A bunion is an uncomfortable bony bump that grows on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. They can be caused by genetics or result from foot injuries. They are more prevalent in older adults, as they become more common as we age.

Anyone who has dealt with bunions before knows how painful they can be. The more stress put on the feet, the more painful a bunion can become. Knowing how to treat a bunion is not always straightforward. However, a bunion corrector can provide incredible relief to those suffering from bunions.

How Do Bunion Correctors Work?

While it’s possible to remove bunions completely, many seek immediate relief from the pain. To alleviate symptoms, the most viable treatment are bunion correctors. A bunion corrector is a non-invasive brace that is worn on the foot, and is intended to straighten the big toe. 

Bunion correctors are often used by those dealing with bunions, but there are questions about their effectiveness. So, do bunion correctors work? The answer is not so simple.

Do Bunion Correctors Work?

If the question is whether or not bunion correctors work at curing or removing bunions, the answer is no. When it comes to eliminating bunions completely, the only truly effective method is bunion surgery.

However, if the question is whether or not bunion correctors work at treating pain, the answer is usually yes. Most people who use a bunion corrector report experiencing less pain throughout the day. Wearing a bunion corrector helps stabilize the big toe, which causes less stress on the foot when walking or running. Chronic pain caused by bunions is the most impactful symptom reported by those who suffer from them. Any treatment that reduces that pain provides tremendous relief to patients.

‍Other Bunion Treatment Options

Other treatment options to help manage the pain caused by bunions include switching to wider or more comfortable shoes. It’s also a good idea to invest in shoe inserts. Alongside this, patients can use regular pain treatment methods such as icing the foot, or taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.

As for treating bunions directly, surgery is often the only completely effective method.

Best Bunion Corrector Surgery

The best bunion corrector solution is through surgery. The surgical procedure to remove a bunion depends on how severe the bunion is. The procedure involves making a small incision to remove swollen tissue and re-align the big toe. In minor cases, the incision is small and the procedure can be done in under one hour. However, more severe cases require a longer surgical procedure.

Patients are able to return home the same day as their bunion surgery. However, patients are advised not to put too much pressure on their foot for a while following surgery. Most patients will wear a boot to help support the foot. This also helps to keep weight off the foot for the several weeks following surgery, allowing the bones to heal. The exact length of this recovery time will vary depending on the severity of the surgery.

When To Seek Bunion Treatment

How do you know when it’s time to seek treatment, rather than relying on pain management options like a bunion corrector? The answer to this will vary for everyone.

You should seek bunion surgery when the recovery time is preferable to the pain and discomfort caused by the bunion. Generally, doctors recommend seeking treatment when you are experiencing chronic pain and swelling in the foot. Non-invasive methods can help minimize pain for a long time, but they only offer temporary relief. If you reach a point where the pain is severe and long-lasting, other treatment options are likely necessary.

Diablo Foot & Ankle has two convenient California locations in Walnut Creek and Antioch. Contact us to learn more about bunion treatment options today.