Custom Orthotics

Are Custom Orthotics Effective in Treating Bunions and Hammer Toes?

Bunions and hammer toes are common foot deformities that can cause considerable discomfort and affect one’s daily activities. These conditions can be painful, impact your mobility, and even alter the overall structure of your feet. While various treatment options are available, one approach that has gained popularity in recent years is custom orthotics. 

 

Proremedy Physio specializes in the treatment of custom orthotics. In this blog, we will explore the effectiveness of custom orthotics in treating bunions and hammer toes and how they can offer relief and improve your daily life.

What is Bunions and Hammer Toes?

Before we delve into the role of custom orthotics in treating bunions and hammer toes, let’s briefly understand these foot deformities:

Bunions:

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out and the toe to deviate towards the smaller toes. Bunion pain is a common complaint among bunion patients, and it can be exacerbated by daily activities that put pressure on the affected area. This includes walking, standing, and wearing ill-fitting shoes.

Hammer Toes:

Hammer toes are characterized by an abnormal bending of one or more toes, making them resemble a hammer. They can result from various factors, including genetics, tight footwear, or foot structure abnormalities. Hammer toes can also lead to pain and discomfort, especially during activities that involve toe movement.

Orthotics for bunion

How Custom Orthotics Work?

Now, let’s dive deeper into how custom orthotics work in treating bunions and hammer toes:

1. Addressing Foot Deformity:

Custom orthotics are designed to address the specific needs of the individual. They can realign the toes and encourage proper foot mechanics, which is crucial for patients with hammer toes and bunions, and save you from tight Shoes.

2. Correcting Gait Abnormalities:

Foot deformities can often lead to altered walking patterns and gait abnormalities. Custom orthotics can correct these issues, providing relief and preventing further complications.

3. Reducing Pressure and Friction:

The extra cushioning and support offered by custom orthotics reduce the pressure and friction on the affected areas, such as bunions. This, in turn, minimizes discomfort during daily activities.

4. Supporting the Arch:

Flat feet benefit from custom orthotics by providing adequate arch support, a common condition that can contribute to bunions and hammer toes. This helps in improving overall foot function and taking foot care.

5. Accommodating Bunion Braces:

For some bunion patients, bunion braces or splints are prescribed to help correct the deformity. Custom orthotics can be designed to accommodate these braces, enhancing their effectiveness.

Custom Orthotics: A Promising Solution

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that are tailored to an individual’s unique foot structure and specific condition. These orthotic insoles offer several benefits for individuals dealing with bunions and hammer toes.

1. Extra Cushioning and Support:

Custom orthotic inserts provide extra cushioning and support to the entire foot, helping to alleviate the discomfort associated with bunions and hammer toes. They can redistribute pressure, reducing the stress on the affected areas.

2. Correcting Foot Structure:

One of the key advantages of custom orthotics is their ability to correct foot structure abnormalities. They can assist in realigning the toes and promoting better arch support, which is essential in managing these foot deformities.

3. Reducing Bunion Pain:

For bunion patients, Custom-made orthotics s can offer significant relief from bunion pain. They can minimize discomfort during daily activities by cushioning the area around the bunion and ensuring that weight is distributed evenly across the foot.

Suggested Read : Orthotics: What They Are and How They Can Help Relieve Your Pain

4. Preventing Progression:

Custom orthotics can also help prevent the progression of bunions and hammer toes. Addressing the root causes and providing proper support may halt the worsening of these conditions.

Considerations When Using Custom Orthotics

While custom orthotics can be highly effective in treating bunions and hammer toes, it’s important to keep a few considerations in mind:

  • Professional Consultation: It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, before obtaining custom orthotics. They can assess your condition and physical exam and then guide you on the best treatment options.
  • Proper Fit: Custom orthotics are most effective when they are tailored to your individual needs. Ensure that they are accurately designed to address your specific foot structure and condition.
  • Regular Use: Consistency is key when it comes to using custom orthotics. Wearing them regularly, especially during daily activities, can lead to the best results.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: While custom orthotics can provide significant relief, it’s also important to consider lifestyle adjustments. This may include wearing appropriate footwear and avoiding high heels or narrow shoes.
  • Monitoring Progress: Regularly check in with your healthcare provider to monitor the progress of your condition and the effectiveness of custom orthotics. Adjustments or changes may be needed over time.

Conclusion:

Custom orthotics can help manage foot deformities like bunions and hammer toes by providing extra cushioning, support, and correction. They work best when used in conjunction with other treatments and a personalized treatment plan developed with a healthcare provider. For more information or guidance on managing foot conditions, consider reaching out to experts like Proremedy Physio.

Picture of Physiotherapist Arpan Hundal

Physiotherapist Arpan Hundal

Arpan has been practicing as a physiotherapist since 2010, starting her career in a trauma center in India where she worked with post-traumatic and post-operative cases. She moved to Canada and continued her independent practice, specializing in musculoskeletal, orthopaedic issues, sports injuries, and pelvic health physiotherapy. She has experience dealing with MVA and WSIB clients and has been working in the Mississauga community since 2015.

Picture of Physiotherapist Arpan Hundal

Physiotherapist Arpan Hundal

Arpan has been practicing as a physiotherapist since 2010, starting her career in a trauma center in India where she worked with post-traumatic and post-operative cases. She moved to Canada and continued her independent practice, specializing in musculoskeletal, orthopaedic issues, sports injuries, and pelvic health physiotherapy. She has experience dealing with MVA and WSIB clients and has been working in the Mississauga community since 2015.