Tailor’s Bunions

Small but painful

Tailor’s bunions are also called bunionettes because they are smaller than regular bunions. The tailor’s bunion got its name from clothing tailors. Many years ago, the way a tailor sat to work irritated a bunion on their small toe. Tailor’s bunions can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area.

Tailor’s bunions are bony bumps that form on the outside of your foot, at the base of your little toe. The medical term for a Tailor’s bunion is “exostosis.” A Tailor’s bunion forms when the little toe bends toward the big toe, and the metatarsal bone of the foot moves outward. This causes the bump to form on the outside of your foot. Tailor’s bunions can be painful. Tailor’s bunions are more common in women than men. Tailor’s bunions most often happen to people between the ages of 30 and 60.

There are several things that can increase your risk for developing a Tailor’s bunion, including:

  • Wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area
  • Having a family history of Tailor’s bunions
  • Having certain medical conditions, such as arthritis


Let Us Take Care of Your Feet

If you have a Tailor’s bunion, you may experience pain and inflammation. Tailor’s bunions can make it difficult to walk or wear shoes. If you have a Tailor’s bunion, you should see podiatrist. Tailor’s bunions can be treated with nonsurgical methods, such as wearing shoes that fit properly, over-the-counter pain relievers, and orthotics. If nonsurgical methods do not relieve your symptoms, you may need surgery. Contact our office today by calling (503) 925-6772! Our Portland podiatrists are here to help you find relief!

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