Saying When: Deciding On Bunionette Surgery

Your hairdresser is trimming off your long hair an inch at a time, waiting for you to “say when” the length is just where you want it. Or your server asks if you want parmesan on your lasagna and starts cranking the grater—“just say when.” How do you know when enough is enough? Deciding whether or not to have bunionette surgery is one of those tricky moments: is the limitation or pain bad enough that you are ready to take that step?

A bunionette is similar to a bunion, except it is the joint at the base of your smallest toe that is sticking out to the side—not the big toe joint. If you’re at the point that you are considering surgery, you probably have already tried conservative treatments. You bought roomier shoes; you found padding to put on the joint to cushion it from friction; you may even have a pair of custom orthotics to correct structural imbalances in your feet. But your little toe joint keeps moving outward, your foot can’t fit in your shoe anymore, and it hurts. Maybe it’s time to “say when.”

Treating bunions (and bunionettes) is one of our specialties, but if conservative treatments haven’t worked, don’t be afraid of surgery: we are experts at that, too. We will explain the specific type of operation we think will help you best, and answer all your questions. We will hold to the highest surgical standards before, during, and after your procedure. Finally, we will guide you through your recovery, including care of the incision and when you can start putting weight on your foot again.

Had enough of the pain in your little toe? Give Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle Center a call at (303) 423-2520 and set up a time to come in, so we can evaluate your foot and discuss your options. You can also schedule an appointment at our Wheat Ridge, Golden, Evergreen, or Granby, CO, offices online. We’ll help you decide if now is the time to put your pain to rest for good.

Author
Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle Center

You Might Also Enjoy...

My Neuroma Is Slowing Me Down

My Neuroma Is Slowing Me Down

Struggling with foot pain from a neuroma? Discover why this condition may be slowing you down and coping strategies in our latest blog. Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding How We Grade Your Sprained Ankle

Understanding How We Grade Your Sprained Ankle

Ankle sprains may be common, but that doesn’t mean they’re not serious injuries. Grading a sprain helps your doctor map out a treatment plan that’s focused on your recovery. Here’s what those grades mean.

Will Morton’s Neuroma Resolve on Its Own?

Morton’s neuroma, a podiatric condition that causes pain in the ball of your foot, can make walking difficult. If you stay off the foot, will it resolve on its own? Generally, no, but treatments can be very effective.
What Are My Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis?

What Are My Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis?

Getting out of bed in the morning can be hard enough, but when you add searing pain in your feet, your day isn’t off to a good start. Odds are the pain stems from plantar fasciitis, and there are treatment options.