Tailor’s bunion, also known as bunionette, is an abnormal bony bump that forms on the outside of the foot of the small toe. Tailor’s bunion is similar to a bunion, or hallux valgus, which forms on the big toe.
Tailor’s bunion is commonly caused by footwear problems. Tight fitting shoes, such as high heels, can cause pressure on the bones and tendons of the small toe, causing Tailor’s bunion. The condition is more common in women than men for this reason.
Tailor’s bunion can also develop as a result of an inherited structural defect in the foot.
Symptoms of Tailor’s bunion will include a bulging bump on the outside of the small toe. Pain will vary from person to person and depend on the severity of the condition. In some cases, patients will be unable to place weight on the affected foot, limiting their ability to walk.
Since the pain from a Tailor’s bunion is always aggravated by shoe wear, the symptoms will often depend on the type and size of shoes worn. Skin irritations, including corns and calluses may form where the foot rubs against the shoe.
Your doctor will generally diagnose claw toe with a simple physical exam. In some cases, X-rays might be necessary.
Mild cases of Tailor’s bunion should first be treated using proper footwear, pads and shoe inserts to reduce stress on the bunion and relieve pain.
In more severe cases, the doctors at The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy may recommend surgery to repair Tailor’s bunion. This may include repairing or removing the bones, tendons and tissue of the small toe