What Are Tailor's Bunions And What Causes Bumps On The Outside Of Feet?

Tailor's bunions are bumps that form on the outside of the foot around the base of the fifth toe. They are caused by a prominent bone laterally over the fifth metatarsal head. They can either be caused because of bone spurs growing over this area, or because the angle between the fourth and fifth metatarsals is increased, which causes this area to be prominent on the foot.  Tailor's bunions are somtimes confused with more common bunion or hallux valgus defomities, which cause a prominent bump behind the big toe over the inside of the foot.

These bumps can become painful because nerves run over the area, and the bone can pinch the nerve against shoes. Shoes that are too narrow and push on the bumps, typically make these areas feel worse. Wearing wider shoes and using padding over the bumps can help relieve the pain.

If pain persists despite shoe modifications, tailor's bunions can be surgically corrected as well. In mild cases, sometimes the bump can simply be shaved off. In most cases when they are more severe, a bone cut called an osteotomy is necessary to realign the bone and straighten it, so it no longer gives pain with shoes.

Many times when people have tailor's bunions, they also have an adductovarus fifth toe (hammertoe) deformity. We often recommend straightening this at the same time we are fixing a tailor's bunion deformity.  This is done to try to realign both the fifth metatarsal and the fifth toe to try to decrease the risk of any residual problems with the fifth toe.

If you are suffering from any foot and ankle pain, call your team of expert podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons today at 719-488-4664. All of our surgeons and staff are expertly trained to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Author
Dr. Matthew Hinderland Board Certified Podiatrist and Foot and Ankle Surgeon

You Might Also Enjoy...

Can an Ankle Sprain Simply Heal with Rest?

While popular opinion states that sprained ankles can only be left to heal on their own, that can actually lead to complications and prolonged healing. We review why you should seek medical treatment for your sprained ankle here.

Do I Need Surgery for My Hammertoe?

If you have a hammertoe, you might be wondering if surgery is your only option to treat it. We explore all your treatment options for hammertoe here and review when surgery becomes necessary.

How Are Custom Orthotics Made?

If you suffer from chronic foot and ankle pain, you might need custom-made orthotics. Find out more about the process of making custom orthotics here.

Can My Ingrown Toenail Heal on Its Own?

If you struggle with ingrown toenails — a common foot condition — you might be wondering if they’ll go away all on their own, or if you always need to seek treatment for them. We review that and more here.

I Have High Arches. Now What?

If you have high arches, you’re at risk for developing other foot health issues. Read on to learn how to treat any potential complications of high arches and more about this foot condition.

What’s Behind Your Popping Ankles?

Ankle popping is common. But how do you know what’s causing it, and if it’s something you should be worried about? We answer those questions and more here.