Items filtered by date: May 2024

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. They arise when calcium deposits build up over several months, usually where the foot muscles connect to the heel bone. Commonly linked with plantar fasciitis, these spurs are often a response to strain, repeated stress, or chronic inflammation of the foot muscles and ligaments. Although heel spurs themselves are not always painful, they can lead to discomfort and pain in the foot, particularly during activities like walking or running. Risk factors for heel spurs include wearing poor footwear, excess weight, and an active lifestyle that puts repetitive stress on the feet. To manage the discomfort associated with heel spurs, treatments can include exercise, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and adequate rest. In persistent cases, more invasive interventions like injections or surgery may be necessary. If you have a bothersome heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

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 Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Understanding your gait, or the way you run, can improve your running technique. As a runner, you have likely developed your own style, but analyzing your gait can reveal areas for performance enhancement and injury prevention. During analysis, a podiatrist would typically start by observing your running pattern on a treadmill, paying close attention to the movements of your lower limbs, pelvis, and trunk. They may use video recording or specialized motion analysis software to capture and analyze your gait in detail. They also may conduct physical examinations to assess your joint mobility, muscle strength, and any structural abnormalities that could affect your running mechanics. By combining these observations with your medical history and any reported symptoms, the podiatrist can identify specific areas of concern and develop a tailored treatment plan. This plan may include exercises to improve muscle strength and flexibility, recommendations for footwear or orthotics to provide support and alignment, and guidance on proper running technique. If you experience recurring discomfort or want to maximize your running potential, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation of your gait, and suggestions for improving it.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain caused by arthritis can be debilitating, affecting mobility and quality of life. Arthritis in the feet often presents with symptoms such as joint stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and reduced range of motion. This pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest, making it challenging to engage in daily tasks comfortably. Different types of arthritis can affect the feet, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis typically develops due to wear and tear on the joints over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that affects the lining of the joints. Gout results from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. If you have foot pain that persists or worsens, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or warmth in the joints, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. If the pain is determined to be arthritic, a podiatrist can offer relief methods to help maintain mobility and enhance your quality of life.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that thrives in moist, warm environments. This makes it common for people who wear tight, sweaty shoes for extended periods or use communal showers and locker rooms. The fungus infects the skin in the toes and causes itching, burning, and peeling. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, may suggest antifungal medications to apply topically, usually for a couple of weeks until the infection clears up. For more severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. Preventative measures include keeping the feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and wearing well-ventilated shoes. Antifungal powders for shoes and socks may also be suggested as prevention. In addition, avoiding barefoot walking in public areas and using separate towels for your feet can help prevent the spread and recurrence of athlete's foot. If you suspect an athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for relief. 

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 Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center.  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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.