Thursday, 14 March 2024 00:00

Orthotics, also called orthotic insoles or shoe inserts, are customized flexible supports designed to correct specific foot imbalances causing pain or other issues. Orthotics can be worn by children as young as age two, but should only be prescribed by a podiatrist. Signs that a child may need orthotics can include in-toeing or out-toeing, or foot, ankle, knee, or leg pain. Other signs include tripping or falling frequently, abnormal gait, knock-knees, or significant lower body misalignment. If you are concerned about your child’s feet and think they might benefit from orthotics, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This type of doctor can offer a proper assessment and monitoring to discuss if orthotics would be effective in addressing your child's foot issues.

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts are not just for cushioning the soles; they are about supporting the foundation of our body - our feet. The advantages extend far beyond immediate relief from discomfort. These personalized solutions, that Our doctors can prescribe, can significantly impact a person’s posture, alleviate pain in various parts of the body, and even enhance athletic performance.

As we lace up our shoes each day, having the right support can make a world of difference. Custom orthotics are like tailored suites for our feet, offering a bespoke solution to address our unique biomechanical needs. They provide stability where it is lacking, correct imbalances, and ensure that every step is a confident and pain-free one. 

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts offer long-term health benefits. By addressing issues such as overpronation or underpronation, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, etc. orthotics can help prevent injuries and mitigate the progression of existing conditions. It’s an investment not just in the present, but in the future health of your feet and consequently, your overall well-being. 

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.

Read more about Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health
Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

A Plantar fibroma is a benign growth that develops on the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This condition typically presents as a firm nodule or lump in the arch or ball of the foot, causing discomfort and pain with weight-bearing activities. The exact cause of plantar fibromas remains uncertain, but factors such as trauma, inflammation, or genetic predisposition may contribute to their development. Plantar fibromas can vary in size and may gradually increase in size over time, potentially interfering with normal foot function and mobility. While plantar fibromas are non-cancerous and generally harmless, they can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities if left untreated. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the fibroma and restore foot function. If you have noticed a lump or nodule on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma or whatever else might be going on.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. 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.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

  • Steroid injections
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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.

Read more about Plantar Fibroma
Sunday, 10 March 2024 00:00

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.

Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

A broken foot, medically referred to as a foot fracture, occurs when one or more bones in the foot are cracked or fractured. The foot comprises multiple bones, including the metatarsals, phalanges, and tarsals, making it susceptible to fractures from trauma, overuse, or stress injuries. Common symptoms of a broken foot can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. In severe cases, the broken bone may protrude through the skin, indicating an open fracture requiring immediate medical attention. Depending on the location and severity of the fracture, symptoms may vary, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and deformity. It is essential to seek medical evaluation if you suspect a broken foot, as untreated fractures can lead to complications such as chronic pain, arthritis, and impaired mobility. If you have endured a broken foot, it is suggested that you seek medical attention from a podiatrist who can determine the severity, and offer the treatment method that is right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
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