OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Glenside
We employ five specialised conservative methods at Adelaide Bunion Clinic to address bunions:
Foot Mobilisation Therapy
Foot Mobilisation Therapy uses gentle manipulation techniques to restore mobility and improve overall foot function.
Foot mobilisation therapy for bunion treatment helps ease pain and supports joint realignment by restoring movement in the big toe. This hands-on approach stimulates connective tissue and collagen, which research has shown to be most effective over 12 weeks. With 26 bones in each foot moving independently, daily activities can lead to stiffness and restriction, especially in the big toe joint—one of the most important for balance and movement.
Foot Mobilisation Therapy is highly effective at ‘unlocking’ stiff joints, particularly the big toe. While it can relieve pain, it can also help gradually realign the big toe when combined with targeted exercises. With over a decade of experience using this technique, we’ve found it most beneficial for treating bunions and arthritis. Though useful for various foot and leg conditions, it is often used alongside other treatments for musculoskeletal injuries.
Intrinsic Foot Exercises
The goal of Intrinsic Foot Exercises is to enhance foot strength and resilience. Regular practice can contribute to realigning the big toe. The foot is made up of many small muscles, and we offer specific exercises to help strengthen them. When paired with Foot Mobilisation Therapy, these exercises may assist in straightening the big toe. Additionally, they are crucial in post-bunion surgery rehabilitation. Review the foundational exercises below.
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.
Once the “twitch” occurs, the muscle loosens, promoting relaxation and easing discomfort.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling?
Reduces muscle stiffness and improves mobility
Helps relieve joint stiffness
Boosts blood flow and oxygen supply to the foot
Boosts range of motion and joint flexibility
High Powered Class - 4 Cold Laser Therapy
Our treatment includes the highly advanced Class 4 K-Laser, an industry-leading European technology. It is specifically designed to relieve pain, combat inflammation, and reduce medication dependency. Additionally, the laser aids in tissue healing, speeds up recovery, and enhances joint movement, providing a soothing warmth during treatment.
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
By elevating the arch pitch, the orthotic helps create space in the big toe joint, addressing bunion-related issues. It also stabilises the foot and leg, preventing excessive inward rolling, which reduces strain on the big toe and minimises its deviation.
The orthotic helps correct two underlying factors that contribute to bunions:
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?
When managing bunion discomfort and symptoms, several over-the-counter (OTC) treatment options exist. While they can provide temporary relief and may complement a podiatrist-designed treatment plan, they do not serve as a complete solution.
Bunion Correctors
These orthotic devices aim to support big toe alignment and ease bunion pain. However, while they may offer some relief, bunion correctors are not a lasting solution and do not fully correct the condition.
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
Bunion pads and sleeves create a soft barrier over the bunion, helping to reduce irritation and pressure from footwear. While they provide short-term relief, they do not address the underlying cause of the condition.
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen are effective for managing inflammation and discomfort caused by bunions. While they can ease symptoms, they do not address the underlying issue or stop the bunion from worsening.
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!
