Condition
Tailor's Bunion
A tailor's bunion, or bunionette, affects the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe.
A tailor's bunion is a prominence near the fifth metatarsal at the base of the little toe. Foot mechanics or a localized bony prominence may contribute.
Symptoms are often related to pressure from footwear, and X-rays may help define the underlying structure.
This page is general education. Symptoms described on a website cannot establish a diagnosis, and an in-person examination is what identifies the cause of your symptoms and what to do about it.
Common signs and symptoms
- A prominence on the outside of the foot near the little toe
- Pain, redness, or swelling in that area
- Irritation from shoe pressure
- Discomfort that increases with prolonged walking or standing
Possible causes and contributing factors
- Foot mechanics
- A localized bony prominence
- Footwear pressure over the area
How Metro Foot & Ankle evaluates tailor's bunion
- We review your symptoms, activity or injury history, footwear, and medical history.
- We examine the fifth metatarsal area, forefoot width, and shoe fit along with the surrounding joints and the way you walk.
- We use X-rays or other testing when the findings make it clinically appropriate.
- We explain what we found and what the reasonable options are for your situation.
You will see Dr. Kayla Wright, DPM, ABFAS Board Certified, at our Tempe office. New to the practice? Review new-patient information before your visit.
General treatment progression
- Evaluation, which may include X-rays to define the underlying structure
- Footwear changes
- Padding over the prominence
- Activity modification
- Orthotic support when indicated
- Surgery for selected persistent symptomatic deformities
When prompt evaluation may be appropriate
Some foot and ankle symptoms should be evaluated promptly rather than watched. Call our office if you notice:
- An injury with difficulty walking or bearing weight
- A change in the shape or appearance of the foot or ankle after a fall or twist
- Redness, warmth, drainage, or signs of infection
- An open sore or wound on the foot, especially with diabetes or circulation concerns
- New numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
- Pain that keeps getting worse or does not improve with reasonable initial care
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. This website and its appointment tools are not monitored for emergency medical needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is a tailor's bunion the same as a bunion?
They are related in concept but affect opposite sides of the forefoot. A tailor's bunion involves the little-toe side.
Will wider shoes fix it?
Footwear changes can reduce irritation for many people, but they do not change the underlying bone structure.
Your next step
To be seen for tailor's bunion, request an appointment or call 480-831-0700. Our office is at 3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108, in Tempe — see directions and parking.
Sources(show)
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (Foot Health Facts) — Tailor's Bunion (Bunionette)Definition, symptoms, evaluation, and treatment progression.
Request an appointment
Our Tempe office schedules new and established patients Monday through Friday. Book online, or call and we will help you find a time.
Metro Foot & Ankle — Tempe office
3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108
Tempe, AZ 85282
Fax 480-831-0748
Suite 108 is on the ground floor of the office complex, marked with Metro Foot & Ankle signage and our phone number on the window. Parking is available on site.
Office hours
- Monday – Friday
- 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday & Sunday
- Closed
Please do not send medical details, records, or images through this website. Call the office to discuss anything clinical.
