Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can cause sudden, intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. To diagnose gout, a podiatrist may recommend a blood test to check uric acid levels. However, high levels do not always mean gout, so joint fluid analysis is often more accurate. This involves drawing fluid from the affected joint to look for uric acid crystals under a microscope. Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions or to detect crystal buildup and joint damage. Once diagnosed, treatment for gout includes anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, and medications to lower uric acid. If you are dealing with toe pain that you suspect may be gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful 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.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist trained to treat the feet and ankles. After completing a four-year podiatric medical program and several years of hospital-based residency, they are skilled in diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions. This includes sports injuries, foot deformities, skin and nail issues, diabetic foot concerns, and chronic pain. Podiatrists may prescribe medication, offer custom orthotics, perform in-office procedures, or recommend surgery, when needed. They understand how foot health affects the entire body and often collaborate with other medical professionals to support patient well-being. Their goal is not just to relieve pain but to restore function and prevent future problems. Whether your symptoms are mild or worsening, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a professional evaluation and guidance tailored to your specific needs. 

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.

Retrocalcaneal bursitis, also known as heel bursitis, is the inflammation of the fluid-filled sac located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. This condition often develops from repetitive stress, overtraining, or wearing poor footwear that places excessive pressure on the back of the heel. Symptoms typically include swelling, redness, and pain when walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist can provide relief through proper diagnosis, custom orthotics, and treatments that reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence. Addressing the root cause is essential for healing and comfort. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, do not wait. Please promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment and relief solutions for heel bursitis.

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.

Some insoles now use a special material called spacer fabric, which is different from traditional foam or plastic. Spacer fabric is a breathable, flexible textile made to cushion the foot while still allowing air to flow. Compared to regular insoles, those made with spacer fabric can lower pressure on the toes and ball of the foot. One study showed more than an 8 percent drop in peak pressure and over 16 percent less pressure over time in these areas. People wearing insoles with two layers of spacer fabric also said they felt more comfortable while walking. Although the muscles in the legs worked the same with all insoles, the difference in comfort and pressure was clear. This shows that the materials used in insoles matter. If your feet feel sore or tired after walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, as well as a discussion on how custom orthotics might help you.

Custom orthotics can be an important solution for reducing foot pain by targeting its structural causes rather than just the symptoms. When the feet are misaligned, excess strain develops in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in discomfort in the arches, balls of the feet, or toes. Orthotics are designed to match each foot’s natural shape, supporting proper alignment and evenly distributing pressure to ease pain and improve movement.

Foot pain is commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that place added stress on sensitive areas. By stabilizing the foot and restoring natural motion, custom orthotics help reduce strain, calm inflammation, and promote healing. Many patients experience lasting relief and greater comfort while walking, standing, or exercising.

Created from a detailed assessment using advanced imaging or casting, each pair of orthotics is tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you contact our office for an evaluation and treatment.

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