At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we find many patients are not familiar with tailor’s bunions, also called bunionettes. This type of bunion develops at the base of the little toe at the end of the fifth metatarsal head. It gets its name from what was once an occupational hazard for tailors. Long ago, tailors would sit cross-legged all day while doing their work. The constant rubbing of the outside of the little toe on the ground would result in a painful bump forming at the base of the toe. Although less common than traditional bunions, which manifest on the outside of the big toe, tailor’s bunions have similar symptoms, including pain, redness, and swelling at the site of the protrusion.

Getting Relief from Pain

Similar to regular bunions, tailor’s bunions cause considerable pain when they rub up against your shoes. While faulty foot structure may be the root cause of a tailor’s bunion, your shoes can play a big role in the progression of this condition. Choosing styles with a roomy, wide toe box, and avoiding high heels with pointy toe area is highly recommended. You may also want to use padding to help protect and cushion the bunionette. Over time, the constant friction from footwear may lead to secondary problems like corns.

If you believe you have a tailor’s bunion forming, it’s important you make an appointment at our Cromwell office by calling (860) 632-5499 and have it evaluated by our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas. The foot doctor may also suggest other treatment options, such as:

  • Icing
  • Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Custom orthotics

If none of these treatments are successful in relieving the discomfort of a tailor’s bunion, the podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity. As with all progressive conditions, it’s best to examine your feet regularly and report significant changes to your foot doctor promptly.

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416