Plantar fasciitis is a common overuse injury that occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, is damaged due to repetitive stress. This condition is frequently seen in athletes and those who work on their feet, but can affect anyone. Plantar fasciitis causes heel and arch pain that can range from mild to severe. Treatments for plantar fasciitis will depend on the severity and duration of the symptoms. Resting the affected foot by limiting its movements is usually the first line of treatment. Your podiatrist may recommend avoiding certain sports or prolonged periods of standing. Changing footwear and taking anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Your podiatrist may also suggest wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to better support your feet, taping the foot, wearing a night splint, and doing light stretching exercises. Surgery can be considered in severe cases where conservative treatments have failed. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

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.

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that thrives in warm and moist environments. The condition develops when dermatophyte fungi grow on the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. These fungi feed on keratin, the protein in skin, hair, and nails, and spread quickly in damp settings like locker rooms, public showers, and around swimming pools. The infection often begins with itching, redness, and peeling between the toes. If left untreated, it can spread to the soles, toenails, or even the hands. Wearing tight shoes, sweating heavily, or keeping feet damp for long periods of time increases the risk. Sharing shoes, socks, or towels with others can also pass the fungus along. Because athlete’s foot rarely clears without care, early attention makes a difference. If you notice persistent itching, burning, or scaling on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Swollen feet and ankles occur when fluid builds up in the tissues, causing puffiness and discomfort. This condition can result from standing for long periods of time, hot weather, sitting too long, or lingering effects of old injuries. While mild swelling is often temporary, persistent swelling may signal underlying circulation issues, joint problems, or other medical concerns. Risk factors include aging, obesity, pregnancy, and certain health conditions, such as heart or kidney disease. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, provide treatment options, and recommend lifestyle changes or supportive footwear to reduce discomfort. If your feet and ankles are consistently swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective management tips. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Diabetes can have a profound effect on the feet due to its impact on both nerves and circulation. Nerve damage, also called diabetic neuropathy, may reduce the ability to feel pain or temperature changes in the feet. This can allow small injuries, burns, or sores to go unnoticed and worsen over time. The loss of sensation can also lead to structural changes in the bones, joints, and muscles of the feet. Some people may still experience tingling, burning, or sharp pain from nerve involvement. Poor circulation, often linked to narrowed arteries, limits the blood flow needed for healing. This leaves the feet more vulnerable to ulcers or other problems. Infections can spread quickly in feet affected by diabetes and are harder to treat due to slower healing. A podiatrist can identify early warning signs, provide treatment for ulcers or infections, and help prevent severe complications. If you have complications from diabetes that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for regular treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.