Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC

Morton’s neuroma occurs when the nerves that reach out to the toes are squeezed between the bones and ligaments in the foot.  When toes are squeezed together for too long or too often, the extra pressure on the nerves causes the surrounding tissue to become swollen and thicken.  This can happen to several nerves in the foot, but most commonly affects the area between the third and fourth toes.  Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry can diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma if you have this pain in your foot! The largest contributor to this pain by far is ill-fitting or constrictive footware.  Both men and women wear shoes too tight and narrow for them, but high heels increase the pressure and constriction on the toes, so Morton’s neuroma is more common in women due to their footwear.  Certain high-impact sports can contribute to Morton’s neuroma, when the feet and toes experience repeated trauma.  Patients with existing deformities in the foot like bunions or high arches are also at...

Calluses can develop anywhere that there is repeated friction. However, the common callus usually occurs when there’s been a lot of rubbing against the hands or feet. Calluses are rarely painful and typically develop on the soles of your feet, especially under the heels or balls, on your palms, or on your knees. If a callus on the foot becomes very painful or inflamed, visit Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC to get the issue under control. Pressure and friction from repetitive actions cause calluses to develop and grow. Some sources of this pressure and friction include wearing ill-fitting shoes, wearing shoes and sandals without socks, or by wearing socks that don’t fit properly. At Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, a callus is diagnosed upon examination and simple over-the-counter treatments may be recommended. In severe cases, calluses may require regular shaving to keep them from becoming too large. While treatment for calluses is not always necessary, it may provide you with...

Diagnosed diabetics should be taking the time for proper foot care in their routines. A diabetic’s weakened immune system and reduced blood flow to the extremities like feet can mean small injuries have the potential to wreak havoc due to the body being unable to heal itself in this area.  Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry has helped many diabetics manage their foot care and encourages all diabetics to continue their foot care at home. In addition to managing blood sugar properly, diabetics should pay special attention to their feet.  A short daily inspection and a few minutes encouraging circulation are simple preventative measures that can make all the difference for a diabetic.  A diabetic body’s diminished capacity to heal itself in the extremities can sadly lead to amputations when injuries and infections go unnoticed. This is why a daily inspection of both feet can prevent huge problems.  Look for any abrasions, redness, swelling, and irregularities in the toenails.  Man...

Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry has seen many patients who have dealt with ingrown toenails.  When the toenails grow, the curved sides of the nail can grow downward into the skin and create an ingrown toenail. This can cause pain, swelling and irritation, and in cases where the nail is actually cutting into the skin, it leaves the toe open to infection.  Ingrown toenails are common and treatable, but prevention is important for those prone to ingrown toenails.  It can be hereditary, and these patients are advised to take the same precautions that can help anyone avoid ingrown toenails.  Wearing socks or shoes that are too tight in the toe area should also be avoided.  Properly trimming your toenails is the most important thing to do to prevent toenails from becoming ingrown.  Cutting the toenails too short or at an angle can encourage the nail to grow into the flesh.  Toenails should be cut straight across, and left long enough that you can get one fingernail underneath the ...