OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Myrtle Bank
We employ five specialised conservative methods at Adelaide Bunion Clinic to address bunions:
Foot Mobilisation Therapy
This hands-on therapy helps improve movement and function in the big toe and feet by gently mobilising the joints.
Foot mobilisation plays a key role in bunion treatment by reducing pain and helping to realign the joints. This gentle, hands-on therapy restores natural movement in the big toe joint by stimulating connective tissue and collagen, which research suggests responds best over a 12-week cycle. With 26 bones in each foot working independently, everyday activities like walking, running, and standing can cause joints to stiffen over time. The big toe joint, being one of the most crucial joints in the foot, is particularly affected.
Foot Mobilisation Therapy is one of the most effective techniques for improving movement in locked joints, especially in the big toe. Beyond pain relief, it can support gradual toe realignment when paired with exercises. With over a decade of experience, we find it particularly useful for treating bunions and arthritis, though it also serves as a complementary therapy for other musculoskeletal concerns.
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.
The “twitch” response triggers muscle relaxation, which in turn alleviates tension and minimises pain.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling?
Supports the release of muscle stiffness
Alleviates joint aches
Enhances oxygen delivery and blood circulation in the foot
Supports better movement 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.
With four wavelengths, this Class 4 Laser delivers targeted therapy. Here’s the science behind each wavelength and how it enhances treatment outcomes:
- 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
We may recommend orthotics to:
- 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.
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.
Temporary relief from bunion symptoms can be achieved with OTC treatments, but true correction is best handled by a podiatrist. A professional assessment ensures a targeted treatment plan, which may use OTC methods alongside other interventions.
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!
