From the Research
Treatment for bunionettes typically begins with conservative measures, such as wearing wider shoes and using padding or cushioning to reduce pressure, before considering surgery. The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, a minimally invasive osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal without internal fixation using burrs is a viable alternative for symptomatic tailor's bunion deformity.
Initial treatments may include:
- Wearing wider shoes with a soft upper material to reduce pressure on the bunionette
- Using padding or cushioning to protect the area from friction
- Applying ice to reduce inflammation
- Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (400-800mg three times daily) or naproxen (220-500mg twice daily) to manage pain and swelling
- Custom orthotic inserts to redistribute pressure away from the bunionette
- Corticosteroid injections into the inflamed area for temporary relief
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen foot muscles and improve joint mobility
If conservative treatments fail after 6-12 months, surgical options, such as minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy without fixation, may be considered 1. This approach has been shown to have comparable clinical outcomes to standard surgical procedures, with the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. Recovery from surgery typically takes 6-12 weeks. Proper shoe selection is crucial for both treatment and prevention of bunionettes, as they form due to a combination of genetic factors affecting foot structure and external pressures from footwear.