A Tailor’s Bunion, or bunionette, is a common foot condition characterized by a painful, bony enlargement that develops at the base of the little toe, specifically on the head of the fifth metatarsal bone. This prominence on the foot’s outer edge can cause discomfort, swelling, and friction, especially when wearing shoes. Taping provides a simple, non-invasive method to temporarily reposition the little toe and relieve pressure on the irritated joint. This mechanical support can significantly reduce pain and slow the condition’s progression.
Identifying a Tailor’s Bunion and Necessary Materials
A Tailor’s Bunion presents as a distinct bony lump on the outside border of the forefoot, located at the joint of the pinky toe. Common symptoms include localized pain, noticeable swelling, and redness where the bump rubs against footwear. This constant friction can also lead to the formation of corns or calluses over the prominence.
Taping is a supportive measure, not a diagnostic tool, so confirming the condition with a medical professional is recommended if pain persists. To prepare for taping, gather the necessary supplies, which include:
- A roll of flexible kinesiology tape or durable, thin athletic (rigid) tape.
- A sharp pair of scissors to cut the tape into strips.
- A roll of pre-wrap, which protects sensitive skin from irritation or excessive adhesive.
Step-by-Step Taping Techniques
Effective taping begins with clean, dry skin to ensure the adhesive tape adheres properly and maintains its mechanical pull. If using pre-wrap for skin protection, apply a thin layer completely around the fifth metatarsal head and the little toe joint. This preparation prevents skin shearing and irritation, especially with prolonged use.
The primary technique uses a thin strip of kinesiology tape, which mimics the elasticity of skin and muscles, allowing movement while providing subtle support. Begin by cutting a narrow strip, approximately half an inch wide, and tear the backing paper near the middle. Place the center of this strip on the inside surface of the little toe, near its base, without stretching the tape.
This first anchor point provides the foundation for the corrective force that repositions the toe. Gently use your fingers to manually guide the little toe laterally, moving it slightly away from the fourth toe into a straighter, anatomical alignment. This manual mobilization should be comfortable and pain-free, establishing the desired corrected position.
With the toe held in this corrected alignment, peel the tape’s backing and apply the strip over the top of the toe. As you pull the tape down the outside of the foot, apply firm but gentle tension to the strip, creating a lateral pull that maintains the toe’s new position. This tension counteracts the forces pushing the metatarsal head outward and the toe inward.
The tape should run directly over the prominent bony area and continue down the outer edge of the foot, aiming toward the heel. This long anchor provides the necessary leverage to keep the toe from reverting to its misaligned position. Ensure the final inch of the tape, where it anchors to the skin, is applied with no tension to prevent blistering or skin irritation.
For increased stability and a more profound corrective effect, a second, longer piece of tape can be used as a stabilization strip. Start by splitting a slightly wider piece of tape lengthwise, leaving the center portion intact. Place the intact center section directly in the web space between the fourth and little toes.
Peel the backing from one side of this split strip and, while maintaining the toe’s corrected alignment, pull the tape down and across the bottom of the foot toward the arch with moderate tension. Repeat this process with the second half of the strip, pulling it down the opposite side of the foot and allowing the two ends to overlap slightly or wrap around the foot’s outer edge. The dual-pull mechanism provides a circumferential correction, stabilizing the entire forefoot structure. Once all strips are applied, gently rub the tape to warm the adhesive, setting the bond for lasting support.
Duration of Use and When to Seek Medical Advice
Taping offers immediate mechanical support, but it is a temporary measure designed to alleviate symptoms, not a permanent cure for the underlying bony deformity. The duration of wear depends on the type of tape used and the reaction of your skin. Flexible kinesiology tape can remain in place for up to three to five days, even through showering, while rigid athletic tape typically needs daily replacement.
Remove the tape immediately if you experience any adverse symptoms:
- Numbness or tingling.
- An increase in pain.
- Noticeable skin discoloration beyond mild redness upon removal.
These signs indicate the tape may be applied too tightly or the skin is reacting poorly to the adhesive. Never tape the foot overnight if the tape is causing discomfort or circulation concerns.
While taping can offer significant relief, consult a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist if:
- The pain becomes severe.
- You develop signs of infection near the bunion.
- The bump prevents normal walking.
A lack of improvement after a few weeks of consistent non-surgical treatment also warrants professional evaluation. Early intervention can prevent the progressive nature of the bunion from leading to complex issues that may eventually require surgical correction.