OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Frewville
Adelaide Bunion Clinic offers five non-surgical techniques to effectively treat bunions:
Foot Mobilisation Therapy
This hands-on therapy helps improve movement and function in the big toe and feet by gently mobilising the joints.
Bunion treatment with foot mobilisation focuses on reducing discomfort and improving joint alignment. By using gentle, hands-on techniques, this method encourages natural movement in the big toe joint, stimulating collagen and connective tissue for long-term benefits. Research supports a 12-week cycle for optimal results. The foot’s 26 bones are designed to move independently, but over time, impact from walking, running, and standing can cause them to stiffen, particularly in the crucial big toe joint.
Unlocking stiff joints, particularly in the big toe, is where Foot Mobilisation Therapy shines. While it provides pain relief, when paired with exercises, it can also contribute to realigning the big toe over time. Our 10+ years of experience show that it works best for bunions and arthritis, though it is often used to support recovery from various musculoskeletal issues.
Intrinsic Foot Exercises
The purpose of Intrinsic Foot Exercises is to strengthen the foot’s natural structure and improve resilience. With consistent effort, they may assist in realigning the big toe. The foot is home to many small muscles, and we prescribe exercises to build their strength. When used alongside Foot Mobilisation Therapy, they may help straighten the big toe. They are also a fundamental part of rehabilitation after bunion surgery. Here are some basic exercises to begin with.
Dry Needling?
What is Dry Needling?
The purpose of dry needling is pain reduction. As a widely accepted method for easing muscle tension, it uses a thin acupuncture needle (approximately 0.3mm thick) to target trigger points in the small muscles of the foot, promoting muscle relaxation.
When a dry needle is inserted into a trigger point in the muscle belly, it helps address tension caused by injury or repetitive strain. This process momentarily contracts the muscle, producing what is known as a “twitch” response.
Following the “twitch,” the muscle relaxes, helping to relieve tightness and reduce pain.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling?
Aids in relaxing tight muscles
Supports joint mobility and pain relief
Boosts blood flow and oxygen supply to the foot
Enhances joint mobility and flexibility
High Powered Class - 4 Cold Laser Therapy
We offer treatment with the Class 4 K-Laser, a state-of-the-art European laser known for its pain-relieving capabilities. It helps reduce inflammation, supports tissue healing, and may lower reliance on medication. The laser also promotes faster recovery and better joint mobility, delivering a gentle, warming sensation during use.
This Class 4 Laser utilises four wavelengths, each playing a unique role in treatment. Here’s a breakdown of their functions and how they contribute to healing:
- 800nm => ATP
The primary process that we want to increase is the production of ATP in the mitochondria to accelerate cell healing. Therefore we use 800nm which targets Cytochrome c oxydase and enhances the use of oxygen to generate ATP.
- 905nm => Oxygenation
As we are using the oxygen in an accelerated way due to the action of 800nm we need to bring more oxygen to feed the process. Therefore we use 905nm which targets hemoglobin and forces oxygen release.
- 970nm => Vasodilation
The oxygen is being extracted due to the action of 905nm but if we want to maintain the efficiency of the process we need to bring new blood. Therefore we use 970nm as a vasodilator as it will create a temperature gradient into the tissue by targeting water specifically.
- 660nm => Skin/Wound healing
660nm is the visible red light, it does not penetrate tissue very deeply but is very efficient at healing wounds and healing skin conditions.
Custom Designed and Manufactured Orthotics
Orthotic use may be advised for:
- Reduce Pain
- Retard the Progression of the Bunion
- Prevent Bunion Surgery
With an increased arch pitch, the orthotic opens the big toe joint, alleviating pressure from bunions. It also stabilises foot movement, preventing excessive inward rolling that contributes to big toe misalignment.
Two key contributors to bunions are addressed by the orthotic:
1. The flattening out of the foot which jams up the big toe
2. The internal rotation of the foot and leg
Are store-bought bunion treatment options effective?
There are various over-the-counter (OTC) treatment options available for bunion relief. While they may help alleviate symptoms in the short term and be part of a broader podiatric plan, they are not a standalone fix.
Bunion Correctors
Bunion correctors work by attempting to realign the big toe and reduce discomfort. While they may provide temporary relief, they do not offer a permanent solution and are unlikely to completely correct bunions.
Toe Separators
These small, flexible inserts fit between the toes to encourage alignment and reduce irritation from bunions. While toe separators can help with friction and mild discomfort, they do not resolve the root cause and work best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Bunion Pads/Sleeves
Designed to minimise friction and pressure, bunion pads or sleeves provide a cushioned layer over the bunion. They can offer temporary relief, particularly when wearing shoes for extended periods.
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Non-prescription NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, can reduce bunion inflammation and pain. While useful for temporary relief, they do not prevent the condition from advancing.
While OTC bunion treatments can help manage symptoms in the short term, effective correction is a more complex issue. A qualified podiatrist can assess your condition and create a customised treatment plan, potentially incorporating some OTC methods as part of a broader strategy.
At our clinics in North Adelaide and Eastwood, we regularly treat patients from Walkerville, Unley, Prospect, St Peters, Brompton, Norwood, Thebarton, Mile End, Parkside, Glenside, Fullarton, Frewville, Myrtle Bank, Highgate, Glenunga and beyond. Book an appointment today!
