These are not merely unsightly bumps on the sides of the foot. Although typically painful with redness and inflammation, these condition can have no symptoms for many years. During this time, the damage is being done as one of the most important joints in the foot become deteriorated and worn away. In the meantime, the cartilage is progressively eroded as the deformity continues to grow and pain usually follows. However, often the most disturbing aspect of this problem is the aesthetic appearance of the foot and inability to wear the desired shoes.

Conservative treatment often includes wearing silicone shields, wide unfashionable shoes and occasionally injections of anti-inflammatory medication. Unfortunately, since this these are fixed structural deformities, conservative care can only go so far and surgery is generally recommended. Most bunions / bunionettes become painful and irritate the foot inside shoes at some point and being proactive at preventing further deterioration is usually the best decision.