Are bunion splints supposed to hurt to be effective?
This is a question that we get asked a lot. And the answer is… maybe. It depends on the individual and the severity of their bunion.
Bunion splints are a common treatment for bunions, but there is some debate about whether or not they are effective. There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone’s experience with bunion splints will be different. Some people say that the splints are effective, but they are very painful to wear. Others say that the splints are not effective, but they are not painful to wear. If you are considering using bunion splints, it is important to speak with your doctor to see if they are right for you.
For some people, a splint that causes a little bit of discomfort may be just the right amount of pressure to help correct the alignment of their big toe. For others, a splint that is too tight or too bulky may actually make the pain and inflammation worse.
There are three main types of bunion splints:
- Those that are rigid. The rigid splints are generally made of plastic or metal and are designed to hold the big toe in place so that the bunion can heal.
- Flexible bunion splints those that thick & softer. The softer splints are generally made of foam or gel and are designed to cushion the big toe and provide support & comfort.
- The third type provides a soft flexible support without adding additional bulk to your shoes.
So, which one is right for you?
If you are looking for a splint to help prevent your bunion from getting worse, a night splint is a good choice. These shouldn’t be too tight or heavy or they’ll likely wake you up at night. Comfort is key.
If you are looking for a splint to help relieve pain and help you walk and stand without pain, a day splint is a good choice. Ultra-thin bunion splints such as Bunion Bootie provide the support, correction, and protection against rubbing footwear. That’s nice and all but the real value is that the low profile (0.4 mm thick!), allows the user constant foot to floor contact. This is important because often as the bunion pain increases over time, bunion sufferers tend to alter their natural gait to avoid pain, as anyone would with foot pain. Additionally, as most bunion sufferers fall into the 65 years old and up category, balance and stability are everything.
Both types of splints can be effective in treating bunions. However, the rigid splints can sometimes be uncomfortable to wear, particularly if they rub against the skin. The softer splints, on the other hand, are often more comfortable to wear but should be carefully evaluated as to not cause other issues with balance, stability, or displacement of the other toes.
The best way to determine if a bunion splint is effective is to consult with a foot and ankle specialist. They can help you find the right splint for your individual needs and help you determine how long to wear it each day.