A broken ankle occurs when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint fracture. This injury can result from a fall, sports-related accident, twisting injury, or motor vehicle collision. The severity of a broken ankle can vary, ranging from a small crack in the bone to multiple fractures that affect the stability of the joint. Symptoms include severe ankle pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. In some cases, the ankle may appear misshapen or unstable. Because many ankle injuries share similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is necessary to determine whether a fracture is present.

A broken ankle can significantly affect mobility and daily activities. Walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods may become difficult or impossible. If the fracture is not properly diagnosed and treated, it can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic ankle pain, joint instability, or post-traumatic arthritis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, are often needed to identify the location and severity of the fracture. Prompt diagnosis is important because treatment plans vary depending on the type of fracture and whether the bones remain in proper alignment.

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who can diagnose and manage broken ankles and other ankle injuries. During an evaluation, a podiatrist will assess symptoms, examine the ankle joint, and review imaging results to determine the most appropriate course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the fracture, treatment may involve immobilization, bracing, fracture management, or surgical care. Ongoing monitoring is often important to ensure proper healing and restore ankle function. Early podiatric care can help reduce the risk of complications and support a safe return to normal activities. If you have severe ankle pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, or other symptoms that may indicate a broken ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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 Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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 health plays an important role in overall mobility, safety, and independence as people age. Changes in the feet can affect balance, walking stability, and the risk of falls, making foot evaluation an important part of care for older adults. Problems such as thickened nails, poorly maintained skin, pressure areas, or untreated pain may signal more than a foot issue alone. These findings can sometimes suggest reduced mobility, declining strength, difficulty with self-care, or increasing frailty. In some cases, they may also reflect that a caregiver is struggling to keep up with daily care needs. A focused foot examination can help identify concerns early and guide treatment before more serious complications develop. Addressing foot problems may improve comfort, function, and safety. If you are an older adult, or caring for one, and foot discomfort, balance changes, or difficulty with walking persist, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Bruening Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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.

Toenail fungus is a common condition that affects the nail and surrounding skin when fungal organisms begin to grow in warm, moist environments. It often starts as a small discoloration under the nail and gradually spreads, causing the nail to become thickened, brittle, and discolored. Some people may notice a yellow or white color, along with a foul odor, in more advanced cases. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public areas, and having reduced circulation or immune response. The condition may develop slowly and can become difficult to manage if left untreated. Over time, it may lead to discomfort and changes in how the nail grows. A podiatrist can evaluate the infection, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend targeted treatments to restore nail health. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Foot orthoses are shoe inserts that help support the feet, improve alignment, and reduce strain during movement. They are often used when the feet are not working in a balanced way. Causes include flat feet, high arches, repeated stress from standing or walking, or poor foot alignment. These issues can lead to heel pain, arch soreness, foot fatigue, ankle discomfort, or aching in the knees and lower legs. Orthotic treatment can help by improving how pressure is spread across the foot and supporting smoother movement with each step. Different types of foot orthoses are used depending on need. Some are soft and cushion painful areas, while others are firmer and help guide foot motion and improve stability. The type used depends on how much support and control is needed for daily activity. If foot pain is limiting your activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see which type of orthotics are right for you. 

Custom orthotics can make a remarkable difference in daily comfort and mobility by supporting the feet in their most natural and balanced position. Because the feet form the foundation for the entire body, any imbalance can affect not only how a person walks, but also how the knees, hips, and spine align. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, pain, or reduced movement. Custom orthotics are designed to restore stability and promote proper alignment, which can transform the way a person feels and functions throughout the day.

People who wear custom orthotics often experience improved posture, less joint strain, and greater endurance during work, exercise, and leisure activities. The support they provide helps relieve chronic discomfort from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel pain, while also reducing the risk of future injuries. For those who stand for long hours or engage in sports, orthotics can make movement smoother and more efficient, allowing the body to perform at its best without unnecessary stress.

Each pair of custom orthotics is created after a detailed evaluation of foot structure, gait, and pressure distribution. By addressing each person’s unique needs, they offer comfort and confidence with every step.

If you are experiencing ongoing foot discomfort or fatigue, it is suggested that you contact our office for more information or to make an appointment.

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