Don’t Ignore Your Bunion Pain!
Walking around with pain on the side of your big toe can cause you a lot of strife. Not only does the pain affect regular activities, but it also can change the way your shoes feel on your feet. When you sit down and remove your shoes, you might notice the pain is from a slight bulge on the side of your toe. What is it, exactly? It could be a tailor’s bunion! It forms when there is constant friction and pressure that is rubbing up against your little toe.
A tailor’s bunion is also known as a bunionette. It is a bony lump that grows on the side of the little toe. This bunion is similar to a regular bunion but is in a different location. Generally, tailor’s bunions are not as common as traditional bunions, but they aren’t outside the realm of normal, either.
Signs and Symptoms
Swelling
Growth on the side of the small toe
Redness
Discomfort wearing footwear
Causes And Risk Factors
Like a regular bunion, a tailor’s bunion is most often caused by improperly-fitting footwear. Narrow or tight footwear, especially in the shoe box, can cause pressure and friction, leading to a bunion.
Another common reason is your foot is formed in a way where the structure is compromised, causing it to grow a bunion due to improper structure.
Other causes can include:
Loose ligaments
Inverted foot
Tight calf muscles
A metatarsal bone that is lower than the others
Your Treatment Options
A tailor’s bunion should be treated with the help of a podiatrist. A podiatrist may prescribe medication to help reduce pain and swelling in the foot. They may also recommend the use of a custom-made orthotic device. This device fits seamlessly into your shoe and allows the foot to be supported, cushioned, and corrected so the bunion does not worsen or cause more pain. As a last resort, your foot doctor may recommend surgery to remove the bunion.
Advanced Feet and Ankle Care is here to assist you with your podiatry needs! To make an appointment with Jason M. Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM, call us at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Old Bridge and Sayreville offices are ready and eager to help.