Bunions are a foot ailment that leads to a degree of disability for certain people. It appears as a bump at the base of the big toe. It results when the big toe moves inside towards the first toe, with the joint of the big toe forced to go outwards. Frequently, bunions result when people wear shoes that have a narrow toe box, while in others it results from arthritis and can even be hereditary. Typically, the friction between the toes causes the big toe to become red and sore, with callus and blisters possibly developing as well. If the condition becomes serious, then it has to be surgically repaired.
Top 5 Best Bunion Correctors: Editor’s Pick
If you ask anyone who has suffered from bunions previously, they will tell you the extent of pain they have passed through. However, the surgery for Bunion and recovery following the surgery is even more painful and can be depressing considering that rehabilitation is a long process. Thankfully, there are several natural ways of preventing this, such as utilizing the best bunion splints. Using the best and most appropriate bunion corrector can save you the cost and pain of undergoing bunion surgery.
This is because it reduces the friction between the big toe and other toes, thereby reducing pain and allowing you to easily engage in your daily tasks and even exercises. This article will provide in-depth details of the best bunion correctors available on the market today. You will also learn how to choose the best bunion corrector as well as how to differentiate between bunion pads and sleeves.
Best Bunion Corrector Reviews:
1. Bunion Corrector and Bunion Care Kit for Tailors Bunion
This Bunion corrector kit is exactly what you need to ease the pain from your bunion and realign toes gradually. It will also improve the general health of your foot daily because of its professional design and excellent kit package. This bunion corrector package comes with six items, all designed to correct your bunion and get your foot back to perfect conditions. The included items are a spiky massage ball; two, standard spacer; two, gel pads bunion protector sleeves; 1, user manual; 2, toe separator with bunion guard; 1, big toe exercise strap.
The protector sleeve is made with a durable soft gel pad, allowing it to act as a cushion to protect the painful bunion area from rubbing against your footwear. By so doing, the pain is relieved immediately. The essence of the spiky foot massage ball is for you to exercise your foot, thereby improving foot health by removing the deep seated muscle tightness of your foot. It can also be used as a treatment for plantar fasciitis.
The bunion corrector material is light, thin and has excellent elasticity. It also has a bandaid by the side of the big toe (the bunion area) thereby relieving your foot pain. Furthermore, its toe separator is made of soft silicone, so that you will not feel the discomfort between the toes, while the toe separator is working to bring your toe back to its natural position. Thus, you can even wear it at night while sleeping. Another great way of realigning your toes is by using the exercise strap that comes with the kit to exercise your toes.
Thus, this bunion corrector kit is perfect for correcting bunion, aligning your toes back to previous position and massaging your foot muscle. Don’t worry about the kit getting dirty because the materials used to make them (rubber, elastic fiber as well as medical quality gel) allows you to wash and clean the kits.
Highlighted Features
- Materials are durable, washable and easy to clean
- Comfortable toe separator made of soft silicone
- Cushioning pad prevents uncomfortable friction against footwear
- Elastic, light and thin bunion corrector
2. Bunion Corrector & Bunion Relief Protector Sleeves Kit
This kit has seven professionally selected pieces that are meant to correct your bunion and provide bunion relief. The different pieces within the have varying uses but are all meant to return your toes to optimal health. When you use this kit, you will experience complete and fast pain relief, your bunion will be treated adequately, the friction that exists between your toes will be reduced and you can walk freely and engage in exercises and your toes will be stretched and aligned.
The bunion separator material is elastic, light and thin, with a super soft gel by the side of the big toe thereby preventing the bunion area from rubbing against your footwear. Also, the toe separator is made of soft gel, so that you will not feel the discomfort between the toes, while the toe separator is working to bring your toe back to its natural position. You can also strengthen the muscles that are responsible for keeping your big toes straight by using the big toe exercise strap.
The kit also includes an excellent toe spacer that is meant to realign your big toe; this can be worn with or without a shoe. Also, the toe separator gel is designed with a bunion guard which is ideal if you have to wear tight shoes; it prevents your bunion from getting irritated. Another feature that is incorporated into the gel separator is air holes which makes it breathable.
Highlighted Features
- Ideally designed toe separators
- Seven pieces of carefully selected pieces in the kit
- Made of 100% medical quality silicone
- Materials are soft, stretchable and easy to clean
- One size fits most people
3. Bunion Splint by Vive [Pair] – Toe Straightener & Corrector Brace Pad
This bunion splint is made in pairs, which means you will get one bunion splint for each foot. Since bunions commonly affect both feet, this is very thoughtful of the makers. Also, it is designed with an aluminum brace which is meant to provide constant but gentle pressure on the big toe, thereby realigning it to its normal position and preventing the formation or growth of bunions. This bunion splint is also able to reduce the pain and discomfort that result from inward curving big toe and bunions.
The material used to make the Vive bunion splint is a breathable terry cloth, which is breathable and very lightweight. Therefore, it can be comfortably worn under the socks and is suitable for several shoe styles. The material makes it comfortable to wear the splint all day and even all through the night. The lightweight and breathable Vive splint material are able to decrease inflammation and pressure to the bunion, resulting in total relieve of bunion pain.
Furthermore, the Vive bunion splint comes in a flexible size that is able to fit most people without slipping off or bunching in the middle. This is because it has a fully and easily adjustable strap that is secured to the body of the splint using a square latch. Thus, you do not have to worry about this bunion splint slipping off your feet when walking or bunching uncomfortably inside your shoes.
All these features make the Vive bunion splint the best bunion splint available on the market today. However, to ensure that you get the best out of this splint, it is advisable that you wear the splint for short periods initially so you can get used to it gradually. Also, ensure that you adjust the strap to be firm, this will make the splint fit better and results in greater comfort and more effective bunion relieve.
Highlighted Features
- Corrects bunion and alleviates pain without being uncomfortable
- Size can be adjusted
- Can be kept clean by washing in cold water
- Material is lightweight and breathable
- Can be worn all day and night
4. Dortz® Orthopedic Bunion Corrector
The Dortz bunion splint is specially designed to decrease bunion pain and help you return to your normal daily activities. Its thoughtful ergonomic design replicates the structure of the foot, thereby allowing the splint to correct the deformity to your big toe with ease and comfort. Also, by replicating the structure of your foot, it gives them a natural outline. The best quality materials such as silicone, medical grade textiles and integrated metal plate are utilized to make this splint.
If you have not yet developed hallus Valgus (you big toe curving inwards towards the other toes), this splint is perfect for you. Apart from providing relief of pain and correction of already developed hallux valgus, it also prevents your toes from curving inwards (hallux valgus). Owing to its ergonomic design, you can wear this splint throughout the day and even while sleeping without any discomfort. As a matter of fact, you will still be able to move your toes and feet normally even when the splint is keeping the toes in proper alignment.
The Dortz splint comes with professionally selected 5 pieces in each kit set. Also, one size is perfect for people of various feet sizes. If you want to be discreet, this splint can be worn under stockings, shoes and socks without anyone noticing that you are wearing something extra. Moreover, you can wear the splint with all type of shoes, including your favorite pair.
Highlighted Features
- Metal rod that runs through the middle for secure fixation
- Three adjustable straps
- One size fits most feet
- Undetected under socks and shoes
- Excellent ergonomic design replicates foot anatomy
5. Dr. Frederick’s Original 14 Piece Bunion Pad & Spacer Kit
Dr. Frederick’s bunion splint has 14 various items that are specially designed to correct the bunion deformity and reduce your pain. The items in the kit include: two standard shield spacers which is the daily bunion pad that is worn with shoes and all you need do is ensure the shield is aligned to your bunion and loop it around your big toe; six gel toe separators for preventing all the toes from coming into contact with one another, two sports shield spacers which is specially designed for sports activities, with the two stretchy loops which hold the big and second toe, thereby preventing any rotation of the shield spacer while you are doing sports activities; two standard shield spacers which are also designed for active people and can be worn with or without shoes as well as two sport toe separators.
All these components that are included in the kit are made with medical quality gel and thus are soft and stretchy. Also, they are designed to deliver light pressure at the big toe, thereby gently realigning your big toe to its normal position when you are barefooted or wearing shoes. The makers of these bunion pads and cushions which rank among the best bunion pads are medical professionals and they understand that when the alignment of the big toe is improved and the affected toes are separated, then your bunion pain will be relieved.
Furthermore, Dr. Frederick’s bunion kit was carefully developed with input from top specialists within the field of orthopedics, which is why you can be sure that you are wearing a professionally designed bunion pad and spacer. With the understanding that you don’t want to be sedentary because of bunion pain, Dr. Frederick’s bunion pad and spacer are designed to allow you to engage in your activities with the bunion well padded and spaced to prevent pain and discomfort. Also, the kit has pads and spacers for those times you need to rest.
Highlighted Features
- Comes with 14 different bunion pads and spacers
- Allows you to maintain an active lifestyle
- Can be worn barefoot or with shoes
- Designed by medical professionals
- Made with medical quality gel
- Soft and stretchy
6. Bunion Corrector & Bunion Relief Protector Kit
This product is the result of many years of research by a team of medical professionals, dedicated to discovering the best solution for your bunion pain and deformity. Thus, this bunion splint has undergone series of tests to ensure that it relieves your bunion pain and corrects any deformity to your big toe, doing so in a comfortable manner.
What most people look out for in a good bunion splint is its construction, cushioning ability and ability to maintain comfortable pressure on the bunion joints. This bunion splint by Ksprot has all that and more, which is why it is the best bunion splint available on the market today. It is designed with a 3-point pressure mechanism which both reduces pressure on the bunion and comfortably holds the head of the big toe in place to make walking and running easier. Also, its excellent design ensures that the Velcro band is durable, soft and comfortable on the skin.
Furthermore, you do not have to worry about the sizing because it is a one size fits all design. You have absolute control over the amount of tension the Velcro has on the big toe. Also, it is made in such a way that those little bunions may appear near your tiny toes are taken care of before they get out of hand. The only downside to this bunion splint is that it cannot be worn with shoes or sneakers.
Highlighted Features
- Durable and easy to clean
- Mostly worn at night
- Adjustable and comfortable Velcro bands
- Made with medical quality plastics
- One size fits all
7. Bunion Corrector and Bunion Relief Orthopedic Bunion Splint Pads for Men and Women
If you have been suffering bunion pain for a long time but want to avoid surgery, worry no more because your solution is here. Alayna’s bunion splint which is the result of many years of research delivers a natural and painless bunion pain relief. As a matter of fact, it is highly recommended by well-renowned doctors and podiatrists around the globe. The splint is made from medical grade material and you don’t have to worry about getting skin irritations while wearing it.
Its design takes into consideration the anatomy of the foot and ensures you are comfortable even if you wear it for 24 hours. First of all, it features an adjustable strap around the big toe, helping to realign the big toe to its normal position. It also has a flexible hinge to ensure that your foot remains mobile while you are wearing the splint. Around the arch of the foot, the splint has a double strapping mechanism meant to give stability to the arch. Also, the makers of this splint know that under the foot has to be comfortable, which is why they included a soft pad to provide support to the transverse arch. In addition to all these excellent and thoughtful features, the material is soft and breathable, further adding to your comfort.
With the comfortable padding of this bunion splint, you can wear it throughout the day and even all night. Hence, this bunion splint is for those that desire comfort and correct realignment of their toes.
Highlighted Features
- Easy to wash and keep clean
- Well padded and comfortable
- Made with medical grade materials
- Can be worn all day and while sleeping
8. Dr. Frederick’s Original Nighttime Bunion Splints
This bunion splint by Dr. Frederick’s is specially designed to be used at night, ensuring that it does not interfere with your sleep while relieving bunion pain and correcting your toe deformity. As a matter of fact, it is possible to get both immediate relief from bunion pain and the realignment of the affected big toe.
Furthermore Dr. Frederick’s nighttime splint is designed with comfortable padding along with an adjustable realignment for its ergonomic toe wrap and bendable toe stabilizer bar. This works to keep your big toes straight and relieve your pain. The ergonomic toe wrap makes the splint fit your big toe perfectly, while the bendable toe stabilizer makes the splint to conform perfectly to your big toe. It is also possible to bend the splint’s stabilizer to offer greater inward torque to straighten your big toe.
Another excellent feature of this splint is that it is made with breathable to give you comfort when you wear it. As a matter of fact, it is comfortable enough to allow you to walk around the house while handing different chores during the day. Also, the material is can be washed as required, providing you with a healthy and hygienic experience.
However, it is advisable that you don’t pull your big toe out very much when you start using it. Pull slightly initially, so that it will not be uncomfortable or painful. Therefore, make it loose initially and tighten/pull more as your feet get accustomed to it.
Highlighted Features
- Allows you to walk easily while wearing it
- Perfect for nighttime pain reduction
- Comfortable padding
- Easy to adjust realignment
- Material is breathable and washable
9. Bunion Corrector Kit by ViveSole
The ViveSole bunion corrector kit comes with eleven pieces which are all professionally designed to offer incomparable relief from pain and discomfort resulting from bunions and other deformities such as crooked toes and Hallux Valgus. The kits include toe separators, toe stretchers, bunion protector sleeves and toe spacers. These kits are able to reduce friction and pressure between the toes and also decrease inflammation for total bunion pain relief.
Furthermore, the toe separators and bunion protector sleeves (made from gel) which are specially designed to reduce rubbing and friction can be worn all day and even while sleeping. For example, the bunion protector sleeves are made with gel and have air holes to make the feet remain cool and dry. The toe spacers and stretchers function to create spaces between the toes and strengthen the muscles which are important to keep the toes properly aligned. These features make this kit ideal for active individuals, since they will be comfortable through all their daily activities.
Another feature that makes this kit desirable is the materials that they are made from. For example, the sleeves, guards and spacers are produced with a nontoxic, latex-free gel making it soft and comfortable while offering corrective support and protection. The toe stretchers are made with stretchable neoprene material. The beauty of these kits is that they can be washed with a mild detergent if you intend to wear it for a long period. Furthermore, the kit can be worn either foot comfortably. You can also wear it with or without socks and it can fit perfectly into most shoe style.
Highlighted Features
- Soft and comfortable to wear
- Fits most shoe styles perfectly
- Can be hand washed with detergent
- Made from medical quality materials
- Perfect for post surgery pain relief
10. Bunion Corrector and Bunion Relief Sleeve with Gel Bunion Pads
Do not put your life on hold because of bunion pain when Alayna has designed the perfect solution for you. This bunion protector and toe straightener is perfectly made to guarantee long-lasting relief from bunion pain and also correct any deformity to your toes. It has cushions around the bunion area which makes it comfortable to be worn by professional athletes and people who are on their feet all day e.g. nurses.
The cushion is produced with EuroNatural gel to also protect the sensitive bunion site from rubbing against your shoe while walking and exercising. This means that you can enjoy all your daily activities, including work and exercise without fear of pain and discomfort.
Furthermore, the Alayna bunion sleeve is not rigid like other bunion splints, pads and braces which do not allow you to wear shoes. This bunion sleeve can be worn with any type of shoes with ease and comfort, without anyone noticing that you have something inside your shoes. Thus, you can still look good while the bunion sleeve does its job.
Also, the Alayna bunion sleeves provide a secure fit and you do not have to worry about the sleeve slipping out of your foot. It is a one size fits all and can be worn comfortably by men and women. Another excellent feature of this bunion sleeve is that it is made from durable, medical quality materials. This means that you do not have to worry about getting unwanted skin irritations. Also, you can wash the sleeve as required without any damage to its effectiveness.
Highlighted Features
- Comfortable to wear all day
- Can be worn with any type of shoe
- Perfect for active people
- Snug fitting
Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Choosing Bunion Correctors
Before purchasing a bunion splint or bunion corrector, there are certain things you must take into consideration so you buy exactly what you need. Here are a few things to consider before you decide which bunion splint or corrector to buy:
Thickness of protective layer
When deciding which bunion corrector to buy, consider the thickness of its protective layer because it will guard against friction or scraping when you wear it, and at the same time be able to fit in your shoes. Remember that sleeves or toe separators/straighteners are more visible with sandals or open toe shoes and as such it is better to consider bunion pads or cushions.
Extent of Misalignment
It is critical to consider the extent or severity of your misalignment when you are seeking for the best bunion corrector. In a lot of people, bunions result in very misaligned toes. This is why many of the sleeves or pads on the market now include toe separators or splints to assist in realigning your toes even though this makes the sleeve heavier. Toe separators may also make the sleeve less flexible, thus ask your doctor if they are necessary for your foot.
Think about hygiene
Most bunion correctors utilize low quality and cheap materials, which is why they harbor bacterial and fungal infections if you do not take proper care of them. Hence, it is important to look into the hygiene of bunion corrector when purchasing one. The bunion corrector/splints listed in this review are some of the best and most hygienic.
Look for Comfort
The main job of bunion corrector’s is to reduce pain and provide relief. Hence, it is important to get a bunion corrector/splint that is comfortable and easy to use.
Durability
Most people have to make use of bunion correctors for several months if they are to achieve long-term results. This is why it is imperative to look for a durable and well-built bunion corrector.
Usage
It is of utmost importance to consider how you are going to use the bunion corrector before buying it. For instance, if you intend to use the bunion splint all day, it means that you have to go for a bunion corrector that can easily fit into any footwear easily. Similarly, if you intend to wear the bunion corrector only at night, then look for a bunion corrector that is specially designed for night time use.
Comfort
If you are not comfortable with the bunion corrector, then you should not be wearing it. An uncomfortable bunion corrector can make your bunion worse than it is presently. Therefore, even if your bunion is severe, get a gentler bunion sleeve rather than a toe separator for greater comfort.
Cost
No matter your budget, you will get a bunion corrector that is perfect for you. Lots of the bunion correctors available today are priced for between £2 and £24. When buying a certain product, make sure you check whether the package contains one or two correctors.
Symptoms of Bunions
Pain resulting from bunions can be debilitating, leading to people having issues with walking and distorting the normal curvature of the foot. In certain cases, there is a reddening on the skin around the bunion. This is why it is important that you recognize when you have a bunion. You can do this if you have an idea of the symptoms of a bunion. They include:
- Soreness, swelling or redness around the joint of the big toe
- A bulge or bump on the outer part of the base of your big toe
- Callus or corns which develop at the point where the first and second toe overlap
- Constant or intermittent pain on the big toe joint
- If your toe is affected by arthritis, then you will experience restricted movement
It is important to note that bunions will only get worse if you do not treat it effectively. Therefore, it is better to prevent further damage by using a splint early.
What Causes Bunions?
Bunion is caused by various medical illnesses which affect the body’s connective tissue such as cerebral palsy and marfan syndrome. Also, people who have a family history of bunions are more likely to develop bunions. Furthermore, different types of arthritis can cause bunions, while arthritis can also be a result of bunions. The types of arthritis that can cause bunions include rheumatoid arthritis, gout arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. There is no concrete evidence that tight or uncomfortable shoes can cause bunions, leading to continuous argument among foot specialists and doctors. Some people are concerned that high heels can lead to bunions; if you are in this category, it is advisable to wear a roomy pair of sneakers a few times each week to allow your toes some amount of freedom.
What Are The Benefits of Using a Bunion Corrector?
Even though bunions are not hereditary themselves, there may be a fault in your bone structure that was passed down from your family line. A faulty bone structure along with not carrying out proper foot care can lead to the pain and discomfort of bunions. Therefore, taking excellent care of your feet can prevent the bunion from developing on your foot. Hence, if you know that you have a family history of the bunion, then wearing a bunion corrector will likely protect you from developing a bunion. If on the other hand your toes are already deformed or misaligned, then a bunion corrector is the best solution to allow you to wear shoes that will otherwise have been impossible to wear. There are different types of bunion correctors that you can use to ease your pain and we will look at them subsequently.
Types of Bunion Correctors
There are 3 major types of bunion correctors available on the market today. Certain types come in the form of bunion relief kits and may contain two or more types to deliver more effective pain relief and to aid correction.
Bunion Sleeve or Splint
The sleeve is the commonest means of relieving bunion pain. It is similar to a physical brace utilized on other joints in the body, making you feel comfortable throughout the day while it realigns your deformed toe to its normal position. Sleeves are typically produced from thin and soft yet strong and supportive fabrics which can be worn discreetly under socks and with several types of shoes, including sneakers. It is advisable to go for the best bunion corrector sleeve as it will enable you to move your foot comfortably and allow you to carry out your daily and physical activities with ease.
Bunion Toe Separator
Toe separators are easy-to-use and flexible correctors which are placed between the toes to prevent them from touching each other. They are highly recommended if you want to naturally correct your bunions considering that it is a simple process which relieves bunion pain almost instantly.
Bunion Toe Straightener
A lot of people with bunions suffer a deformity of the big toes which sometimes lead to hammertoes deformity. They are very painful and uncomfortable. To realign your toes back to their correct or normal position, you will need to wear a toe straightener which will gently and gradually pull the affected toe outwards. They are very comfortable, strong, simple to use and are perfect for individuals who cannot wear regular shoes owing to deformity of their toes.
What is the Difference Between Bunion Pads and Sleeves?
Bunion pads and sleeves have a lot of things in common. However, the major difference is that bunion sleeves cover a larger area around your foot, while bunion pads are smaller and are specially designed to cover your bunion. Certain people prefer one over another, but both perform similar functions. For instance, certain persons may prefer bunion pads since they are discreet and can be worn with several styles of footwear while others like sleeves because they can be worn as a regular sock, are more comfortable and do not fall off easily.
Final Verdict
The bunion correctors and splints in this bunion corrector reviews can be used for relieving pain, inflammation and pressure to the bunion. Before you decide which bunion corrector to buy, look at the buying guide to help you make the best decision. Furthermore, consider your activity level and whether or not you want to wear the bunion corrector at night only or all through the day. That said, the recommendations in this review are meant to serve as a guide for you to make a final decision on the type of bunion corrector to buy. Notwithstanding whether you already have this knowledge, this review will remind you of the best bunion correctors available or those that you must consider the next time you want to buy a bunion corrector or splint.