Lets face it one of the huge problems with bunions that causes a great deal of the discomfort is when the bunion knocks itself into the second toe. This can create callous and corn formation on the second toe and can contribute to the second toe elevating and becoming hammered. Now there are some splints and spacers that can be effective in preventing this situation. They are toe spacers that typically are inserted between the 2nd toe and the big toe. This action will straighten out the big toe while creating separation between the big toe and the second toe.
What do you look for in a quality bunion toe spacer?
1. The material- You do not want to use cheap material in a toe spacer. The problem with using cheap material is that this spacer will be placed under constant pressure from the big toe impinging the second toe. Poor material will fail and you will only get a week or so worth of work out of it. You really want at least a month out of a toe spacer. I highly recommend only looking at silicone when looking for quality toe spacers. Silicone is a strong material that can withstand the pressure placed on it from the big toe.
2. It has to work- If the toe spacer does not adequately space the toes it is of no use. Additionally you want a spacer that can help straighten your big toe, thus reducing the bunion deformity. Below I have listed what I think are the best Bunion Toe Spacers on the market.
Pediflex Gel Toe Spacers– If what you are looking for is a spacer and just a spacer, these Pediflex toe spacers can accomplish that task. These can easily be placed between the toe and will last a long time. The down side is these provide little to no straightening of the big toe or corrective action.
Toe Budy by Pediflex– Also from Pediflex these use straps along both toes to secure the spacer. Again, this is more effective than the spacer listed above but the corrective action provided for the bunion is minimal.
Dr. Rogo Gel Relief Bunion Pad– This is the spacer I recommend. Look at how this spacer loops around the big toe and provides padding at the site of the bunion for added protection. While maintaining a spacer between the 1st and 2nd toe it provides stability. The way this is designed it will also provide some straightening aspect for the big toe.
Dr. Rogo Gel Secure Strap– If you have had spacers fail in the past consider this one. This would be the Cadillac of spacers. If you do not want your toes to touch this would be the strap to get. This is one of the strongest and largest bunion spacers on the market.