Ankle fusion surgery is used to treat severe ankle pain, often caused by advanced osteoarthritis that damages the joint. In this procedure, the ankle bones are joined so the joint no longer moves. This can help to reduce pain by stopping bone-on-bone contact when you move. One of the main benefits of ankle fusion surgery is strong pain relief and improved stability, which can make standing and walking easier. However, there are important drawbacks. For instance, the ankle loses its natural motion, which can affect balance and change walking patterns. In addition, nearby joints may take on more stress, which can lead to additional discomfort. Recovery can take months, as the bones heal and fuse into one solid structure. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, review X-rays, and determine if this procedure is the right option based on your condition. If you have severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls excessively inward while walking or running. This is often due to a flexible foot structure and increased side-to-side movement. It can develop from genetics, obesity, arthritis, or nerve issues related to diabetes that affect muscle control and stability. Symptoms include foot pain, heel discomfort, ankle strain, and uneven shoe wear. Risk factors involve flat arches, repetitive impact activities, and prolonged standing, which can place added stress on joints and ligaments. A podiatrist can evaluate gait mechanics and identify underlying causes. Treatment options include custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and supportive footwear to improve alignment. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. 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 our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can affect walking, standing, and daily movement. The ankle is a hinge-like joint that connects the leg and foot, allowing up-and-down motion.  Pain in this area often results from ankle tendonitis. This is caused by irritation of a tendon, which is a strong band that connects muscles to bones and helps control movement. When they become inflamed from overuse, sudden injury, or certain medical conditions, pain, swelling, and stiffness can develop. The Achilles tendon and other tendons around the ankle are often involved. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam, check joint stability, and order imaging as needed. Treatment plans include bracing, custom orthotics, or immobilization to support healing and reduce strain on the tendons. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. It affects approximately one person in ten and is a leading cause of heel pain. Causes involve repetitive strain, prolonged standing, and wearing improper footwear. Risk factors include high or low arches, obesity, and tight calf muscles. A key symptom is sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, or after rest. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom treatment plans, and recommend supportive therapies. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.