What is a Bunionette?
Causes of a Bunionette
The main cause of bunionettes is wearing tight, narrow, and high-heeled shoes that compress the toes and exert excessive pressure while walking. Other causes may be genetics, loose ligaments in your foot, tight calf muscle, and abnormal positioning of the bones in your little toe. The condition generally starts when you are young and becomes worse with time.
Symptoms of a Bunionette
Common symptoms include:
- A swollen bump at the base of your little toe
- Pain and redness at the site of the enlargement
- Pain when the bump rubs against your shoe
Diagnosis of a Bunionette
A doctor will diagnose your bunionette based on the following:
- A physical examination of your foot
- X-rays to determine bone and soft tissue damage
Non-Surgical Bunionette Treatment
Non-surgical treatment options for a bunionette include:
- Medication to help alleviate pain and associated symptoms
- Ice packs to reduce inflammation
- Wearing wide-toed and flexible shoes that fit properly to reduce toe compression
- Using padding to relieve pain and prevent the bunion from rubbing against your shoe
- Performing routine calf stretches
Your doctor might administer corticosteroid injections or recommend custom-made shoe inserts to cushion the bunionette.
Surgical Bunionette Treatment
Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment methods have failed to alleviate pain and swelling and the bunionette has grown large. Bunionette surgery is an outpatient surgical procedure that involves shaving off part of the bony lump and realigning the displaced fifth metatarsal to restore normal foot function.
Preparation for Bunionette Surgery
Your doctor will conduct a detailed medical evaluation prior to your surgery to rule out the presence of any conditions that might interfere with treatment.
- Several preoperative tests, such as blood and urine tests and other studies, may be ordered to check for any abnormalities.
- Foot X-rays may be ordered to plan the surgery properly and also to check for the presence of any bone abnormalities.
Bunionette Surgical Procedure
This surgical procedure is generally conducted on an outpatient basis.
- You will be administered anesthesia as needed.
- The bony protrusion will then be trimmed away by the surgeon.
- Your fifth metatarsal bone will be realigned, and part of the bone will be removed, if necessary, to point the toe outwards in the proper direction.
- A screw and plate combination may be used to hold the realigned bone in place.
Post-Operative Care for Bunionette Surgery
- You should keep your foot elevated as much as possible for the first few days after surgery, applying ice as needed to relieve pain and swelling.
- You may require a cast or a specialized boot to keep your foot steady for the first few days. Your doctor can prescribe the use of special orthotic supports or insoles for comfort.
- Your doctor may give you pain relief medications if needed.
- Your doctor may recommend physical therapy and a rehabilitation protocol as part of the recovery process.
Side Effects of Bunionette Surgery
Bunionette surgery is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, there may be some minor risks and complications, such as:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Infection
- Anesthetic complications
- Damage to nerves and blood vessels
- Bleeding or blood clots
Bunionette Prevention
To prevent a bunionette, you need to address the risk factors that contribute to its development. While your family history and your occupation may be out of your control, you can make some lifestyle adjustments to prevent a bunionette from forming. Below are a couple of tips to help lower the chances of developing a bunionette:
- Avoid wearing narrow shoes, pointy shoes, or high heels on a regular basis.
- Visit a foot specialist if you notice structural abnormalities in your foot.
Why Choose Dr. Gary Driver for Bunionette Treatment in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?
Dr. Gary Driver offers personalized treatment and effective surgical procedures to help patients overcome foot deformities. Here are a few reasons why you can trust Dr. Gary Driver for bunionette treatment:
- Advanced Treatment Techniques: Dr. Gary Driver uses advanced techniques to treat bunionettes. With state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and specialized treatment methods, Dr. Gary Driver does all he can to ensure bunionette patients make full recovery.
- Patient-Centered Care: Dr. Gary Driver takes a flexible, understanding approach to medical care. He ensures patients receive personalized treatment with a focus on integrity and professionalism.
- Convenient Locations: Dr. Gary Driver’s services are currently available in two locations: Fort Worth and Weatherford. You can book an appointment at whichever clinic is closest to you.
- Fellowship-Trained Foot and Ankle Surgeon: Dr. Gary Driver is a board-certified, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon. He completed his fellowship in Roanoke, Virginia, at one of the best foot and ankle fellowship programs in the country.
Get Effective Bunionette Treatment in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX
Unaddressed foot problems can lead to major complications. Dr. Gary Driver offers reliable bunionette treatment and cost-effective surgical procedures to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Schedule an appointment at his Fort Worth or Weatherford location today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does bunionette surgery cost in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?
The cost of bunionette surgery in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX, depends on various factors, including the severity of the condition, treatment required before the surgery, post-surgical care, and insurance coverage. Dr. Gary Driver can give you a more detailed cost estimate during your initial consultation.
Does insurance cover bunionette surgery?
Most insurance plans cover bunionette surgery. However, the extent of the coverage may depend on your plan. Please check with your insurance provider to learn more about your coverage.
How long does it take to recover from bunionette surgery?
It can take up to a year to heal completely from bunionette surgery. Swelling is usually the last thing to improve. Physical therapy may be recommended in some cases.
Will a bunionette come back after surgery?
In most cases, a bunionette will not come back if the surgery is done right and the underlying causes of the bunionette are addressed. Patients must avoid all risk factors, such as wearing narrow shoes, to prevent a bunionette from recurring.