Items filtered by date: February 2024

Selecting the right footwear for work is not merely a matter of style but also a critical aspect of occupational health and safety. Wearing properly fitted shoes can significantly impact overall comfort, productivity, and well-being throughout the workday. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to a myriad of problems, including blisters, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. Additionally, shoes that are too tight or narrow may cause foot pain, discomfort, and even contribute to the development of long-term foot conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. Conversely, shoes that are too loose can result in instability, increased risk of falls, and potential injury. Properly fitted shoes provide adequate support, cushioning, and alignment for the feet, helping to alleviate strain and pressure on the muscles and joints. Whether standing for extended periods or engaging in physical activities, wearing shoes that fit properly is essential for maintaining optimal foot health and minimizing the risk of workplace-related injuries. If you would like more information about choosing shoes that fit correctly for your work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.

Extensor tendonitis, characterized by inflammation of the tendons in the feet, often arises from overuse or repetitive strain. These tendons, situated just beneath the skin, lack substantial protection which makes them susceptible to injury. In the feet, extensor tendonitis commonly stems from prolonged standing or wearing improperly fitting shoes. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and stiffness, often accompanied by difficulty with movement. Diagnosis by a podiatrist generally involves a physical examination and may require imaging tests to assess the extent of the damage. While surgery is rarely necessary, it may be considered for severe or persistent cases. Overall, early intervention and proper management can help alleviate symptoms of extensor tendonitis and promote full recovery, enabling you to resume your daily activities without discomfort. If you are experiencing symptoms of extensor tendonitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically the area between the third and fourth toes. This condition involves the thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve leading to the toes, usually caused by irritation or compression. The hallmark symptom of Morton's neuroma is a sharp, burning pain or the sensation of a small, pebble-like object under the ball of the foot. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or a feeling of swelling in the toes. The pain tends to worsen with activities like walking or wearing tight shoes, as these activities compress the affected nerve. Morton's neuroma is often more prevalent in women and individuals who frequently wear high heels or engage in activities that put repetitive pressure on the forefoot. Morton’s neuroma is treated by a podiatrist. If you are experiencing symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Custom foot orthoses have a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century when Lewis Durlacher created molded leather devices to address foot issues for Queen Victoria. Over the years, several myths have emerged about the function and effects of custom orthoses. First, custom orthotics are personalized medical devices designed to optimize foot and lower extremity function by modifying ground reaction forces' timing, location, and magnitude. They do not force the foot into specific joint positions but work with their unique morphology, stiffness, and cushioning properties to achieve therapeutic goals. Custom foot orthoses serve various purposes, from relieving diabetic neuropathic ulcers to reducing tension stress in conditions like plantar fasciitis. They also redirect ground reaction forces to prevent bending moments responsible for stress fractures and other issues. That there is one best way to design custom orthoses is another myth. The flexibility of custom orthoses allows for tailored solutions for different pathologies. Lastly, the notion that custom foot orthoses weaken feet over time lacks scientific backing. In fact, research suggests that they can enhance foot muscle activation. If you would like to understand more about how custom orthotics might help you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

The benefits of custom orthotics are far-reaching and can make a significant impact on your daily life. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance, a healthcare worker on your feet every day, someone who experiences chronic foot pain, or someone who wants to improve their overall comfort and well-being, custom orthotics can be a game changer. 

Custom orthotics provide support, stability, and relief for a variety of foot conditions ranging from flat feet to heel pain. They can even help prevent injuries and address more severe foot concerns, such as plantar fasciitis and diabetic foot issues. 

Contact one of our podiatrists at Bruening Foot & Ankle to create tailored orthotics for you and enjoy a higher quality of life, reduced pain, and increased mobility. With the right orthotics, you can continue doing the things you love, whether it’s running, dancing, or simply walking comfortably without discomfort. 

If you are suffering from foot discomfort or have concerns about your foot health, do not hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at Bruening Foot & Ankle to explore the benefits of orthotics for you. Your feet are the foundation of your body and investing in their well-being can lead to a happier, healthier, and more active lifestyle. Your feet will thank you!

If you have any questions please 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.

Gout, a type of arthritis, can cause intense pain that often starts in the big toe. This condition is caused by a build up of needle shaped uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation. The big toe is where painful gout attacks commonly occur because it is a cooler part of the body, and uric acid is more likely to crystallize there. Gout patients usually experience painful joint flares for a week or so, which then disappear for a period of time. Some patients do not experience their next flare for a year or more. Lifestyle factors such as a diet particularly rich in purine-containing foods in addition to genetics can contribute to gout development. During a gout flare up, the big toe may become red, swollen, and extremely tender. It is essential for those experiencing big toe pain to seek medical attention, as managing gout requires having a well informed plan. If you have pain in your big toe and suspect it may be gout, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you find relief from the acute pain associated with this condition.

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.