OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Parkside
We employ five specialised conservative methods at Adelaide Bunion Clinic to address bunions:
Foot Mobilisation Therapy
A gentle, hands-on approach, Foot Mobilisation Therapy promotes better movement and function in the big toe and feet.
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 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
Intrinsic Foot Exercises are designed to improve foot stability and resilience. When done diligently, they can play a role in big toe realignment. Since the foot contains numerous small muscles, we provide exercises to strengthen them. These exercises, in combination with Foot Mobilisation Therapy, may encourage the big toe to straighten. They are also essential in recovering from bunion surgery. Below are some of the core exercises we recommend.
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.
A dry needle is inserted into the muscle belly’s trigger points, which may have formed due to injury or ongoing muscle strain. This technique stimulates the muscle to contract momentarily, creating a response known as a “twitch.”
The “twitch” response triggers muscle relaxation, which in turn alleviates tension and minimises pain.
What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling?
Promotes flexibility by easing muscle tightness
Helps relieve joint stiffness
Promotes better blood flow and oxygen distribution in 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.
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
Orthotics increase the arch pitch, allowing the big toe joint to open up and relieving pressure on the bunion. They also prevent excessive foot and leg pronation, which otherwise forces the big toe inward, causing further 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
Can over-the-counter bunion treatments provide relief?
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
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
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
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)
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.
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!
