Custom Orthotics: Do They Help with Bunions?

A bunion is a bony bump that develops on the side of the foot near the big toe. Since bunions protrude, they can cause much pain and discomfort during the day as the interior of the shoes rub against them. One effective method for alleviating bunion pain and discomfort is custom orthotics. The experienced podiatrists at Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID, treat bunions and can fit you for custom orthotics that are tailor-made for your feet. 

Bunions

Bunions result from a bone deformity in which the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of place and ultimately becomes enlarged. The dislocation or shifting out of place of the joint forces the big toe to slant toward the little toes. The bony end of the big toe joint then slants in the opposite direction and presses against the side of the foot, forming a hard, bony protrusion known as a bunion.

Several factors can cause bunions. One common cause is regularly wearing extremely tight or narrow shoes, such as women’s high heels. Other causes of bunions include arthritis, a foot or toe injury, and structural problems in the foot. 

In addition to the hard bump on the side of the foot, several other symptoms can develop. Bunion symptoms include:

• Limited mobility
• Stiffness of the big toe 
• Inflammation and redness
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness
• Corns and calluses on the toes 

How Custom Orthotics Alleviate Bunion Pain

One way to alleviate the pain and discomfort of bunions is to wear custom orthotics, which are tailor-made for your unique foot structure so they fit perfectly. Orthotics, also called orthoses, are devices worn inside shoes. They help by placing feet in the proper position to correct an irregular gait, such as overpronation, which can contribute to the development of bunions. Correcting foot positioning and gait can help alleviate pain and prevent or slow the progression of bunions.

Custom orthotics also help alleviate bunion pain by stabilizing the toe joint and redistributing pressure away from the affected joint. Additionally, custom orthotics relieve bunion pain and discomfort by providing cushioning so the interior of the shoes does not rub against the bunions and irritate and inflame them further. 

It is possible to purchase over-the-counter orthotics for bunions. However, those devices are one size fits all, so they are not likely to provide the exact cushioning, stability, and support needed. Custom orthotics are specifically designed for your feet, so they fit perfectly and address any issues relating to your unique foot structure. The skilled podiatrists at our offices in Boise, Nampa, and Meridian, ID, alleviate bunion pain with custom orthotics designed just for you. 

Custom orthotics can relieve daily pain and discomfort if you have developed bunions. For bunion treatment, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at one of our offices in Boise, Nampa, or Meridian, ID. Call (208) 327-0627 for Boise, (208) 463-1660 for Nampa, or (208) 888-9876 for the Meridian office.