A heel spur is a small, bony growth that develops on the underside or back of the heel bone. It forms when calcium deposits build up, often where ligaments or tendons attach to bone. Although some heel spurs cause no discomfort, others occur along with inflammation that contributes to heel pain. Symptoms include tenderness while walking or standing, especially after resting. Understanding what causes heel spurs can help you find relief and protect your foot health.

Age is a common risk factor, because the tissues supporting your feet change over time. Years of wear and tear may increase stress around the heel, allowing calcium deposits to develop. Overuse also contributes, particularly when running or standing for long periods without adequate support. Other risk factors include excess body weight, tight calf muscles, and poorly fitting shoes. People with plantar fasciitis may develop heel spurs because repeated tension affects the tissue that connects the heel to the toes.

Heel spur pain often feels worse during the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. Discomfort may ease as you move, then return after prolonged activity. However, the spur itself is not always the source of pain. A podiatrist can examine your foot, review your symptoms, and order an X-ray to confirm whether a spur is present. Treatment options include wearing supportive footwear and taking medication to reduce inflammation, when appropriate.

Most heel spurs improve with conservative care, and surgery is rarely necessary. A podiatrist will recommend a treatment plan based on your symptoms and daily activities. Do not avoid addressing persistent heel pain, since early evaluation can help prevent worsening discomfort. If you have heel pain or suspect a heel spur, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. Also known as tinea pedis, these organisms thrive in areas where sweat and moisture collect, making the feet especially vulnerable. Wearing closed shoes for extended periods may increase the risk, particularly when moisture becomes trapped around the feet. Athlete's foot spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pool areas are common places where the infection spreads. Although frequently associated with athletes, this fungal infection affects people of all activity levels. 

Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, and redness between the toes or along the soles. The affected skin may become dry, cracked, or scaly as the infection develops. Some individuals notice peeling skin or small blisters that cause additional discomfort. In certain cases, the infection spreads to the toenails, causing discoloration and thickening. Cracks in the skin may also increase the risk of bacterial infections. Athlete's foot sometimes resembles other skin problems, making an accurate diagnosis important. Without appropriate treatment, symptoms may persist or return, particularly when conditions continue to support fungal growth.

A podiatrist examines the affected skin to determine whether a fungal infection is responsible for the symptoms. During an evaluation, the podiatrist may collect a small skin sample to confirm the diagnosis and distinguish athlete's foot from similar conditions. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications designed to eliminate the infection. More persistent infections may require prescription-strength medication or additional treatment. Care from a podiatrist also focuses on identifying factors that contribute to recurring infections and protecting overall foot health. If you are experiencing persistent itching, peeling, or irritation on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM from New Jersey.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running can be great exercise, but foot pain from running can make each step uncomfortable. During each stride, the feet absorb forces that may reach about three times your body weight. Repeated impact can stress bones, joints, and soft tissues. Common conditions include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and big toe pain called hallux rigidus. Symptoms may develop gradually or appear after changes in mileage, speed, or running surface. Paying attention to early discomfort can help prevent a bigger problem.

Plantar fasciitis affects the thick band of tissue beneath the foot. It connects the heel to the toes and helps support the arch. Runners may feel sharp heel pain with their first steps after rest. Tight calf muscles, increased training, and poor foot support can raise the risk. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated loading. Pain worsens with activity and may include swelling or tenderness. Rapid training increases, hard surfaces, and inadequate recovery can contribute.

Hallux rigidus is stiffness and arthritis affecting the joint at the base of the big toe. Running can become painful when the toe bends during push-off. Symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, or a bump on top of the joint. Risk factors include foot structure, previous injury, and repeated stress. A podiatrist can examine your foot, review your training, and check how you walk. X-rays may be recommended. Treatment may include rest, footwear changes, or other care based on the diagnosis.

You do not have to ignore running-related foot pain or push through it. A podiatrist can identify your symptoms and develop a plan for healing. Treatment may also include gradual return-to-running guidance, when appropriate. Wearing supportive shoes and increasing training slowly can help protect your feet. If you have foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular activity.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Wendy L. Grossman, DPM  from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Foot pain in children can happen for many reasons, including activity, injury, or an underlying foot problem. Common symptoms are aching, tenderness, or pain after sports. Children may also complain that their feet feel tired or hurt while walking. Foot pain can affect the heel, arch, or ankle, depending on the cause.

Several types of foot pain can affect children. Blisters and pressure spots may develop when shoes rub the skin. Sprains can happen during play. Flat feet, heel pain, and problems with foot alignment may also cause discomfort. Risk factors include high activity levels, previous injuries, and structural differences. Children may not always explain pain clearly, so parents should watch for changes in walking, frequent shoe removal, or avoiding activities.

Proper footwear can help protect growing feet during everyday activities. Shoes should provide enough room for toes without allowing the foot to slide inside. A supportive heel counter can improve stability, while flexible materials allow comfortable movement. Good cushioning can reduce pressure during walking and sports. Children often react quickly when shoes feel uncomfortable. They may complain, remove their shoes, or refuse to wear them. Parents should take these reactions seriously and check for tight areas, rubbing, or worn-out soles.

When foot pain continues, a podiatrist can examine the child's feet, walking pattern, and footwear. The evaluation may include checking alignment, range of motion, and signs of injury. Treatment depends on the cause and may include activity changes, supportive shoes, or care for an injury. A podiatrist can also recommend footwear and monitor healing. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on how to know if your child’s shoes are comfortable.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor 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 office located in Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.