Bunions Q&A with Dr. Handie: splints, tailor’s bunions, and more

Dr. Andronica Handie, DPM, answers common questions about the best pinkie toe (tailor’s bunion) splints, arch supports for bunions, and how to help correct bunions before resorting to surgery.

1. What is the best bunion splint for pinky toe (tailors) bunion? 

Dr. Handie: For most pinky toe bunions, we use #67060 from Ali Med. Ali Med (AliMed.com) provides both splints and pads to try before surgery.

Wide shoes are essential to reduce pressure at the sites.  

Also, many people get a standard, over-the-counter insert to assist in alignment and help stabilize the foot to help prevent advancement for pinky toe bunions.

If no improvement, an injection may help pinky toe bunions.

2. Can arch supports help bunions?  

Dr. Handie: Orthotics can definitely assist in balance and joint alignment to prevent advancement of many deformities. For example, Ali Med devices #66446.

3. Can I get rid of a tailor's bunion without surgery? 

Dr. Handie: There's a slight chance some bunions can correct. A splint nightly, #66634 from Ali Med.com, combined with the absolute discontinuance of wearing tight shoes at any point for months.

We hear this question from people months after surgery for bunions. Will the swelling and stiffness ever go away?

Dr. Handie: Swelling is common with any joint surgery. Sometimes it can last up to 12 months. To speed this issue up, we sometimes offer Physical Therapy (PT).

For some people, a light compression with coban may help resolve the swelling faster, lightly placed daily. Therapy may also be needed if range of motion has been reduced.

Get Rid of Bunion Pain and Get Back to Your Life

Are bunions making it hard for you to live your life? Do you have questions about your options? For decades, Tulsans struggling with pain from bunions and more have trusted Dr. Andronica Handie to get them back on their feet.

A board-certified foot and ankle specialist with decades of experience, his holistic approach focuses on finding and treating the root cause of pain.

Call us today at (918) 994-4000 (tel:(918)%20994-4000) and schedule an appointment with Dr. Handie to get all your questions answered.

Disclaimer: Comments above do not constitute medical advice. We encourage all readers to call with questions or to make appointments. (Or for emergencies, call 911).