The human foot is a complex structure made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These components work together to provide stability, flexibility, and mobility. The foot is divided into three main sections, which are the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. The toes, or phalanges, and the metatarsals form the forefoot, while the midfoot contains the arches and bones that absorb shock. The hindfoot consists of the heel, or calcaneus, and ankle bones, providing support and balance. Muscles and tendons in the foot enable movement, from walking to running, while ligaments help to stabilize the joints. The arches of the foot, formed by the bones and supported by muscles and tendons, play a key role in shock absorption and weight distribution. Proper foot function is essential for overall mobility and posture. A podiatrist can help identify and treat conditions affecting the foot's bones, muscles, or joints. If you have a foot condition or foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop, leading to discomfort, pain, and instability. Foot orthotics are specially designed inserts that can help manage this condition by providing support to the arch. By redistributing pressure evenly across the foot, orthotics can reduce strain on the muscles and ligaments, alleviating pain commonly associated with flat feet. Custom-made orthotics are tailored to the individual’s unique foot structure, ensuring proper alignment and improving overall foot function. They can also help correct abnormal gait patterns caused by flat feet, and posture, and reduce the risk of further injury. Foot orthotics are effective for people with flat feet, promoting comfort and mobility throughout daily activities. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition, which may include prescribing custom-made orthotics.

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 . 

Breaking in new shoes properly is essential to prevent foot blisters and discomfort. When shoes are too stiff or tight, they can cause friction against the skin, leading to blisters. To avoid this, start by wearing the shoes for short periods around the house. This allows your feet to adjust gradually without putting too much pressure on them. You can also soften the shoes by using a leather conditioner or applying heat with a hairdryer to make the material more flexible. Wearing socks that cushion and reduce friction can help protect the skin as you break in the shoes. Additionally, using blister pads or moleskin on areas prone to rubbing provides extra protection. If you have developed one or more foot blisters, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat existing blisters, and guide you on additional ways to prevent them while wearing new shoes.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. There are different types of ingrown toenails, including curled, spoon, and pincer-shaped nails. Curled toenails grow inward due to their natural shape, often causing pressure on the skin. Spoon nails, which are concave and curved upward, can cause the edges of the toenail to dig into the skin. Pincer nails, where the toenail is excessively curved inward from both sides, can lead to more severe irritation and pain. Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic predisposition. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected and lead to more serious complications. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose and treat ingrown toenails, providing pain relief, infection management, and guidance on proper nail care to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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.