Understanding Bunionettes and How to Treat Them

What Is a Bunionette?

A bunionette, also known as a tailor’s bunion, is a painful bump that forms on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. It happens when the fifth metatarsal bone (the long bone on the outside of your foot) starts to shift outward, causing extra pressure and friction. Over time, this pressure can lead to pain, swelling, and even calluses.

Bunionettes Surgery

Before and after photos of a bunion correction procedure.

If you’ve ever felt discomfort on the outside of your foot while walking, wearing shoes, or even just standing, you might be dealing with a bunionette. The good news? There are effective treatments available, including both non-surgical and surgical options.

Why Do Bunionettes Form?

Bunionettes can develop for a variety of reasons, including:

– Foot structure – Some people are simply born with a foot shape that makes them more likely to develop bunionettes.

– Improper footwear– Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can put extra pressure on the little toe, pushing it inward and causing the bone to shift.

– Repetitive stress – Activities that put stress on your feet, like running, dancing, or standing for long hours, can contribute to the development of a bunionette.

Symptoms of a Bunionette

The most common symptoms include:

✔ A bony bump on the outside of the foot near the little toe

✔ Redness, swelling, or irritation in the area

✔ Pain when wearing shoes or walking

✔ Calluses or thickened skin from constant friction

If left untreated, a bunionette can worsen over time, making everyday activities like walking or exercising more uncomfortable.

How Can You Treat a Bunionette?

There are several ways to relieve bunionette pain, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to medical treatments.

Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments

If your bunionette is mild, you may be able to reduce pain and discomfort with:

  1. Proper footwear – Wearing wider shoes with a roomy toe box can help take pressure off the bunionette.
  2. Padding & orthotics – Special pads or custom orthotic inserts can provide extra cushioning and support.
  3. Ice & anti-inflammatory medications– Applying ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
  4. Stretching & foot exercises – Strengthening the foot muscles and improving flexibility can prevent further issues.

Bunionettes Surgery

Dr. Jason Nowak and Dr. Garret Strand recently published an article detailing bunion correction procedure.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If conservative treatments don’t provide enough relief, surgery may be an option. At Shasta Orthopaedics Foot & Ankle Institute in Redding, CA, Dr. Garret Strand and Dr. Jason Nowak specialize in a minimally invasive bunion surgery and detailed a recent bunionette correction in a medical publication.

This advanced procedure:

  1. Corrects the position of the bone to relieve pressure
  2. Uses a small incision for minimal scarring and faster recovery
  3. Allows for immediate protective weight-bearing, so you can get back on your feet sooner

The technique improves upon older methods by providing greater stability and quicker healing, making it an excellent choice for people struggling with persistent bunionette pain.

Ready to Find Bunion Relief?

If you’re tired of dealing with foot pain and want to explore your treatment options, Dr. Garret Strand and Dr. Jason Nowak are here to help. Contact Shasta Orthopaedics Foot & Ankle Institute today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward pain-free feet!