OUR TREATMENTS
Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments Unley
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 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 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.
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?
Aids in relaxing tight muscles
Alleviates joint aches
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.
This Class 4 Laser utilises four wavelengths, each playing a unique role in treatment. Here’s a breakdown of their functions and how they contribute to healing:
- 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
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.
The orthotic helps correct two underlying factors that contribute to bunions:
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?
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
Designed to help realign the big toe, bunion correctors can offer some relief from discomfort. However, they are not considered a long-term fix and are unlikely to fully correct the bunion.
Toe Separators
Made from soft materials like silicone, toe separators are designed to fit between the toes and promote better alignment. While they can ease friction and discomfort caused by bunions, they do not correct the root issue. They can, however, be incorporated into a larger treatment strategy.
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)
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.
OTC bunion treatments can provide temporary symptom relief, but true bunion correction requires a more comprehensive approach. Consulting a qualified podiatrist ensures a proper assessment and a personalised treatment plan, which may include OTC options as supportive measures.
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!
