Items filtered by date: July 2019

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Monday, 29 July 2019 00:00

Have I Broken My Toe?

A broken toe may result from dropping a heavy object on it, or if it is severely stubbed. There are noticeable symptoms that accompany a broken toe, including immediate pain and swelling around the affected area, and patients may notice their toe is bruised. Putting on shoes and performing daily activities may be difficult to accomplish, in addition to walking without pain and discomfort. Treatment options can include taping the injured toe to the one next to it, which is referred to as buddy taping. This is helpful in providing stability to the broken toe as the healing process occurs. Gentle toe stretching can be performed as a part of therapy after the splint is removed. This is beneficial in regaining a full range of motion. If you feel you have broken your toe, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment techniques.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 22 July 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Gout

The symptoms that many patients experience with the medical condition that is known as gout often include severe pain and discomfort, in addition to swelling on and around the big toe. The pain can be so disabling it can limit the ability to walk and to perform daily activities. This condition is caused by an excess of uric acid that is in the bloodstream, and can develop from eating foods that have large amounts of purines. These can include shellfish, red meat, alcohol, and drinks that are high in fructose. If certain medications are taken which can consist of water pills and low dose aspirin, it may lead to the development of gout. There are measures that can be implemented which may help to avoid gout attacks. These include eating limited amounts of red meat, and reducing alcohol intake. If you have developed gout, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform an accurate diagnosis and begin the correct treatment. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 15 July 2019 00:00

Heel Spur Facts

A heel spur is a bony protruding outgrowth on the bone of the heel. They can be located either at the back of the heel or under it. Heel spurs located at the back of the heel are most often associated with inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which can cause tenderness and heel pain. Heel spurs will be diagnosed based on if you have a history of heel pain and if there is tenderness at the bottom of the heel. An X-Ray is typically required to confirm this. Some treatments for heel spurs include applying ice to the spot of the spur, orthotic devices or shoe inserts, anti-inflammatory medications such as Aleve and Advil, cortisone injections and sometimes surgery. Generally, heel spurs don’t lead to any long term conditions, as they usually respond well to the treatments mentioned previously. If you feel you may have developed a heel spur, it is advised that you go see a podiatrist.

 

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Monday, 08 July 2019 00:00

Children's Feet

For many kids, there isn’t a worry in the world. To this end, children tend to neglect the impact their feet can take on a daily basis. Not being aware of any foot ailments as a child can lead to potential effects on the foot in adulthood. An untreated foot injury in childhood can also lead to undesirable personality effects. The growing child can become shy, introverted and avoid athletics and social events as a result. Some suggestions to help ensure that children's feet proceed towards normal development include making sure the child takes part in physical activities that exercise the feet, regularly taking the child to see a podiatrist to make sure the foot is developing properly and also to be aware of the child’s walking pattern to see if there are any potential foot problems. It is important to take your child to see a podiatrist if they show signs of having a foot ailment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 01 July 2019 00:00

Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury

The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the calf, and its function is to connect the heel to the calf muscles. It is important for this tendon to remain strong, as it is necessary in performing running and jumping activities. Achilles tendonitis occurs if it becomes irritated, inflamed, or swollen. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including increasing the intensity of a new sport, wearing inappropriate shoes while exercising, or from having tight calf muscles. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include pain and discomfort near the heel, and some patients may have difficulty in flexing and pointing the injured foot. Effective treatment options can include resting the foot, performing exercises to strengthen the calf muscles, in addition to possibly wearing orthotics. If you feel you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly advised to consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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