Items filtered by date: August 2024

Treating a diabetic foot wound requires careful medical attention to prevent complications and promote healing. A podiatrist starts by cleaning the wound gently with mild soap and water to remove any debris. An antibiotic ointment can then be applied to prevent infection and covered with a sterile bandage. It is important to regularly inspect the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness or swelling. Managing blood sugar levels is essential, as high glucose can hinder the healing process. Additionally, protect the wound from pressure and friction by using appropriate footwear. Elevating the foot and keeping it dry can also aid in healing. If the wound shows signs of infection or does not improve, seek medical attention promptly from a podiatrist. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can treat the wound, and help you to manage this condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Ankle pain while walking can stem from various causes. Common culprits can include sprains, arthritis, tendonitis, and fractures, all of which can result in inflammation, swelling, and discomfort. Overuse, wearing improper footwear, and previous injuries can also contribute. Ankle pain impacts mobility and quality of life, making walking difficult. To avoid ankle pain, wear supportive shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and perform exercises to strengthen ankle muscles. Rest, compression, and elevation can help manage pain. However, if you have persistent or severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist ensure ongoing foot and ankle health, allowing walking to remain a simple and effective means of transportation without discomfort.

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 tendonitis
• 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.

In ballet, the coordination of foot bones is essential for achieving fluid and graceful movements. During a tendu, the foot extends and stretches, with the bones and tendons working together to create a smooth, elongated line. A plié involves bending the knees while keeping the feet firmly grounded, requiring precise articulation of the ankle and foot bones to maintain balance and control. Port-de-bras, the movement of the arms in coordination with the feet, enhances overall fluidity and expression. Effective foot and ankle articulation involves strengthening the muscles and tendons surrounding these areas to ensure flexibility and stability. Proper technique and consistent practice help ballet dancers achieve aesthetic, elegant movements and avoid injury through careful, controlled use of the foot bones and surrounding structures. If you are a ballet dancer, and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment and guide you on how to perform specific stretches for optimal results.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

Custom foot orthotics play a vital role in the rehabilitation of foot and ankle conditions. These specially designed devices provide targeted support and correction, promoting proper alignment and biomechanics. For conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains, custom orthotics help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing strain on injured tissues and facilitating healing. By stabilizing the foot and ankle, custom orthotics aid in preventing further injury and ensuring a more efficient rehabilitation process. They help correct abnormal gait patterns that often accompany injuries, reducing compensatory movements that can lead to additional problems in the knees, hips, and lower back. Orthotics can also enhance comfort and mobility during the recovery period, allowing individuals to gradually return to their normal activities without making their condition worse. If you are recovering from a foot or ankle problem, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure orthotics are precisely fitted to address the specific needs of the problem, supporting a successful and speedy recovery.

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.

Experiencing pain in the arch of the foot can significantly affect your daily activities, making it difficult to walk or bear weight. This discomfort can stem from various conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overpronation. Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common reasons, involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Flat feet or fallen arches occur when the arch collapses, causing strain and pain due to improper weight distribution. Overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively while walking, can also lead to arch pain by overstretching and stressing the ligaments and muscles. Other factors like obesity, wearing improper footwear, and repetitive stress from high-impact activities can contribute to this issue. A podiatrist can examine your arches to determine the case of the discomfort. This medically trained foot doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating foot-related problems, offering personalized treatment plans that may include orthotic devices or specific exercises to alleviate pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of the foot, 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.