Bunions are enlargements of joints that are located at the base or the side of the big toe. These enlargements form whenever the big toe moves out of place. As the toe continues to move toward the other toes, the lumps or bunions can become larger and more painful. Eventually, stiffness of the toe and arthritis can develop. While the initial or beginning stages of a bunion may not be painful, the more they progress the more painful they can become. There may also be swelling and redness near or at the joint. Pain is typically present because of pressure placed on the bunion from shoes as well as pain that resembles arthritis pain that comes from pressure inside the affected joint. Moving the joint even the slightest bit can become very painful over time. In addition, pressure placed on the other toes from the affected big toe can cause corns to develop between the toes or on the outside of the smallest toe. This can also result in painful movement of the toes.
Hammer toes are very common in those with bunions and typically develops on the toe closest to the big toe. Ingrown toenails on affected toes are also very common in those who have bunions. Treatments involving a bunion night splint have shown to be very effective in decreasing pain and provide slight correction in the bunions. They help to keep the joints mobile and make it much easier to move the affected toe in those who have serious cases of the disorder. Wearing a night splint provides significantly more comfort than not splinting the toes at all and can help to stretch the tendons that are often shortened because of bunions. These splints are very easy to use and are typically very inexpensive. In addition, they can provide a great deal of relief from the pain associated with bunions.
It is important to understand that while a bunion night splint will provide relief from pain as well as aid in other symptoms of bunions, they will not completely cure a bunion. A doctor should be consulted if you have bunions to determine whether or not you need surgery to repair the disorder. You should also seek the help of a physician in purchasing the proper footwear to prevent bunions from becoming worse or recurring once they are gone.
If you do wear a bunion night splint, you should consider having more than one set particularly if you are going to wear the splint every night. You want to be certain that you have a clean splint and one that works properly at all times. Due to their low cost, it is very possible to purchase several sets even on the tightest of budgets. You should note that it is not recommended to wash a night splint in any way that is not recommended by the manufacturer. There are directions for cleaning included in bunion night splints. Be certain that you follow these directions carefully to prevent damage to your splint.
Bunions are typically caused by wearing shoes that do not fit properly. If your shoes are too tight and squeeze your toes together, you are at risk for developing bunions. Women are much more likely to develop bunions than men, particularly since women typically wear much more narrow shoes and are more likely to wear shoes that are considered too tight. Bunions have been found to develop however on those who do not wear shoes. Studies have been done on many communities that do not wear shoes and even though it is a very uncommon occurrence, bunions have developed. The best way to protect yourself from developing bunions is to ensure that your shoes always fit correctly. Never wear shoes that are too tight and that feel uncomfortable. If you do develop bunions, see your doctor as soon as possible to keep the condition from worsening and invest in a pair, or several pairs of bunion night splints to help with the pain and to ensure that your joints stay protected.
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