Bunion Splints

668 Words3 Pages
Do Bunion Splints Help To Repair Damaged Feet? Bunions can make walking miserable. The conspicuous bump, around the big toe joint, is caused by a bone that has been forcibly angled toward the inside of the foot, so that, in many cases the big toe rests over or under the second toe. The protuberance becomes red, swollen, and sensitive to pressure. In response to the pain, individuals change their walking gait to try and avoid putting pressure against the bunion, negatively impacting their posture and body alignment. Developing bunions may be the result of hereditary factors, arthritis, or leg length incongruities. Women who wear high-heeled, pointed shoes are the most likely candidates for developing a bunion. Initial treatment for bunions…show more content…
The splint includes a brace that holds the big toe in place, correcting its position. The lining is padded with soft foam to shelter enflamed deep tissues and relieve pressure which mitigates bunion pain. Most rigid bunion splints are not designed for walking as they have a tendency to rotate around the foot. Soft Soft bunion splints are composed of light weight, soft foam that is designed to reduce pressure in the shoe, realign the big toe, and stretch tendons and toe muscles. Soft bunion splints are not effective for moderate or severe bunions as the firm foam splint lacks the strength to correct the alignment of the big toe. They are mainly worn at night because of their comfort. Unlike rigid bunion splits, splint pressure points are on the soft tissue of the foot, rather than the bonier parts.…show more content…
The splint includes a mid-foot strap, a toe strap, and a metatarsal pad that is placed behind the ball of the foot. The major advantage of a hinged bunion splint is the hinged mechanism which allows the big toe to flex when walking and that also adapts to the contour of the irritated joint area. Along with the corrective features of both the rigid and soft bunion splints, hinged bunion splints reduce toe joint strain and enhance the distribution of pressure throughout the foot. Hinged splints are strong and durable, but very thin and lightweight. They can be worn day or night. Continuing use of hinged bunion splints, after surgery, has resulted in reducing bunion reoccurrence and visible big toe alignment correction. Effectiveness Generally bunion splints alleviate bunion pain instantly, which helps individuals immeasurably in coping with their condition. Splints work by separating the large toe from the second toe. When used correctly, the pressure on the foot is redistributed from the big toe area and proper toe alignment is maintained. Splints that are properly fitted and used consistently correct the angle of the big toe. Splints cannot cure bunions completely, but most individuals find their condition is greatly alleviated. For bunions that continue to cause excruciating pain, bunion surgery may be advised to correct the bunion permanently. Surgery is a last resort to relieve bunion

More about Bunion Splints

Open Document