A Tailor’s Bunion is the bunion that occurs at the base of the little toe. It is called a Tailor’s bunion because it used to be assumed that it was more common in the Tailor’s who used to sit cross legged while they did their work. This sitting position put a lot of pressure on the outside of the foot wear this small bunion occurs. It is also called a bunionette as it is widely considered to be the smaller cousin of the typical bunions that occur at the base of the big toe.
The cause of a Tailors bunion is most likely die to poorly fitting footwear causing pressure on the fifth toe in those who a hereditary predisposition. The symptoms are an enlargement of the bone at the base of the first toe that may become inflamed and be painful when wearing shoes that press on it.
To treat a Tailor’s bunion make sure you are wearing roomy, comfortable shoes with a wide toe box can alleviate pressure on the painful area and provide relief. Barefoot can be best or something like the Archies will allow you to walk around without any pressure on it. Any shoe that puts any pressure on the joint are best avoided. High heel shoes will also increase the pressure on the problem and are best avoided. There are protective pads and corrective pads can help reduce friction and protect the affected area. The pads can be placed on or around the enlarged joint to straighten the toe and protect the bunion for friction.
If these approaches with good shoes and different paddings are not helpful, then surgery is really the only other option to get rid of a Tailors bunion.