Bunions are a common foot problem that causes a bump to form at the base of the big toe. They happen when the bones in the front of your foot shift out of place, making the big toe lean toward the second toe. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Many people get bunions because of the shape of their feet, which they inherit from their family. Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can make bunions worse. Other causes include flat feet, arthritis, and foot injuries. Bunions can get worse over time, if not treated. Early treatment, like wearing wider shoes or using custom orthotics, can help relieve discomfort and slow the bunion’s progression. If you notice a bump forming or feel pain in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.

Wearing properly fitted shoes is essential for foot health and overall comfort. To determine the correct shoe size, start by measuring both feet in the evening when they are likely to be at their largest. Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor and stand with full weight evenly distributed. Trace the outline of each foot and measure the length from the heel to the longest toe. Measuring the width at the widest part of the foot provides additional accuracy. Compare these measurements with a reliable sizing chart, keeping in mind that sizes may vary between brands. Ensuring a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the shoe’s edge prevents crowding. Selecting shoes that match both length and width measurements helps maintain comfort and reduce foot-related issues. Foot pain can develop from wearing the wrong size shoes. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, in addition to providing help in determining your correct shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without 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.

Foot orthotics are beneficial for athletes and others engaging in physical activities by providing support, improving comfort, and enhancing performance. Whether running, playing sports, or participating in fitness routines, orthotics help correct foot alignment, reducing the risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, or stress fractures. They help in distributing pressure evenly across the foot, which improves stability and balance during high-impact activities. By offering proper arch support and cushioning, orthotics also reduce fatigue and discomfort, allowing athletes to perform at their best for longer periods. Additionally, orthotics can help prevent common foot issues like plantar fasciitis or shin splints, which can sideline active individuals. With the right orthotics, athletes can enjoy increased mobility and better performance. If you are involved in sports or other physical activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine which orthotics are best for you. 

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . 

Basketball puts intense stress on the ankles due to frequent jumping, cutting, and sudden direction changes. Sprains are the most common injury, occurring when the ligaments overstretch or tear from awkward landings or collisions. High ankle sprains and fractures can also result from forceful twists or falls. Weak ankles, wearing improper footwear, and lack of conditioning increase the risk of injury. Strengthening exercises, balance training, and wearing supportive basketball shoes with proper ankle stability help prevent issues. Taping or bracing provides additional protection for players with a history of injuries. Immediate treatment includes rest, compression, and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Ignoring an ankle injury can lead to chronic instability and long-term problems. If you have an ankle injury from playing basketball, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and customized treatment to promote healing and prevent re-injury.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.