An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes strained, torn, or ruptured. Football players are particularly at risk due to sudden sprints, jumps, and rapid direction changes that place intense stress on the tendon. Risk factors include poor conditioning, tight calf muscles, overuse, and previous injuries. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or pushing off the foot. A podiatrist can provide diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies tailored to each patient. An Achilles tendon injury can cause severe pain and discomfort, making it difficult to complete daily activities. If you or someone you know has endured this type of injury, it is suggested that a podiatrist is consulted who can effectively treat this condition.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete 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.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection that develops when fungi invade the nail, leading to thickened, brittle, or discolored nails. It spreads easily in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and tight shoes that trap moisture. Risk factors include diabetes, weakened immunity, poor circulation, or a history of athlete’s foot. Symptoms often include yellowing nails, crumbling edges, foul odor, or discomfort while walking. Left untreated, the infection can worsen and spread. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide targeted treatments, and prevent recurrence with professional guidance. If you notice signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Onychocryptosis, commonly known as an ingrown toenail, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or narrow shoes, injury to the toe, or an abnormal nail shape. Risk factors include genetics, poor foot hygiene, and repeated trauma from activities like running or sports. Symptoms include tenderness along the nail border, infection, and pain while walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can provide professional treatment, including safe removal of the ingrown portion, infection control, and guidance on proper nail care to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with pain from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions, which may include minor surgery for partial removal.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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.

The foot is a remarkably complex structure that allows you to stand, walk, run, and adapt to countless daily demands. Because of this complexity, foot problems require careful evaluation rather than a one-size-fits-all fix. A podiatrist will review your health history, examine your feet in a resting position, and study how they function while walking or standing. This detailed approach helps create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Orthotics often play an important role by improving balance, alignment, and comfort. Yet, they are even more effective when paired with other therapies. For example, a podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises to build strength, stretching to reduce tightness, or footwear changes to reduce stress on the foot. Education about proper orthotic use also helps patients get the most benefit from their care and maintain long-term foot health. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment, including the use of custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics play an important role in preventing and treating foot and ankle injuries by providing personalized support that aligns with the unique structure of each foot. These specially designed devices help correct biomechanical imbalances, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and improve stability during movement. When the feet are properly supported, the risk of developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and ankle sprains can be significantly reduced. Custom orthotics also help relieve discomfort caused by having flat feet, high arches, or uneven leg length, which may contribute to recurring injuries or pain.

Foot and ankle injuries can develop gradually from repetitive strain or occur suddenly during physical activity. Without proper treatment, these injuries can affect mobility and overall quality of life. Orthotics work to redistribute weight evenly across the foot, allowing joints and muscles to function more efficiently. This not only supports recovery from injury but can also prevent future problems by promoting better posture and alignment throughout the lower body.

Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on a detailed evaluation of each patient’s foot structure, gait, and medical needs. Podiatrists use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to create orthotics that fit precisely and provide targeted correction. Whether used in everyday footwear or athletic shoes, custom orthotics can improve comfort, enhance performance, and support long-term foot health.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain or have sustained an injury that has not improved with rest, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Call 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 .