Do you suffer from bunions? You are not alone. In fact, it is estimated that over 15 million Brits have a problem with bunions on at least one foot.
While your bunions may not feel debilitating right now, even a mild bunion will cause a lot of problems if it is left untreated. Therefore, finding the right bunion relief solution to manage the discomfort and prevent escalating damage should be high on your agenda.
Wearing a bunion corrector, also known as a Bunion Sleeve®, has become an increasingly popular choice. But is it the right option for you? Here’s all you need to know.
Understanding bunions
Before you consider buying a bunion corrector, it is important to ensure that your foot pain is actually a bunion. Bunions are characterised as bumps that form on the outside of the big toe, often over the course of several years. Bunions eventually push the big toe out of position and towards the second toe.
Their medical term is hallux abducto valgus, and they can be caused by foot mechanics or foot structure. They can also be attributed to injuries, family history, and inflammation illnesses while issues can be exacerbated by ill-fitting footwear or standing for long periods.
Bunions can also lead to calluses, reduced movement in the big toe, or numbness. The condition will worsen over time, which is why even a mild bunion requires your attention.
What is a Bunion Sleeve?
Bunion Sleeves® are a type of orthopaedic foot support designed to relieve foot pains caused by bunions, especially during active movements. The big toe separator works by gently repositioning the big toe into a more natural place while simultaneously using a micro pressure reduction hole on the big toe for added bunion relief.
The ultra-thin (0.4mm) design enables users to wear the Bunion Sleeve® with any footwear that they already own without losing comfort. While preventing and treating foot inflammation is an equally crucial step for anyone who has developed bunions, wearing a bunion corrector can be used to help manage the associated pain. Other key features include;
- A non-slip heel for added comfort and stability.
- It is designed to withstand heavy use, such as exercise.
- The design keeps your toe and foot in place.
- They can be worn again and again.
They should be viewed as a pain management tool orthopaedic product rather than a permanent treatment. A bunion corrector separates the big toe from the rest of the foot with a compartment solely for that toe while the rest of the toes are left uncovered. The material then wraps around the main part of the foot and heel like a standard trainer sock.
Will a big toe separator offer bunion relief?
Bunion Sleeves® are recommended by many leading orthopaedic surgeons and podiatrists for their patients, especially for anyone who suffers from mild to moderate bunions. They can be very effective at reducing pain in the area where toe ligaments have been pushed out of place. In turn, this may also prevent the need for more severe treatments like bunionectomy surgery or steroid injections. Likewise, it can help avoid the repeated use of painkillers.
Wearing a big toe separator can provide relief in several ways, including but not limited to;
- Reducing the strain on the tendons and ligaments of the big toe.
- Preventing the bump on the outside of your foot from rubbing against your shoe.
- Preventing stress placed on the second toe.
- Stopping the threat of your second toe rubbing onto the middle toe.
The natural alignment will create a more comfortable situation when standing or actively walking. Moreover, the Bunion Sleeve® can be safely worn all day long. In addition to providing daily bunion relief, it can protect you against the threat of mild or moderate bunion pain turning into profound pain.
Given that bunions become increasingly common with age, especially for women as almost 4 in10 over 60s experience them, using a bunion corrector for preventative reasons as well as managing mild symptoms can be very useful indeed.
Who can benefit from wearing a bunion corrector?
Individuals may wish to view a bunion corrector as a supportive product or as a base layer sock that keeps your big toe in place. Either way, they are very popular with users from a wide range of backgrounds. Crucially, they are particularly suited to active lifestyles with runners and walkers regularly turning to Bunion Sleeves® for pain relief.
The reviews show that they are loved by many users. Given the strong links between physical health issues and poor mental health, anyone who experiences disruption to their daily life as a result of bunions should take note. Some of the most common beneficiaries include but are not limited to;
- Doctors and nurses.
- Police enforcers and military workers.
- Factory workers.
- Anyone who spends a lot of hours on their feet.
Bunion Sleeves® can aid your physical and mental wellness while also helping you stay productive at work and more engaged with people and surroundings in recreational settings. In short, they can translate to a better quality of life with immediate and ongoing results.
When should you wear a bunion corrector?
A bunion corrector can be worn at any time, even when walking barefoot around the home. However, most users find that they are primarily worn during exercise or work shifts where a lot of walking or standing is anticipated. Likewise, if you are going for a long walk, it’s probably best to wear the bunion correctors to avoid chafing and unnecessary pressure on the toes and balls of your feet.
If you already experience more severe symptoms, it may be better to choose toe aligners.
Generally speaking, though, if you have mild to moderate bunions, the big toe corrector will be a great investment. Aside from giving pain relief, it can prevent further misalignment and even make a minor improvement to the current position thanks to the physiotherapy-like benefits of gently pushing it back into place.
To find out more about wearing a corrector to manage your bunion pains, get in touch today.