Several factors can contribute to the development of a Tailor’s bunion, including:

• Foot structure or inherited biomechanics
• Wearing tight or narrow shoes that compress the forefoot
• Flat feet or abnormal gait patterns
• Joint instability or hypermobility
• Repetitive pressure or irritation along the outer edge of the foot

Over time, pressure on the fifth metatarsal head can cause the surrounding soft tissue to become inflamed and painful, especially during walking or physical activity.

• Pain or burning on the outer side of the foot
• Swelling and redness near the base of the fifth toe
• Callus formation over the bunionette
• Worsening pain when wearing shoes
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods

At SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, our expert podiatrists will evaluate your foot through:

• Detailed physical examination
• Gait analysis
• Digital X-rays to assess joint alignment and bunion severity

We tailor your treatment plan based on the stage of deformity and your activity level.

• Custom-molded orthotics to correct biomechanical issues
• Padding and shoe modifications to relieve pressure
• Anti-inflammatory medications or topical pain relief
• Stretching and physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections (in select cases)

For moderate to severe bunionettes that do not respond to conservative care, surgical correction may be recommended. Outpatient procedures include:

• Bunionette resection
• Osteotomy (bone realignment)
• Soft tissue balancing

Our foot and ankle surgeons use minimally invasive techniques when appropriate, allowing for quicker recovery and better cosmetic outcomes.

If you’re experiencing foot pain, visible bony bumps, or difficulty wearing shoes, don’t wait until the condition worsens. Schedule an appointment with SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, trusted by patients throughout Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, and those seeking expert care near Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

We’ll help you walk comfortably again — without the pain of a Tailor’s bunion.