Bunion is a bony enlargement at the base of the big toe. It can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight and pressing on the big toe joint.
Bunions are a common foot problem, affecting an estimated 10% of the population worldwide. They are most common in women, with female to male ratio as high as 9:1.
Bunions develop when the big toe joint is pushed towards the other toes by tight shoes or pressure from other parts of your foot. The bone at the base of your big toe starts to grow and curve outwards, causing pain and discomfort in this area.
The big toe affected by a bunion is straightened using a bunion splint. Many businesses claim that these gadgets treat bunion deformities. Unless the bunion is caused by soft tissue contraction, the gadgets may not be effective.
After surgery, a bunion splint is suggested to maintain the correction and prevent soft tissue contracture. It is also used to loosen the soft tissue around the joint before surgery. Bunion pads also soften the pressure of a shoe on the bunion.
