Diabetic foot neuropathy is a nerve related condition that develops as a result of prolonged high blood glucose levels. It occurs when elevated sugar levels damage the nerves, particularly in the feet, leading to reduced sensation and impaired function. This condition is a common complication of diabetes and can affect balance, mobility, and overall foot health. Because the nerves are responsible for transmitting signals, any disruption can prevent the body from recognizing pain or injury, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Symptoms of diabetic foot neuropathy often begin gradually and may include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, and a feeling of pins and needles in the feet. Some individuals experience sharp or shooting pain, while others notice a loss of sensitivity to temperature or touch. This reduced sensation can make it difficult to detect cuts, blisters, or pressure points. As the condition progresses, muscle weakness and changes in foot shape may occur, further increasing the risk of injury and infection.

The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is uncontrolled high blood glucose, which damages the small blood vessels that supply the nerves. Risk factors include long term diabetes, poor blood sugar management, smoking, and reduced circulation. Individuals with a history of foot problems or those who are overweight may also face a higher risk. These factors contribute to nerve damage over time, making early detection and consistent care essential for preventing complications.

Managing diabetic foot neuropathy involves controlling blood glucose levels and protecting the feet from injury. Regular foot examinations, wearing proper footwear, and daily hygiene play a key role in prevention. Medical treatment may include medications to manage nerve pain and improve function. Early intervention can reduce the risk of ulcers and infections. If you have symptoms of neuropathy from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer relief and management tips.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue surrounding a nerve between the toes becomes thicker because of repeated pressure or irritation. The problem usually affects the space between the third and fourth toes. As the tissue thickens, it squeezes the nerve and creates pain. Many people describe the feeling as though they are standing on a small pebble or have a fold in their sock. Burning pain, tingling, and numbness are also common. Symptoms usually become worse while walking or wearing tight, narrow shoes. Removing the shoes can bring temporary relief, but discomfort frequently returns when pressure on the nerve continues. Some people notice pain even while resting after a busy day.

Several factors increase the risk of Morton’s neuroma. Shoes that squeeze the toes place extra pressure on the nerve. High-heeled shoes can also increase stress on the front of the foot. Certain foot shapes, like flat feet or high arches, can change the way pressure is spread across the foot. A podiatrist diagnoses the condition by discussing symptoms and carefully examining the foot. Gentle pressure between the toes can help locate the irritated nerve. An ultrasound or MRI scan can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions when a clearer view of the affected area is needed.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan that reduces pressure on the affected nerve and improves comfort. Treatment includes shoes with a wide toe area, custom orthotics, and steroid injections. These options can reduce irritation and make walking more comfortable. When symptoms continue despite treatment, surgery to remove the affected nerve can provide lasting relief. Early diagnosis helps prevent symptoms from becoming more disruptive and allows treatment to begin before pain limits daily activities. Prompt care also helps patients stay active with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Ankle pain can make it difficult to stay active and perform everyday tasks. The ankle is a complex joint made of bones, ligaments, and cartilage that work together to provide support and movement. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, while tendons connect muscles to bones. Pain can develop after an injury or from repeated stress placed on the joint. Arthritis, tendon injuries, and ligament damage also can lead to ankle pain. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can place extra strain on the ankle and surrounding tissues. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness. Some patients also notice bruising, weakness, or difficulty while walking. In more serious cases, the ankle can feel unstable or give way during activity.

A podiatrist begins by learning when the pain started and how it affects daily activities. The examination includes checking the ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also watches how the patient stands and walks to identify problems with balance or movement. Imaging tests, like X-rays, an ultrasound, or MRI scans, help identify broken bones, torn ligaments, or tendon injuries. Finding the exact cause of ankle pain is important because different conditions require different types of treatment. An accurate diagnosis also helps prevent the problem from becoming more severe and supports a safer return to normal activities.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ankle pain. A podiatrist creates a care plan that improves movement while reducing stress on the injured joint. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and provide better support. It also includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve stability. Patients with severe ligament tears, advanced arthritis, or complex fractures may require surgery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a  diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Children’s foot health is an important part of overall growth and development. Healthy feet provide the foundation for walking, running, jumping, and participating in sports and other activities. Because children’s feet are still developing, it is important to monitor how they move and whether they experience any discomfort. While some foot concerns are temporary and related to growth, others may require professional evaluation. Parents may notice signs such as frequent tripping, uneven shoe wear, complaints of foot pain, or changes in the way a child walks. Identifying potential problems early can help support healthy development and prevent future complications.

A variety of conditions can affect children’s feet. Flat feet, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and skin conditions such as plantar warts are among the more common concerns seen in young patients. Some children may also develop foot or ankle pain related to sports participation or increased physical activity. Because children are often active throughout the day, foot problems can affect their ability to participate comfortably in school, recreation, and sports. In some cases, discomfort may cause a child to change the way they walk, which can place additional stress on the feet and lower limbs. Regular assessment of foot health can help identify issues before they become more significant.

Podiatric care focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of foot and ankle conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate a child’s foot structure, walking pattern, and overall foot function to identify concerns that may be affecting mobility or comfort. Early intervention may help address developing problems and support healthy movement as a child grows. Whether the issue involves foot pain, an abnormal gait, or a common pediatric foot condition, professional care can help improve function and comfort. If your child is experiencing foot pain or other foot-related concerns, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Mercer Ocean Podiatry. 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 Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.