Causes and risk factors
Tailor’s bunion is caused due to inflammation of the fifth metatarsal bone. This condition can be inherited due to abnormality in the structure of the foot which leads to the enlargement of the metatarsal bone. Repeated use of high heel shoe or narrow or pointed shoes are some of the other contributing factors.
Clinical presentation:
Formation of a bony spur or protuberance at the lateral edge of the feet at the base of the little toe is the characteristic feature seen. Pain at the fifth metatarsal bone is the characteristic feature seen. Use of pointed and high heel shoes along with pressure on toe aggravates the pain. Redness and swelling are the other complaints seen. The skin is warm to touch. On examination, tenderness is also seen. Adjacent irritation of nerves can cause complaints of the little toe. Numbness and tingling of the little toe is seen.
Investigations:
Symptoms narrated by the patient are taken into consideration and a physical examination is carried out by the orthopedic doctor. Investigations like x-ray or CT scan can be advised.
Treatment:
The treatment plan consists of administration of pain reliving medications orally, or corticosteroid injections are given. Application of ice pack will help in reducing the swelling. Modification in shoes is advised. Shoes with wide toe box should be used. Use of padding or cushion over the affected toe will help to reduce the pain. If the complaints persist in spite of these changes, then surgical intervention is advised.
When to contact a doctor:
Seek an advice from a doctor if one experiences any discomfort, pain, or swelling of the fifth metatarsal bone.
Prevention: Avoid prolonged use of pointed and high heel shoes.
System Involved: Musculoskeletal system
Organ involved: Bone, metatarsal bone, fifth metatarsal bone, muscles, and nerves, fifth toe
