How To Handle Your Tailor’s Bunion

A tailor’s bunion or bunionette is a deformity that affects the fifth toe’s joint. It is most commonly caused by pressure applied on the pinky toe. This can be caused by genetics, misalignment of the foot, incorrect pronation (how one’s foot meets the ground), or wearing tight/narrow shoes.

So how do you identify a bunionette? It appears as a lesion along the outer edge of the foot and is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, or a vesicle (fluid-filled bump on raised skin).

Tailor’s bunion surgery is recommended for patients who experience severe symptoms such as an inability to walk or stand comfortably. Even slipping your feet into a pair of shoes can feel unbearable. A doctor can determine if surgery is meant for you after examining an X-ray of your foot.

How to Get Rid of Tailor’s Bunion Without Surgery

There are ways to minimize the swelling and pain associated with a tailor’s bunion. Specialized facilities such as Northwest Surgery Center can help diagnose your condition before suggesting the best course of action.

Certain non-invasive methods can help you deal with the symptoms of a tailor’s bunion. These methods can lessen the intensity of pain and discomfort.

Easy Exercises For Relief From Tailor’s Bunion

There are a handful of exercises that can relieve pain and even prevent a tailor’s bunion from happening in the first place.

Point and curl

Place your feet 6 inches away from the ground. Gently point and curl your toes upwards 20 times for two or three sets.

Spread toes

Firmly plant your feet on the ground. Then, without lifting your heel, raise and spread your toes. Do this for each foot 10 to 20 times in a single set.

Circling toes

Sit in a chair and bend over to hold your big toe first. Turn it gently clockwise and then counter-clockwise. Do this 20 times in both directions. Repeat this motion for the other toes, too.

Rolling ball

Place a tennis ball or acupuncture roller under your foot and massage the entire underside for 3 to 5 minutes. Do this for both feet, whether you have a bunionette or not.

Tailor’s Bunion Correctors: Do They Work?

If you are wondering if tailor’s bunion correctors work, the answer is they can, but only temporarily. The purpose of a tailor’s bunion corrector is to separate and shield the pinky toe from every side. Doing so can reduce pain and friction. In addition, these correctors can be used inside of shoes and even at home to provide temporary relief.

Tailor’s bunion pads are designed similar to correctors and help stabilize the toes and protect against pressure caused by footwear. Again, it’s best to visit a doctor to find one that feels comfortable on your foot.

What About Bunion Supports?

Also known as orthotics, bunion supports can improve and support a foot’s alignment and functionality. Tailor’s bunion correctors and supports are made from flexible, gel-based materials that offer some protection from impacts and friction. These accessories can help wearers perform day-to-day activities without aggravating an existing bunionette until permanent treatment options can be explored.

Some doctors advise patients to wear bunion supports after surgery to encourage healing before one resumes walking in regular shoes again.

Ultimately, find something that works for you to help ease the symptoms of a tailor’s bunion until you can seek out a professional for permanent relief. Receiving your diagnosis and treating your tailor’s bunion can help make life on your feet a whole lot easier.