OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Glenunga
Adelaide Bunion Clinic offers five non-surgical techniques to effectively treat bunions:
Foot Mobilisation Therapy
Foot Mobilisation Therapy uses gentle manipulation techniques to restore mobility and improve overall foot function.
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.
We see Foot Mobilisation Therapy as an excellent way to restore movement in stiff joints, especially the big toe. Not only does it help with pain relief, but when combined with exercises, it can aid in gradually straightening the big toe. With over 10 years of experience in foot mobilisation, we find it particularly effective for bunions and arthritis, though it also supports recovery from other musculoskeletal conditions.
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?
Dry needling primarily aims to relieve pain. It is now recognised as the gold standard for releasing tight muscles. This technique involves inserting a fine acupuncture needle (around 0.3mm thick) into a trigger point within the small muscles of the foot.
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.
After the “twitch” response, the muscle releases tension, leading to relaxation and a reduction in pain.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling?
Supports the release of muscle stiffness
Helps relieve joint stiffness
Promotes better blood flow and oxygen distribution in the foot
Promotes improved flexibility and joint mobility
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.
Being a Class 4 Laser, it harnesses the power of four wavelengths. Below is an explanation of how each wavelength works and its benefits:
- 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
Orthotics may be prescribed to:
- Reduce Pain
- Retard the Progression of the Bunion
- Prevent Bunion Surgery
The orthotic works by increasing the arch pitch, helping to open up the big toe joint where the bunion is located. Additionally, it prevents the leg and foot from rolling inward, reducing the pressure on the inside of the big toe that contributes to its deviation.
The orthotic targets two primary causes of 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?
OTC bunion treatments can help ease symptoms temporarily and may be included in a podiatrist-guided treatment approach. However, they are not an effective solution for fully addressing bunions.
Bunion Correctors
Bunion correctors are orthotic devices designed to realign the big toe and relieve bunion-related discomfort. While they may provide short-term relief, they are not typically a permanent solution and are unlikely to fully correct a bunion.
Toe Separators
Toe separators are small inserts, often made of silicone, that help space the toes and reduce bunion-related friction. While they may provide short-term relief, they do not address the underlying causes of bunions but can be used alongside other treatment options.
Bunion Pads/Sleeves
Bunion pads or sleeves act as cushioned barriers that cover the bunion, reducing friction and pressure from footwear. They offer a quick and convenient way to ease discomfort, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet.
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!
