Can Bunion Correctors Actually Solve the Problem?

Are you familiar with the discomfort felt on the side of your big toe every time you put your foot in your favorite pair of wedges or boots? Or the irritation you get from doing box jumps as part of your regular HIIT exercise? These are just some of the experiences you might have if you have a bunion. Certain types of shoes and weight-bearing movements can cause intense throbbing in the area of your foot where the bunion is located.

Casey Pidich, D.P.M., a podiatrist based in New York City, explains that "Bunions, or hallux valgus, are the result of a big toe joint misalignment. They often lead to the formation of a bony prominence or 'bump' on the inner side of the foot. Typical symptoms include pain, swelling, discomfort, and redness around the joint."

Dr. Pidich further notes that the affected toe can become stiff and painful, affecting your stance and walking. It may also limit the types of shoes you can wear. Enter bunion correctors – non-surgical and non-invasive answers to addressing the painful bulge. However, do bunion correctors actually work, or should you pursue a different treatment option altogether?

Contrary to what their name might suggest, bunion correctors don't necessarily correct bunions. Rather, they can be thought of as over-the-counter accessories for stabilization. They provide temporary relief from discomfort and can help slow the progression of the deformity. They do this by realigning the big toe, supporting the joint, and reducing inflammation and pressure, according to Miguel Cunha, D.P.M., a New York City-based podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare.

There are several types of bunion correctors available, allowing you to choose the most comfortable for you. Some can be worn within your socks and shoes, while others should be worn without footwear at home.

Dr. Pidich reveals that research into the effectiveness of bunion correctors in relieving pain and realigning the big toe is somewhat inconclusive. Nevertheless, some studies suggest they can be helpful. However, it's worth noting that some of the studies reviewed for this research had missing data and errors.

The researchers from a similar study published in Arthritis Care & Research also raised questions about the effectiveness of non-surgical interventions for bunions. Many of the 18 studies they reviewed contained small sample sizes, leading to mixed – or inconsistent – results.

The key takeaway is that the effectiveness of bunion correctors varies depending on the individual and the severity of the deformity. While Dr. Pidich's patients have reported feeling relief while wearing bunion correctors, she emphasizes that these benefits are temporary. Both experts agree that such devices cannot permanently correct or reverse a bunion or the biomechanical imbalance it may cause.

If your goal is to correct a bunion permanently, Dr. Cunha suggests that surgery is likely your only option. But if you're looking for relief from discomfort, there are non-surgical approaches that may prove helpful. For example, custom orthotics can provide arch support and help relieve bunion pressure. Regular physical therapy can also enhance foot function. In addition to this, therapeutic steroid injections during in-office visits can help reduce pain and inflammation in bunions. Topical medications, cold therapy (ice), and certain stretches can further help alleviate discomfort.

Ultimately, Dr. Pidich advises an appointment with a specialist. Podiatrists can assess the severity of a bunion, consider lifestyle factors, and recommend a tailored treatment plan and footwear.

While bunion correctors can offer temporary relief for some people, they can't address the root cause of a bunion. Most bunions are primarily genetic and nearly impossible to prevent. But if you're considering giving bunion correctors a try, make sure they fit well to avoid causing further discomfort.

There are numerous treatments for managing life with a bunion. Consider shoes with good arch support and a wide toe box, and avoid tight-fitting footwear to minimize rubbing and friction on the bunion.