Bunionette (tailor’s bunion)

A bunionette is a common condition defined by the prominent bump on the outside of the foot at the base of the fifth toe. 

Symptoms:
The primary symptom of a bunionette is pain localizing to this prominence with shoe wear. This too can be associated with change in the ligament supporting  the foot.  Some individuals are born with supple ligaments allowing the foot to widen his weight is applied to the foot. Other individuals can develop changes in the supporting structures over time.

Diagnosis:
Bunionette’s are diagnosed through history, physical examination and weight bearing xray. 

Treatment:
The course of treatment for bunionette non-operatively or operatively and should be determined by your orthopaedic surgeon after a diagnosis is made.  Often non-operative treatment includes wearing comfortable shoes with adequate width of the toe box.  Your orthopaedic surgeon may recommend operative treatment when pain is not relieved by appropriate non-operative management.  There are several techniques for bunionette correction and your surgeon will determine the appropriate procedure based upon a number of factors specific to your case.

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