ALL THINGS FEET RELATED FOR LADIES

Wednesday 4 May 2011

PAIN RELIEF WITH BUNION SPLINTS

FootSmart
Bunion Regulator Night Splint
A bunion splint is not a cure for bunions. It is an aid in the treatment of bunions, used to stretch the tendons typically shortened by their onset, and also as a great source of pain relief. It works by pulling the big toe out while putting pressure on the bunion inward, with the goal of getting the big toe into proper alignment and relieving pain. The pressure is adjusted little by little over time by tightening the blue & white straps as seen in the accompanying image. This should be a gradual and gentle process without any pain. 

These types of splints are meant to be worn at night and sleeping in them is recommended, but don't make the mistake of strapping them on too tight and full force right from the start - as this is the reason why many find them intolerable to sleep in and quickly give up on them. They do take a little getting used to, and in my opinion the pain relief is worth the effort, and any potential correction that might be achieved is a bonus. (Caution - never attempt standing or walking in bunion splints - you can easily stumble and fall, as well as damage the splints.)

If you are unsure whether bunion splints are for you, it is best to consult with a Podiatrist.

2 comments:

  1. I wonder how long it would take to straighten out big toes? Is there any claim by the manufacturer that the product works within a certain span of time if the splint is worn religiously every night? I wonder....

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  2. @Anonymous It is impossible for a manufacturer to guarantee that a bunion splint will completely straighten out the big toe or to indicate how long it will take to see results, because this depends on many variables - including but not limited to: severity of the angle and tightness of the surrounding tissues, other issues with the joints or foot structure, what caused the bunions, injury, arthritis, etc.

    A bunion splint doesn’t cure bunions. Even if correction is achieved you will have to wear bunion splints 2-3 times per week for maintenance. In very severe cases a bunion splint may not be effective at all. For those who continue to wear pointy-toed, forefoot-squishing shoes and extreme high heels, correction will not be achieved with bunion splints; however, they would serve well for pain relief.

    There are many styles of splints available - one type might be more effective for you than another. A Podiatrist or Sports Medicine Doctor can help determine what’s best for you. In my opinion, it’s worth exploring anything that might help to avoid surgery.

    There will be more on the subject of bunion splints and other corrective devices in future posts.

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