Tailor’s bunion, or bunionette, is a deformity that causes a painful protrusion on the outer side of the foot, at the base of the fifth toe. Fortunately, minimally invasive surgery offers an effective solution for this condition. At Clínica San Román, we are experts in this type of treatment, guaranteeing optimal results and rapid recovery.
What is Tailor’s Bunion?
Tailor’s bunion is a bony protrusion that forms at the fifth metatarsal joint, commonly painful and interfering with daily activities. This condition owes its name to the tailors, who used to sit with their legs crossed, putting pressure on this part of the foot.
Causes of Tailor’s Bunion
The causes of tailor’s bunion can be varied:
- Genetics: Hereditary predisposition to develop this deformity.
- Foot Biomechanics: High arches or flat feet that alter weight distribution.
- Inadequate Footwear: Use of narrow shoes or high heels.
- Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may contribute.
Symptoms
The main symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness: Localized pain in the protrusion of the fifth metatarsal.
- Swelling and redness: Inflammation in the affected area.
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes: Trouble wearing tight-fitting shoes.
- Callus development: Callus formation on the protuberance.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of tailor’s bunion is made by:
- Physical Evaluation: Visual inspection and palpation of the foot.
- X-rays: To evaluate bone structure and severity of deformity.
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment options include:
- Change of Footwear: Use of wide and comfortable shoes to reduce pressure.
- Orthoses and Insoles: Additional support to relieve pressure.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles of the foot, improving the biomechanics of the foot and reducing pressure on the protrusion.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery offers numerous benefits:
- Less invasive: Small incisions reduce tissue damage.
- Less Postoperative Pain: Less pain after surgery.
- Less Visible Scars: Small incisions leave minimal scars.
Surgical Procedure
The procedure includes:
- Local anesthesia: Avoids the complications of general anesthesia.
- Small incisions: Millimeter incisions to access the affected area.
- Deformity Correction: Elimination of the bony protrusion and correction of the bone position.
- Closure and Recovery: Small sutures and postoperative care.
Postoperative recovery
- Relative Rest: Avoid exertion and keep the foot elevated.
- Special Footwear: Use of postoperative footwear for protection.
- Rehabilitation Exercises: Recovery of mobility and strengthening of foot muscles.
- Medical follow-up: Regular monitoring to ensure adequate recovery.
Conclusion
Tailor’s bunion can cause pain and limit mobility, but minimally invasive surgery offers an effective solution. Consult a podiatrist if you experience symptoms to evaluate the best treatment options. At Clínica San Román, we are experts in minimally invasive surgery to treat tailor’s bunions. Contact us today for a consultation and begin your journey to a pain-free life.
