A tailor’s bunion is a somewhat rare variation of a “typical bunion.” Unlike regular bunions, which occur along the side of the foot near the big toe joint, tailor’s bunions form on the side of the foot near the pinky toe. These bunions –– also known as bunionettes –– may be smaller than the average bunion, but they can be just as intrusive, unsightly, and painful. As such, it’s natural for many individuals to wonder what’s the best way to get rid of a tailor’s bunion without surgery? Unfortunately, the answer is to simply avoid them in the first place! Once a tailor’s bunion forms, the only way to get rid of it for good is through surgical intervention. Here, we’ll explain more about tailor’s bunions, what you can do to prevent them, and further treatment options you may want to explore: 

What is a Tailor’s Bunion?

As we explained above, the main difference between a tailor’s bunion and a regular bunion is that it occurs next to the joint on the pinky toe. Bunions in general can occur for a variety of reasons –– including genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices. Regardless of the underlying cause, tailor’s bunions (like regular bunions) form as a result of pressure placed on the foot. When joints, muscles, or tendons become misaligned along the side of the foot, a bunion can develop. 

Tailor’s bunions form when that pressure is focused on the side of the foot near the pinky toe. In fact, tailor’s bunions got their name because tailors themselves were so likely to develop them –– owing to the way they had to hold their feet and legs on a regular basis.  

Preventing Tailor’s Bunions

Some individuals may be more susceptible to developing bunions just because of the natural shape of their foot. If both of your parents had bunions, for instance, you may be at risk of developing them later in life as well. 

Still, there are steps you can take to protect your foot health and lower your risk of developing bunions or bunionettes. The first is to stop wearing tight-fitting shoes –– high heels in particular. Secondly, you can perform regular stretching exercises to keep your foot muscles active. And lastly, always monitor your foot health closely. The sooner you identify an issue like a bunion, the faster you can deal with it effectively. 

Tailor’s Bunion Surgery

Once a tailor’s bunion forms, the only way to permanently remove it is through surgery. Non-surgical treatments like pads and sleeves will –– at best –– provide only temporary pain relief. The good news for individuals who may be a little hesitant to go under the knife is that minimally invasive bunion surgery is a very patient-friendly procedure. Not only is it a safe and effective surgery, but most of our patients are able to walk out of the operating room and resume many daily activities immediately following the procedure. And minimally invasive bunion surgery requires far less recovery time than more traditional surgical methods. 

Contact Us

At Northwest Surgery Center, we are experts in the field of minimally invasive bunion surgery. We offer long-term solutions to patients suffering from foot pain, and we can help you address any issue that may be affecting your quality of life. Contact us here to learn more about our processes or to get in touch with us today!