Heel pain can stem from various causes, leading to significant discomfort and disruption in daily activities. One of the most prevalent causes is plantar fasciitis, where inflammation of the tissue connecting your heel to your toes leads to sharp pain. Other possible culprits include heel spurs, which are bony growths that develop on the heel bone, and Achilles tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel. Complications from untreated heel pain include an altered gait, which might lead to additional strain on other joints and muscles, potentially causing further issues. Proper diagnosis is key to addressing the root cause of heel pain and preventing ongoing problems. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend an effective treatment plan to relieve your symptoms.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. It commonly affects the big toe and can be caused by improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms include sharp, throbbing pain, increased sensitivity, and, in more severe cases, infection with pus or drainage. Initial treatments for an ingrown toenail involve soaking the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce inflammation and pain. Mild pain relievers and antibiotic ointments can manage discomfort and prevent infection. Avoid cutting the nail yourself as improper trimming can worsen the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, professional treatment from a podiatrist may be necessary. For a comprehensive evaluation and effective management of an ingrown toenail, it's suggested you make 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 Crosstown Podiatry. 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

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle fractures occur when one or more bones in the ankle joint break, often due to a fall, twist, or sports injury. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling or bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle. Treatment for an ankle fracture depends on the severity of the break. For minor fractures, elevating the ankle is recommended, along with immobilization using a cast or splint. More severe fractures may require surgical intervention to realign the bones and secure them with pins, plates, or screws. After surgery or immobilization, exercises help restore strength and mobility. Follow-up care with a podiatrist ensures proper healing and helps prevent complications. If you experience ongoing pain after an injury or suspect an ankle fracture, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who specializes in diagnosing and treating foot problems and can guide you through the recovery process to ensure optimal healing.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet, often caused by the fungus tinea pedis. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools prime locations for infection. The condition typically causes itching, redness, and scaling between the toes, and can sometimes spread to the soles of the feet. The primary cause is exposure to the fungus, which can be contracted from contaminated surfaces or by sharing footwear. Individuals with sweaty feet or compromised immune systems are at higher risk. To address athlete's foot, start with antifungal treatments, available as creams, powders, or sprays. Keeping feet clean and dry is key and you should wash your feet daily, dry thoroughly, and change socks frequently. Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking socks and avoiding tight, non-ventilated shoes can also help. For persistent or severe cases of athlete's foot, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a more advanced treatment plan, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right walking shoes is important for comfort and injury prevention, as walking is an easy and inexpensive way to exercise. Unlike running shoes, walking shoes should provide specific features tailored to walking motions. Opt for motion-controlled shoes to enhance stability and prevent excessive foot movement. Ensure the shoes bend easily at the ball of the foot to facilitate natural walking motions. The insole should contour to your foot for added support, cushioning, and shock absorption. A snug heel fit is essential to prevent slipping, but it should not be tight to avoid discomfort. Additionally, the toe box should be spacious enough to allow your toes to move freely, preventing blisters and bunions. Investing in proper walking shoes will make your walks more enjoyable and beneficial. If you need further assistance in choosing the right walking shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can give you additional tips.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.