Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often felt as a sharp, stabbing sensation, especially with the first steps in the morning. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed due to overuse, poor footwear, flat feet, or high arches. Patients may notice swelling, redness, or tightness in the arch or heel. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and imaging if needed. Traditional treatments include rest, stretching exercises, or orthotics. Each case is unique, and the right treatment plan can greatly improve comfort and mobility. If you are experiencing heel pain or suspect plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for expert evaluation and care.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best 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.

As people age, their feet often undergo changes that can affect comfort and mobility. Common foot issues among seniors issues include arthritis, which causes joint stiffness and pain, diabetes, which increases the risk of infections and poor healing, in addition to foot deformities such as corns and bunions that can make walking uncomfortable. These changes may develop gradually but can significantly impact daily activities and overall health. A podiatrist can assess foot health, provide treatments to relieve pain, and recommend proper footwear to improve stability and function. Routine foot care can help prevent complications and maintain independence. If you or a loved one are experiencing foot discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, while helping you to maintain your overall foot health.

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.

Young children and adolescents may develop a variety of toe-related issues, some linked to growth and others caused by injury or infection. Nails that curve into the surrounding skin can lead to soreness and swelling. Structural changes, such as toes that overlap or curl, may influence balance and walking comfort. Active play and sports sometimes result in stubbed toes, sprains, or small fractures that cause persistent discomfort. Skin and nail infections, including those caused by fungi, can also affect appearance and function. Addressing these concerns early helps prevent long-term problems and supports healthy foot development. A podiatrist can pinpoint the cause, suggest effective treatment, and offer advice on proper footwear and daily care. If your child has ongoing toe pain, visible deformity, or unusual changes in nails or skin, it is suggested that you arrange a visit with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.