Bunion Splint
A bunion looks like a bony bump growing out of the big toe. In fact, it’s actually inflammation at the site of tendons, muscles and joints all being pulled out of alignment. To correct a bunion or to successfully care for the site of a bunion after surgery a doctor might recommend a bunion splint.
A splint can be used for over-night correction, during the day to correct the bunion or a doctor might suggest using one after surgery.
A bunion splint worn at night should be roomy and comfortable. Despite its being used for correction of the bunion the night splint should have extra padding so a good night’s sleep is assured. Make sure that bunion splints being used over night are loose enough to allow good blood flow while you’re sleeping. A night bunion splint that’s not properly adjusted might actually cause puffiness and swelling.
A bunion splint worn during the day for correction should also be adjusted properly to allow good circulation of blood to all the toes, but still provide both support and correction to the big toe. For the first few uses of the splint for day time use only wear it for roughly 20 minutes or so. Gradually work up to a few hours of wearing the day bunion splint then begin wearing it throughout the day without interruption as you go about routine activities.
It’s important when wearing the bunion splint to have on the proper footwear. Only wear roomy comfortable shoes that still allow support for the entire foot. Of course, when bunions are the problem footwear should always be well fitted and never narrow at the toes or have a pronounced heel. The weight of the body should never be supported solely by the arch and ball of the foot, but be distributed evenly over the entire foot.
After surgery bunion splints are meant to protect the area of where the bunion caused damage. For a few days after surgery the foot should rest with no weight being placed on it if possible. After a few days, a bunion splint can be used to prevent damage from happening again. It’s usually necessary to use crutches for walking even with the bunion splint for a few days up to a week as you recover.