Tailor's bunion

Tailor's bunion, or Bunionette, is a condition caused as a result of inflammation of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. It is mostly similar to a bunion (the same type of ailment affecting the big toe). It is called Tailor's Bunion because it was thought that tailors sat crosslegged and caused this protrusion on the outside aspect of the foot. It is usually characterized by inflammation, pain and redness of the little toe.

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The deformity received its name centuries ago, when tailors sat cross-legged all day with the outside edge of their feet rubbing on the ground. This constant rubbing led to a painful enlargement at the base of the little toe.

Often a tailor's bunion is caused by a faulty mechanical structure of the foot. The fifth metatarsal bone starts to protrude outward, while the little toe moves inward. This change in alignment creates an enlargement on the outside of the foot.

Tailor's bunion is easily diagnosed because the protrusion is visually apparent. X-rays may be ordered to help the orthopaedist to find out the severity of the deformity.

Treatment

Some of the non-surgical therapies includes.

1) Shoe modifications - Wearing shoes that have a wide toe box, and avoiding those with pointed toes or high heels.

2) Oral medications - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may help in relieving the pain and inflammation.

2) Injection therapy - Injections of corticosteroid are commonly used to treat the inflammation.

3) Padding - Bunionette pads placed over the affected area may help reduce pain.

4) Icing - An ice pack may be applied to reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgery is often considered when pain continues for a long period with no improvement in these non-surgical therapies.