Heel pain is a common issue that can affect the underside, back, or side of the heel. Plantar fasciitis is the most common source of pain that occurs under the heel, and Achilles tendonitis is the most common source of pain at the back of the heel. Other causes of heel pain include arthritis, infection, trauma, or neurological issues. Heel bursitis, heel spurs, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and stress fractures can result in heel pain as well. Because heel pain often gradually becomes worse, it is important to consult with a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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.

If you are suffering from heel pain, it could be a result of plantar fasciitis, which is the leading cause of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This commonly occurs in those who have problems with their arches, such as flat feet or overpronation. Common plantar fasciitis symptoms include pain in the bottom of the heel or the arch of the foot, pain that increases over time, pain that is worse when getting up in the morning, and swelling on the bottom of the heel. If you believe that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, it is important to visit a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment method that may include medicine, taping/strapping, orthotics, casts, therapy, or surgery.

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 Crosstown Podiatry. 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 Wayne, Montclair, and Randolph, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity of the toes that causes the small toes to bend at the joint. If left untreated, hammertoes can be permanent. Common signs of hammertoe include curling toes, thickening of the skin on the affected toe, trouble finding shoes that fit correctly, and pain. One of the leading causes of hammertoe is poor fitting shoes. Avoid shoes that have a narrow and pointed toe, that are too tight, or that have a high heel. Shoes that have wide toe boxes and are roughly a half inch longer than your longest toe are generally best to reduce the risk of hammertoe. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan for hammertoe will require visiting a podiatrist, so if you believe that you are suffering from hammertoe, consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Blisters on the feet can typically develop from friction. This can occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from excessive walking and hiking. A blister is defined as a small pocket of fluid that forms to protect the damaged skin. When the skin has repaired itself, the blister will gradually drain. Some patients find it helpful to put powder or cornstarch inside their shoes and socks, which may absorb excess moisture. If a blister on your foot has developed, it is important that you give it immediate attention to protect it, as this can be beneficial in preventing an infection from occurring. This can be accomplished by covering it with a bandage until it has drained naturally. If you get blisters on your feet, It is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist, who can guide you toward prevention strategies.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

There are a few telling signs that may indicate you are experiencing poor circulation in your lower legs and feet. Common symptoms of poor circulation may include fatigue or cramping during physical activity, cramping during inactivity, swelling and achiness, tingling, and a persistent coldness. Poor circulation can make going about your everyday activities incredibly uncomfortable and can be an indicator of more serious health concerns. A lack of feeling or numbness can also develop in your lower extremities, increasing the risk of wounds going undetected. If wounds develop on your feet and are left untreated, it’s possible they may become infected, which can lead to serious complications down the road. For professional advice on how to treat poor circulation in your lower legs and feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Crosstown Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.