Bunionette Correction: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Do you have a bump near your pinky toe? Does it hurt when you walk or wear shoes? That bump might be a bunionette.

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we help many people with this. Our doctor, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, is a foot and ankle surgeon who will guide you through your choices.

Let’s learn what bunionette correction is and how to feel better.

What Is a Bunionette?

A bunionette, also called a Tailor’s Bunion, is a small bump on the side of your foot near your little toe. It happens when the bone under your pinky toe pushes outward.

Causes include:

  • Tight shoes

  • Flat feet

  • The way you walk

  • Family foot shape

Over time, the bump can hurt and swell. You may notice redness and pain while wearing shoes.

What Are the Symptoms?

You may see or feel:

  • A hard bump on the outside of your foot

  • Soreness or burning near your pinky toe

  • Swelling or redness

  • Pain with shoes or walking

These signs may get worse if you ignore them.

What Is Bunionette Correction?

Bunionette correction means treating the bump and easing pain. There are two types of correction:

  • Non-surgical care

  • Surgical care

Doctors often try non-surgical methods first.

Non-Surgical Bunionette Correction

Most people start with these simple steps:

  • Wear wider shoes

  • Add padding to protect the bump

  • Use arch supports

  • Ice the bump

  • Take over-the-counter pain medicine

  • Try foot stretches

These steps won’t remove the bump, but they can help with pain and swelling.

When Surgery Is the Best Option

Surgery is used when pain is bad or daily life is hard.

You may need surgery if:

  • Your bump keeps growing

  • Walking hurts a lot

  • You can’t wear normal shoes

  • Other treatments don’t help

In surgery, the doctor fixes the bone and removes the bump.

Healing After Surgery

After surgery, you may need to:

  • Wear a special shoe or boot

  • Keep your foot up

  • Rest often

  • Avoid sports or long walks for a while

Most people feel better in a few weeks. Full healing may take 6–8 weeks.

Can You Prevent a Bunionette?

Yes! You can lower your risk with these tips:

  • Choose shoes with wide toe areas

  • Skip high heels and tight shoes

  • Use shoe pads or inserts

  • Stretch your feet daily

Taking care of your feet can help stop bumps before they start.

How Our Clinic Can Help

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we listen to your foot concerns. Our team is friendly, kind, and here to help.

Dr. Kris A. DiNucci takes time to explain your options. You’ll learn what is best for you.

Our Scottsdale, AZ office is easy to reach and ready to care for your feet.

FAQs

1. Can a bunionette go away without surgery?

No. The bump stays, but you can ease the pain with care.

2. Is surgery painful?

Most people say it’s mild. Medicine and rest help you heal fast.

3. How do I know what kind of treatment I need?

Our doctor will check your foot and give you the best advice.

Conclusion

Bunionette correction helps many people walk without pain. You may not need surgery. But if you do, it can fix the problem for good.

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, our goal is to help you feel better and walk with ease.

Contact us today to ask questions or book a visit. Use our Contact Us or Request an Appointment page on our website.

 

We’re here to help your feet feel happy again!

May 3, 2025