The Benefits of Using a Bunion Brace
As you know, bunions, bunionettes and other foot/toe deformities don’t just pop up out of nowhere. These issues actually develop over time due to a variety of factors and may be able to be prevented with proper precautions and lifestyle choices. At Bunion Bootie, we create products that are designed to aid in the treatment and prevention of bunions and their associated symptoms. The Bunion Bootie is a type of soft, flexible, and comfortable bunion brace that can be worn to improve overall quality of life on a day-to-day basis. Bunion braces are often also referred to as bunion splints or bunion orthoics or bunion inserts. Today, we’re discussing the benefits of bunion braces and splints and why they might be a great option for you.
Downsides of Bunion Surgery
According to WebMD, there are possible downsides of bunion surgery, making non-surgical bunion treatment options a better option for some. These downsides include:
- The bunion comes back following surgery.
- Bunion surgery doesn’t correct the problem enough.
- Bunion surgery overcorrects the problem, making your toe point inward.
- Bunion pain and associated symptoms continue.
- The big toe has less mobility following bunion surgery.
Considering bunion surgery but are interested in more natural options? Try a bunion brace such as Bunion Bootie. We also offer other bunion treatment options such as bunion balm and essential oils for bunions.
Why a Bunion Brace?
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons/OrthoInfo, a bunion is a painful bump that develops at the big toe joint on the inside of the foot. Bunions are frequently referred to as hallux valgus and can develop slowly due to pressure placed on the big toe joint. This results in the big toe leaning toward the second toe, compromising the normal structure of the bone. Ultimately a bony bump known as a bunion is formed. Over time, deformities such as bunions will increase, making it more difficult to walk or even wear shoes comfortably.
Bunions can be caused by a variety of factors, including inherited defects, foot injuries, arthritis, lifestyle choices, shoe choice, etc. Wearing appropriate footwear and taking precautions are always recommended. But in addition, bunion braces or inserts can be very effective in making the bunion sufferer more comfortable. Since surgery is usually only recommended when the pain can no longer be tolerated, easing the discomfort of the bunion can often mean delaying or avoiding surgery.
Several notable experts in the field list bunion braces or over-the-counter supports as a form of treatment;
Mayo Clinic – “shoe inserts can help distribute pressure evenly when you move your feet, reducing your symptoms and preventing your bunion from getting worse. Over-the-counter supports can provide relief for some people; others require prescription orthotic devices”.
Harvard Health – “A clinician may recommend semisoft orthoses (shoe inserts) to help position the foot correctly as it strikes the ground. You can also wear a splint at night to hold the toe straight and ease discomfort.”
MedicineNet – A bunion splint may also help if the condition is still in its early stage with minimal deformity. Splints help to place the toe in a corrected position, while stretching tight soft tissue structures. Night splints are used while sleeping and splint booties can be worn inside a shoe.”
Cleveland Clinic – “Use shoe inserts to help position the foot correctly. These can be over-the-counter arch supports or prescription orthotic devices.”
OrthoInfo – “To take pressure off your bunion, your doctor may recommend that you wear over-the-counter shoe inserts (orthotics). In some cases, a splint worn at night that places your big toe in a straighter position may help relieve pain.”
Bunions develop slowly. Pressure on the big toe joint causes the big toe to lean toward the second toe. Over time, the normal structure of the bone changes, resulting in the bunion bump. This deformity will gradually increase and may make it painful to wear shoes or walk. Bunion braces, or bunion splints can help to reposition the big toe back to a more anatomically correct position, positively effecting balance, gait and brings relief to neighboring toes.