. A major cause is wearing shoes that are too tight and that tend to squeeze the toes together. “Tailor’s bunions” are much more common in women than in men (from wearing high heels), but any shoes that are pointed can cause the condition. It can also run in families and may be associated with a bunion of the big toe.
A bunionette is a lump that is a visible deformity. Over time, this lump is subject to increased pressure and rubbing against the shoe, forming a callous. Eventually this can become irritated and painful, causing pain that makes walking and standing difficult. Corns may develop, and abnormalities may develop in the other toes as well. Finding shoes that one can stand to walk in can also be a challenge.
Bunionette Treatment?
Bunion treatment without surgery may include one or more of the following:
• Roomier shoes
• Bunionette pad to reduce pressure and rubbing
If these methods fail then bunionnette cerrective surgery may be suggested. Sometimes just shaving a piece of bone off will make a difference but in my experience, better results are obtained by breaking and realigning the 5th metatarsal bone . This leaves a narrower foot that rubs less on the shoe. This minimises the chance of it coming back. We use a small screw to hold the bones together. The bone then mends around the screw in 4-5 weeks. For that period a protective sandal is needed.
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