How Long Does It Take for Bunion Splint to Correct

Bunions are a significant and potentially severe foot deformity. They look like a bump on the side of the big toe caused by the big toe deviating towards your second toe. The big toe joint protrudes outwards as it deviates, producing the bump. Today, we talk about how long does it take for a bunion splint to correct.

For many people, the bump is painless. However, if left untreated, the big toe will continue to drift, causing pain, calluses, and possibly a permanent deformity. Even if painless, many people find their bunions unsightly and wish to fix the problem.

That's where bunion splints come in. Many of our patients have read about bunion splints on the internet and wish to know if they work and how long it takes for a bunion splint to correct a bunion. We're answering both questions below.

Do bunion splints work?

 Yes. Bunion splints are an effective treatment for mild to moderate bunions. Such devices are unlikely to solve the problem completely, however. 

A bunion correction splint is a device that works to reduce big toe joint inflammation. Made from plastic, metal, or cloth, they can reduce discomfort and pressure and make walking easier. But bunions aren't solely about support. Placing the bunion under gentle pressure promotes healing and reduces swelling. 

You should not expect substantial change. Bunion splints' main application is to prevent bunion progression and help maintain correction postoperatively while the tendons, ligaments, and bones heal. Toe spacers can also be used to achieve similar results. 

When working with other devices, like orthotic and shoe modification, bunion splints can relieve pain and discomfort significantly. 

How long does it take for a bunion splint to correct

Bunion splints do not work instantaneously. You will need to wait between six to nine weeks to see a noticeable change in your condition. Even after this time, you will not see permanent changes with the bunion splint. For long-term results, the only effective treatment is a bunionectomy. 

However, bunion splints will provide pain relief and act as a preventative measure. Moreover, bunion splints can help stretch tendons and ligaments, break apart scar tissue, and improve your range of motion.

Bunion Correctors: What does the research say?

We've already mentioned that bunion correctors aren't especially effective in realigning your big toe. Here's how we know.

In a 2020 study, 70 people were treated with a toe splint or received no treatment. Upon follow-up, the two groups had no difference in big toe alignment. However, people in the splint group did experience less pain when walking, running, or resting.

Meanwhile, an older 2008 study found that women wearing toe-separating insoles versus a night splint did not see any change in big toe angle. The women wearing toe separators did experience pain reduction, whereas those wearing splints did not.  

Types of bunion splint

Bunion correction splints come in all shapes and sizes – speak to your podiatrist about being fitted for one. There are two primary types of bunion splints: soft gel and hard plastic.

• Soft gel splints are durable and comfortable. They are designed to promote healing and reduce swelling while supporting those in significant pain.

• Hard plastic splints increase the support of the joint. Many advanced models are hinged to fit your precise foot shape, using a 3-point pressure system to slow progression. They also contain foam to provide comfort and protection for the bunion.

In addition to bunion splints, you can also try toe spacers. These devices fit between the big and second toes to prevent further drift. Like splints, they do not produce long-term results but can stop callus formation (where the big toe rubs against the second toe) and reduce bunion progression.

Other helpful medical devices

Podiatrists will always avoid surgery where possible. Conservative management of bunions involves the use of pain medications, like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, and medical devices. These include:

• Foot orthotics. Orthotics come in a variety of forms. They're usually worn to relieve pressure on the affected joint. Some people claim they provide pain relief, though the scientific evidence is equivocal.

• Specialized footwear. Though bunions are increasingly regarded as a genetic condition, poor footwear does play a role in its progression. Specialized shoes can help reduce bunion progression and provide pain relief to those affected by the condition.

Speak to your podiatrists about bunion splints

Bunion splints will not reverse your big toe misalignment. They can help in slowing progression and relieving pain. If you want to explore these medical devices, speak to your podiatrists about finding a bunion splint that's right for you. You may also want to try another correction or relief device to relieve your bunion pain and discomfort.