Bunion and hammer toe products fall into three groups. Cushions and shields pad a sore spot so it rubs less against the shoe. Spacers and straighteners sit between or under the toes to keep them apart or ease them toward a straighter position while you wear shoes. Regulators are splints worn while resting or sleeping that hold the big toe in position. These products are for comfort inside your shoes and while you rest; they do not replace a visit to a podiatrist, especially if a toe is painful, red or changing shape.
Products at a glance
| Type | What it does | When it is worn | Examples we carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bunion shield | Felt or gel pad over the bunion joint to absorb pressure and friction | In shoes, during the day | Bunion Shield Universal |
| Bunion guard with spacer | Gel guard over the joint plus a spacer between the first and second toes | In shoes, during the day | Visco-GEL Dual-Action Bunion Fix |
| Bunion regulator | Splint that holds the big toe in position | While resting or sleeping | PediFix Bunion Regulator, left and right |
| Toe spacer | Soft gel or foam piece that separates toes that rub | In shoes, during the day | PediFix Visco-GEL Stay-Put Toe Spacers; PediFix Toe Separator |
| Hammer toe crutch or cushion | Gel pad under the toe tips to lift and cushion bent-under toes | In shoes, during the day | PediFix Visco-GEL Hammer Toe Crutch; PediFix Hammer Toe Cushion |
| Toe straightener | Loop and pad that encourages crooked or overlapping toes toward alignment | In shoes, during the day | PediFix Triple Toe Straightener |
Bunion pads and shields
The Bunion Shield Universal is made of soft felt and foam rubber with an elastic loop that keeps it in place, and it fits either foot. The Visco-GEL Dual-Action Bunion Fix combines a gel bunion guard with a toe spacer that separates the first and second toes. Both go inside your normal shoes, so check that your shoes have enough room in the toe box. See all bunion care products.
Bunion regulators
A bunion regulator is a splint worn while resting or sleeping that holds the big toe in position. The PediFix Bunion Regulator is sold for the left or right foot, so order one for each foot that needs it. PediFix lists the medium size as fitting men's 7 to 10 and women's 8 and up. Regulators are also used after bunion surgery, but only when your surgeon says so.
Toe spacers and straighteners
Spacers separate toes that rub together. The PediFix Visco-GEL Stay-Put Toe Spacers have a loop that slips over the first or second toe to keep the spacer in place, and they come in medium and large. The PediFix Toe Separator is a foam option sold 12 to a box. For crooked or overlapping toes, the PediFix Triple Toe Straightener has an adjustable loop and a cushioned pad under the ball of the foot.
Hammer toe crutches and cushions
Hammer toes bend at the middle joint, so the tip of the toe presses down. A hammer toe crutch or cushion sits under the toes to lift and pad them. The PediFix Visco-GEL Hammer Toe Crutch comes in a pack of 2, and the PediFix Hammer Toe Cushion is sold for the left or right foot. Shop all toe cushions, spacers and straighteners.
Tips for wearing toe products
- Shoes first: pads and spacers need room. A wider, deeper toe box makes them more comfortable.
- Start slowly: wear a new product for a few hours at first and check your skin.
- Keep them clean: many Visco-GEL products are washable and reusable; follow the package directions.
- Check left or right: regulators, hammer toe cushions and straighteners are often foot-specific.
- Diabetes or poor circulation: ask your doctor or podiatrist before using any toe product, and check your feet daily. Our diabetes foot care shopping guide has more.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a bunion regulator in shoes?
Regulators like the PediFix Bunion Regulator are made for resting or sleeping. For daytime, use a shield or spacer that fits inside your shoe.
What is the difference between a toe spacer and a toe straightener?
A spacer sits between two toes to stop them rubbing. A straightener uses a loop and pad to encourage crooked or overlapping toes toward a straighter position.
Are these products FSA or HSA eligible?
Many foot care products are commonly FSA/HSA eligible. Check with your plan administrator for your specific plan.
For heel pain, see our plantar fasciitis night splint guide and heel cups and cushions.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, nurse or therapist about what is right for you.