Items filtered by date: June 2024

Stress fractures, common to runners and other athletes, result in placing excessive strain on the foot bones. One significant cause of stress fractures is a sudden increase in physical activity, whether it involves frequency, duration, or intensity. Transitioning from soft surfaces such as indoor tracks to harder ones like sidewalks can stress the bones of the feet. Improper technique due to foot conditions like blisters or bunions can also contribute by altering the foot's natural movement patterns and redistributing weight unevenly. Footwear that is poorly fitting, worn-out, or lacking proper support significantly increases the risk of stress fractures. While athletes commonly experience these injuries, non-athletes are also susceptible from extended walking on uneven terrain during vacations. Other risk factors for foot stress fractures, including osteoporosis, which reduces bone density and strength, as well as low vitamin D levels. Female athletes face other risks, possibly due to biomechanical differences, hormonal factors, and nutritional deficiencies. If you are experiencing pain in your foot after activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate testing and treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Gout, a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, affects both men and women, though it is more prevalent in men. However, women are increasingly affected, especially after menopause. Before menopause, estrogen helps to lower uric acid levels, providing a protective effect. After menopause, the decline in estrogen levels leads to higher uric acid levels, increasing the risk of gout. Women with gout often experience symptoms in different joints compared to men, with a higher likelihood of affecting the knees and wrists. Additionally, women may face a delayed diagnosis, as gout is traditionally associated with men. Understanding the gender differences in gout can lead to better awareness and treatment options for women, ensuring timely management and improved quality of life. Gout generally affects the joints and the big toe and can produce a significant amount of pain and discomfort. If you have this type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It involves the thickening of tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, often caused by irritation or compression. Symptoms include a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness in the toes, and the sensation of having a pebble in your shoe. A podiatrist diagnoses Morton's neuroma through a physical examination, assessing the affected area for tenderness and swelling. Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be used to rule out other conditions. The duration of symptoms can vary, with some people experiencing intermittent pain while others may have chronic discomfort. Prevention includes wearing well-fitting shoes with a wide toe box and avoiding high heels. Treatment options range from conservative approaches like rest and orthotics to corticosteroid injections and, in severe cases, surgery. For persistent pain and personalized treatment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 doctors 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 offices located in Hamilton, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As individuals age, the risk of experiencing a fall increases, posing significant threats to their health and independence. Understanding the factors that contribute to falls is vital in implementing preventive measures. Common risk factors for falling in older people include muscle weakness, balance impairment, vision problems, and certain medications that may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Environmental hazards, such as uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or slippery floors also heighten the risk. Fortunately, proactive steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of falls. Engaging in regular exercise to improve strength, balance, and flexibility can enhance stability and coordination. Conducting home safety assessments and making necessary modifications can help create a safer living environment. Included are installing grab bars, securing rugs, and improving lighting. Regular vision check-ups and medication reviews with healthcare providers help decrease potential risks. Falling can seriously impact the feet as well as other body parts. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess your foot condition, provide treatment, and offer you effective fall-prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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