Items filtered by date: February 2020

Toenail fungus is an infection of the toenails, and can be difficult to cure. Research has indicated that this condition may affect ten percent of the western population, and may become more prevalent after the age of sixty. There are noticeable symptoms that often accompany toenail fungus. These can include the nails appearing yellow and thick, and in severe cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed. The type of fungus that causes this infection often lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These environments often consist of public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is known to be contagious, and it is helpful to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of environments. Patients who have psoriasis or are diabetic may have an increased risk of developing toenail fungus. If you are afflicted with this ailment, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

The ankle has the ability to move the foot in two directions that consist of moving away from the body, and toward the body. The bony portions on the side of the ankle are referred to as the malleoli, and these provide stability while walking and standing. If an injury occurs to the ankle, it may be difficult to walk, in addition to generally causing severe pain and discomfort. Ankle sprains are known to be the most common type of ankle injury. This can happen when suddenly stepping off of a curb, or if it is twisted in a sporting activity. Common symptoms that are associated with this type of injury can include immediate swelling surrounding the affected area, bruising, and it may feel warm. After a proper diagnosis is performed which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options for you.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Doctors who specialize in treating foot disorders are known as podiatrists. This type of doctor is known as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, and goes by the initials DPM after their name. There are typically eight years of schooling that must be completed. After a bachelor's degree is achieved, the interested student may continue further in a graduate program for four years. This period of time is broken in two phases. The first begins with classroom and laboratory studies, followed by patient care for the next two years. There are several places podiatrists can practice in. These can include hospitals, private practices, or public health services. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, please speak to a podiatrist who can guide you in determining if this is the right choice for you.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.

Patients who have an Achilles tendon injury typically feel pain in the calf. The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles, and may become damaged or torn while participating in certain sporting activities. It enables the foot to point and flex, which is necessary in order to walk, run, and jump. The Achilles tendon may tear or become ruptured as a result of repetitive stress on the feet and ankles. It can happen gradually from consistent running, or happen suddenly from an increase in exercise intensity. Some of the symptoms that are typically associated with this condition can include swelling surrounding the heel, severe pain in the back of the leg, and difficulty walking. If you feel you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

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.