OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Thebarton
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.
Unlocking stiff joints, particularly in the big toe, is where Foot Mobilisation Therapy shines. While it provides pain relief, when paired with exercises, it can also contribute to realigning the big toe over time. Our 10+ years of experience show that it works best for bunions and arthritis, though it is often used to support recovery from various musculoskeletal issues.
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?
Recognised as the gold standard for muscle release, dry needling is used to alleviate pain. This method involves inserting a small acupuncture needle (around 0.3mm thick) into trigger points in the foot’s muscles, helping to relieve tension and discomfort.
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?
Aids in relaxing tight muscles
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.
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
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.
By addressing two major causes of bunions, the orthotic provides effective support:
1. The flattening out of the foot which jams up the big toe
2. The internal rotation of the foot and leg
Do over-the-counter bunion treatments actually work?
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 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
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.
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!
