Fact Checked
A bunion is described as a bump that form alongside the bottom joint of the big toe. Once the big toe is under constant pressure in which the bones start to shift. The toe starts to slant inwards which causes the joint to distend outwardly.
Always bear in mind that bunions can be painful and tend to develop further over time. In severe cases, surgery might be required. The worsening of the bunions can be prevented by ensuring the use of braces inside shoes throughout the day and splinting at night. You can readily find variety of braces and splints in the market or you can create your own bunion brace.
Shoe brace
- You can hold a piece of thick felt or memory foam against the bunion. Slice a circle-sized felt or foam about 1 inch wider in diameter than the protuberance. Mark the boundary of the bump on the circle using a pencil.
- Cut through the line created to create a donut-shape. Hold the donut around the bunion and check its depth. In case the bunion is taller than the material, you have to cut another donut to match the first and glue the two together.
Always bear in mind that bunions can be painful and tend to develop further over time. - The individual should try on the shoes. Mark lightly the spot on the exterior of the shoe where the bunion spreads furthest. Take off the shoe and find the equivalent spot on the interior using your finger.
- Secure the donut to the interior of the shoe using glue specifically for fabrics. Before the glue is given enough time to set, position your finger within the donut and press outward, following the shape of the bunion. Check the mark on the exterior of the shoe to ensure that the brace is in the right price and adjust it if needed.
- Allow the fabric glue to dry before the shoes are used again. Once the shoes are worn, the foam or felt donut should cushion the bunion to protect it from pressure.
Night splint
- Cut out a piece of dense memory foam or felt to match the area amid the big toe and second toe. This must be inserted in between the toes so that it drives the big toe into regular alignment. In case this does not drive the big toe far enough, simply add an additional layer of foam or felt to add up the thickness.
- The individual should put on an old sock. Cut around the first 2 toes to create a fabric cap and then remove the rest of the sock.
- Using medical tape to wrap 1-2 times around the sock cap to secure the splint in place. Secure the tape above and beneath the bunion instead of straight on the bunion. The individual should sleep with the splint on to relieve the pain as well as prevent further damage.