Tailor’s Bunion Marion, OH

Tailor’s Bunion

Tailor’s bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bump that forms along the side of the 5th metatarsal bone, the bone at the bottom of your little toe. Though not as common as bunions, which occur on the inside of the foot along the big toe, tailor bunions are similar in causes and symptoms.

The most common cause of a tailor’s bunion is direct pressure to the metatarsal bone. This pressure can stem from improper footwear that is too narrow or tight or may be due to an abnormal shape or position of the metatarsal bone. Patients may also inherit a misalignment within the bone structure of their feet that makes them prone to developing a tailor’s bunion. Other causes may include loose ligaments within the foot, tight calf muscles, or feet that lean outward.

Tailor’s bunions progress gradually and generally start with a small bump over the side of the 5th metatarsal bone or near the base of your pinkie toe. If left untreated, this bump will increase in size over time due to inflammation and cause great pain.

Chronic rubbing of the bump against the inside of your shoe may cause the skin to become irritated and red, in some cases a bursa, or small fluid-filled sac may also form and develop into bursitis due to constant pressure and inflammation. The area of the skin may also harden and form a callus.

Treatment for a tailor’s bunion begins with non-surgical options such as using over-the-counter medication, orthotic pads, and cushions, as well as shoe modifications to avoid placing pressure on the bunion. If pain persists, injection therapy may be used to help manage more painful symptoms and reduce swelling. It is important to note that nonsurgical treatment options will not remove the bump but can significantly reduce and even eliminate the painful symptoms.

If your condition is severe and does not respond well to conservative treatment options, surgery may be considered. Surgical procedures designed to treat a tailor’s bunion include shaving the bump down or repositioning the fifth metatarsal bone into an ideal position and securing it with screws or plates.

The length of your recovery will vary depending on the procedure performed. Generally, patients can expect a few months of keeping weight off the foot and using a walker, crutch, or boot to help protect the foot as it heals. Physical therapy may also be needed to help strengthen your foot muscles.

For more information on tailor’s bunions or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today at (740) 383-5115.

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