A bunionette is an inflamed area at the base of the little finger caused by inward curving of the toe or accidents damaging the metatarsal bones. Non-invasive treatments such as switching to wide-toed shoes, padding, and medication are preferred over surgery.
Also known as tailor’s bursitis, a bunionette is an inflamed area found at the base of the little finger. This is in contrast to a big toe, which is usually larger and located on the big toe. In both cases, the condition involves inflammation of both the bone and surrounding tissue at the toe.
There are several reasons why bunionettes may appear. One has to do with the structure of the foot itself. If the little toe tends to curve inward, there’s a better chance that tissue and bone will become inflamed, especially if the individual wears shoes constructed with pointed toes.
A bunionette deformity can also develop from accidents that damage the metatarsal bones of the foot. When the damage causes the bones to protrude instead of sliding in the same general direction, the potential for inflammation to develop increases, especially when using any type of closed-toe footwear. In extreme cases, bunion surgery may be needed to correct the protrusion and eliminate pain.
Fortunately, many cases where a bunionette is present can be managed without resorting to surgery. In situations where the protrusion is slight, inflammation can be avoided by simply switching to shoes designed with a wide toe rather than a pointed toe. Avoiding wearing high-heeled footwear will also relieve pressure on the little toe and minimize the discomfort that accompanies inflammation.
Padding is also an important tool to relieve the pain generated by the appearance of a bunionette. When placed correctly, the light padding helps relieve abrasion on the area and minimizes the risks of swelling and inflammation. Many people use a combination of pads and square-toed shoes to help ease the discomfort of bunionettes.
When the inflammation is severe, it may be possible to get relief by applying ice directly to the bunionette. A doctor may also recommend the use of oral medications to calm the inflammation and relieve the pain that accompanies it. In severe cases, a doctor may give corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and provide some relief.
For the most part, surgery is employed only as a last resort. Healthcare providers usually prefer to resort to non-invasive forms of bunionette treatment when and as much as possible. If a combination of medications, changing the type of shoes worn, or using ice or padding from time to time can effectively contain the condition, it is possible to live with an occasional outbreak of bunionette and manage the condition with little or no pain .
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