Tailor's Bunion (Bunionette) at Foot and Ankle Clinic DRHC Dubai

Tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a painful and sometimes disabling condition that affects the outer side of the foot. It occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe becomes enlarged and protrudes outward. At DRHC Dubai, we offer expert diagnosis, treatment, and management for Tailor's bunion to help patients achieve optimal foot health and comfort.

What is Tailor's Bunion?

Tailor's bunion is a bony bump that forms on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. It is similar to a bunion, which occurs on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. The term "Tailor's bunion" originated because tailors used to sit cross-legged for long periods, putting pressure on the outside of their feet, which contributed to the development of this condition.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of Tailor's bunion:

• Foot Structure: Inherited foot shape or structure can predispose individuals to bunionettes.
• Footwear: Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can increase pressure on the little toe, leading to the formation of a bunionette.
• Repetitive Stress: Activities that place excessive pressure on the outside of the foot.
• Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions that can affect the joints and cause deformities.

Symptoms of Tailor's bunion

The most obvious symptom of a tailor’s bunion is the bony growth at the base of your pinkie toe. Some people don’t experience any other symptoms, especially if the bunionette is small or newly formed.

• Pain and tenderness around the base of the little toe.
• Redness and swelling over the bony bump.
• Calluses or corns due to friction with footwear.
• Difficulty finding comfortable shoes.

Diagnosis

At DRHC Dubai, our specialists use a thorough diagnostic approach to assess Tailor's bunion:

• Clinical Examination: Evaluating the foot’s structure, alignment, and range of motion.
• Medical History: Understanding the patient's symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous foot issues.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays to evaluate the extent of the deformity and identify any underlying bone or joint issues.

Treatment Options for Tailor's Bunion

Our multidisciplinary team at DRHC Dubai provides personalized treatment plans tailored to the severity of the condition and the patient’s needs:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Footwear Modifications: Recommending shoes with a wider toe box and lower heels to reduce pressure on the bunionette.
• Padding and Taping: Using pads to cushion the area and taping to help align the toe properly.
• Orthotic Devices: Custom-made shoe inserts to support proper foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Surgical Treatments

When conservative treatments are insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. DRHC Dubai offers various surgical techniques to correct Tailor's Bunion, tailored to individual needs.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally Invasive Bunionette Correction

• Procedure: Small incisions are made to access and remove the bony prominence, with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
• Benefits: Reduced surgical time, minimal scarring, shorter recovery period.
• Risks: Potential for incomplete correction, risk of infection.

Open Surgery

Osteotomy

• Procedure: The bone is cut and realigned to correct the deformity.
• Benefits: Effective for severe deformities, precise correction.
• Risks: Longer recovery, larger scar, higher risk of infection.

Exostectomy

• Procedure: The bony prominence is surgically removed.
• Benefits: Immediate relief from the bony bump, quick procedure.
• Risks: Does not address the underlying structural cause, potential for recurrence.

Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation

At DRHC Dubai, we provide comprehensive postoperative care to ensure optimal recovery and functional improvement. Our multidisciplinary team offers:

• Physical Therapy: To restore strength and flexibility.
• Gradual Return to Activities: Carefully monitored to avoid complications.
• Orthotic Support: As needed to maintain correction.

Why choose DRHC Dubai?

• Expert Team: Our experienced orthopedic specialists and podiatrists provide comprehensive care for foot deformities.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies ensure the highest standard of care.
• Personalized Approach: Customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and condition severity.
• Patient-Centered Care: We prioritize patient comfort, education, and satisfaction, ensuring a positive experience throughout the treatment journey.

By offering a comprehensive range of treatment options, we ensure personalized care for each patient, addressing their unique needs and preferences. Experience compassionate and expert care for Tailor's Bunion (Bunionette) at DRHC Dubai, where your foot health is our priority. Call +97142798200 to book your appointment now.