Bunion Correctors & Splints - Do they Really Work (2024)

13 Nov Bunion Correctors & Splints – Do they Really Work?

Are Bunion Correctors The Solution?

Over 60 per cent of our patients see us for management and treatment of theirbunions, and many of them ask us if bunion splints and correctors really work.

There is always a new tool or splint claiming to correct your bunion in a few days, or to straighten the toe in days — pain free. It’s no surprise that we get asked this question remarkably often as these products are heavily advertised online, together with a lot of misleading information.

Most people who develop a bunion reach first for over-the-counter remedies, such as these splints, to control the pain that accompanies the deformity. After all, who wantsbunion surgeryif they don’t absolutely need it? We understand completely. We see several post-surgery bunions daily. In fact, one study suggests that 30 per cent of people who have bunion surgery are unhappy with their results.[1]

Bunion Correctors & Splints - Do they Really Work (1)

So, the answer to the burning question is — no! We have not seen any long-term research articles proving that bunion splints or bunion correctors work,and, despite coming across many such splints in over 15 years of experience in Australia, we are yet to see one that works effectively.

The splints may appear to work while you have them on and may even feel good, but your toe does not stay that way after you remove them. The bunion is caused by something happening further back in your foot, which is why a bunion splint will NOT ‘cure’ or ‘fix’ your bunion.

What Causes Bunions?

The underlying cause can usually be determined and investigated during an initial consultation here at Sydney Bunion Clinic. We look at why the bunion is occurring in the first place and establish how to stop its progression. The cause of bunions is related to the way you stand and walk, which is influenced by genetic factors.

How We Treat Bunions

If suitable, we will prescribe a course of gentleFoot Mobilisationsthat will target the underlying cause of your bunions to ensure long-term management. These will be accompanied by some exercises that will help strengthen the muscles responsible for straightening the toe. We also have our very own toe separators that will aid in bringing the toes across as they are straightened.

So, if you want to straighten your toe or avoid surgery by treating the underlying cause of your bunion, take advantage of our free assessment offer to anyone with a bunion. (You must mention this blog at the time of the booking.)

To book an assessment, call us on (02) 9907 0144 for Manly.

Tags: Bunion Treatment Sydney, Bunion Surgery

Bunion Correctors & Splints - Do they Really Work (2)

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*Claimable on your private health insurance

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Bunion Correctors & Splints - Do they Really Work (2024)

FAQs

Bunion Correctors & Splints - Do they Really Work? ›

Perhaps the term of “bunion correctors” is slightly misleading as they do not actually correct bunions, rather prevents it from getting worse. The only way to really correct a bunion is by surgery. In most cases, this is a last resort for people who are in great pain and have severe deformity.

Do bunion corrector splints really work? ›

Research suggests that bunion correctors aren't effective at realigning your big toe or at getting rid of bunions. But they may help provide some temporary pain relief, while you wear them.

Do podiatrists recommend bunion correctors? ›

Our podiatrists say that while over-the-counter options can't fully rid bunions, they can alleviate pain and offer temporary relief. Function: There are many options to help manage your bunions, including bunion correctors, toe spacers, gels, padding, and even wide-toe box shoes.

How long does it take to correct a bunion with a splint? ›

Nearly all podiatrists will agree that a bunion splint cannot stop you from forming bunions and it certainly will not cure them. You also shouldn't expect to see immediate success overnight. If you are going to try wearing a bunion splint, you should try wearing it for at least one week.

How effective is a bunion night splint? ›

The splints may appear to work while you have them on and may even feel good, but your toe does not stay that way after you remove them. The bunion is caused by something happening further back in your foot, which is why a bunion splint will NOT 'cure' or 'fix' your bunion.

Can you straighten a bunion without surgery? ›

In most cases, bunions can be treated nonsurgically. One of the podiatrists from our team can examine your bunion(s) and recommend a conservative treatment which includes one or more of the following: Custom shoe orthotics (inserts) that relieve pressure on the joint and align your weight in a more beneficial way.

What is the best bunion corrector for podiatrists? ›

When to Consult a Podiatrist
  • Best Overall: Caretras Bunion Corrector at Amazon ($25) ...
  • Best Gel Bunion Guard: NatraCure Gel Big Toe Bunion Guard at Amazon ($19) ...
  • Best Insoles: Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles at Amazon ($25) ...
  • Best Toe Spreader: ...
  • Best Sleeve: ...
  • Best Bunion Relief Kit: ...
  • Best Socks: ...
  • Best Orthotic:
Mar 6, 2024

How to dissolve bunions naturally? ›

Our 10 top tips on treating bunions without surgery:
  1. Massage and exercise your feet.
  2. Take a paracetamol.
  3. Soak your feet in a foot bath.
  4. Ice your feet.
  5. Put your feet up!
  6. Try castor oil.
  7. Try bunion pads.
  8. Try bunion splints.
Jul 20, 2022

What is the best over the counter medicine for bunions? ›

Our doctors may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce swelling and relieve pain in the foot and toe affected by a bunion. NSAIDs are taken by mouth. Many of these medications, including ibuprofen and naproxen, are available without a prescription.

Can you wear a bunion corrector all day? ›

With that being said, the most commonly used type of bunion correctors are ones constructed from gel or fabric since they can be worn anytime and anywhere, whether you're going to work, staying indoors or sleeping.

Can you sleep in a bunion corrector? ›

When you're sleeping, you can wear a splint at night to hold the toe straight. This will ease the discomfort you may have, which might actually also help you fall asleep.

How do you stop bunions from forming? ›

Bunion prevention and management: 5 things to start doing
  1. Make sure your shoes are the right size and fit. ...
  2. Avoid wearing high heels every day (or retire them altogether) ...
  3. Rest your feet. ...
  4. Do bunion stretches and exercises to strengthen your feet. ...
  5. Monitor your feet for changes.

Is there a way to stop a bunion from getting worse? ›

Invest in orthotics

Custom orthotics are special shoe inserts designed for your foot shape and needs. Orthotics redistribute your weight, relieve pressure on your bunions, and offer extra padding and support. Orthotics are available for all types of footwear, including dress shoes and athletic shoes.

Do inserts help bunions? ›

Custom orthotics are special shoe or heel inserts prescribed by your doctor. They're specifically designed to relieve foot and ankle pain, including bunion pain.

How to stop a bunion from forming? ›

Bunion prevention and management: 5 things to start doing
  1. Make sure your shoes are the right size and fit. ...
  2. Avoid wearing high heels every day (or retire them altogether) ...
  3. Rest your feet. ...
  4. Do bunion stretches and exercises to strengthen your feet. ...
  5. Monitor your feet for changes.

How long should you wear bunion protectors? ›

You may feel slight discomfort when wearing a bunion splint at first, but this should lessen after your big toe gets used to its new position. You should aim to wear the splint for 2-4 hours daily/nightly. If you feel any severe pain then you should loosen it slightly and wear it for a shorter period of time.

References

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