Bunionettes are progressive, meaning that they develop over time instead of appearing suddenly. A bunionette will usually develop in stages:
- A small bump forms on the outside of the foot or the little toe bends inward slightly.
- The ligaments that connect the muscles of the toe to the metatarsal bone and the tendons that connect the muscles to one another become stretched, moving the little toe closer to the fourth toe.
- The new position of the toe causes extra pressure on the joint where the little toe meets the foot, the metatarsophalangeal joint. This causes the bump to enlarge.
- The fifth toe becomes so close to the fourth toe that the toes rub together, resulting in the development of corns. Calluses form on the bunionette bump due to rubbing from shoes.
Later stage bunionettes tend to be more painful, and may require treatment. Learn more about bunionette treatment »