OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Norwood
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.
The purpose of foot mobilisation in bunion treatment is to relieve pain and restore proper joint alignment. This natural technique involves gentle manual movements that encourage healthy motion in the big toe joint by stimulating collagen and connective tissue. Research indicates this process is most effective over a 12-week period. Since each foot contains 26 independently moving bones, repetitive stress from daily activities can lead to joint stiffness—especially in the big toe, which plays a vital role in foot function.
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
Intrinsic Foot Exercises help build a stronger and more resilient foot foundation. When performed consistently, they can also assist in realigning the big toe. The foot contains numerous small muscles, and we provide targeted exercises to strengthen them. When combined with Foot Mobilisation Therapy, these exercises may aid in straightening the big toe. They are also a key component of post-bunion surgery rehabilitation. Below are some fundamental exercises to get started.
Dry Needling?
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is an effective technique for reducing pain and relieving muscle tightness. Using a fine acupuncture needle (about 0.3mm thick), it targets specific trigger points in the small muscles of the foot to encourage relaxation and improved function.
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?
Reduces muscle stiffness and improves mobility
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
At our clinic, we use the cutting-edge Class 4 K-Laser, one of the most powerful lasers on the market, developed in Europe. This laser is designed to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and potentially minimise the need for medication. It supports tissue repair, accelerates recovery, and enhances joint mobility while delivering a comfortable warming effect.
As a Class 4 Laser, it operates using four distinct wavelengths. Here’s the science behind each wavelength and its specific function:
- 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.
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
How effective are non-prescription bunion treatment options?
Over-the-counter (OTC) bunion treatments can offer some temporary relief from discomfort and symptoms. However, while they may be incorporated into a professional treatment plan, they are not a complete or long-term 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
Toe separators are small silicone-based inserts designed to fit between the toes and improve alignment. They can help reduce friction between a bunion and the adjacent toe, offering temporary relief. However, like other OTC treatments, they do not address the underlying cause of bunions but may be useful as part of a broader treatment plan.
Bunion Pads/Sleeves
These cushioned protectors help shield the bunion from friction and pressure, offering comfort during long periods of standing or walking. While they can help ease discomfort, they are not a long-term solution for bunions.
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.
Over-the-counter bunion treatments offer short-term relief, but addressing bunions effectively requires professional evaluation. A podiatrist can provide an in-depth assessment and develop a tailored plan, incorporating OTC options as supportive care when appropriate.
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!
