Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC

Each of us has a unique walking pattern, defined as our gait. Gait is crucial for development because when observed at an early age, it can be an early diagnostic clue for conditions such as cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders. Normal gait requires adequate strength and balance from all participating joints. Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry would like to briefly explain some different types of abnormal gait. Scissors gait – This is when the legs are flexed slightly at the hips and knees in a crouching motion. The knees and thighs may hit each other crossing in a scissor-like movement. Waddling gait – This type of gait is usually observed in children and will cause a person to have a duck-like walk. Magnetic gait – This occurs when a person walks while shuffling their feet as if they stick to the ground. If you suffer from arthritis of the leg or foot joints or experience frequent corns, calluses, or swelling of the feet, call us immediately to discuss your treatme...

Everyone sweats throughout the day. It’s a natural process that keeps us from overheating. It’s only when sweaty feet become near-constant that it becomes a problem. Excessively sweaty feet are referred to as hyperhidrosis. At Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, we treat a large variety of foot conditions. Drs. Frank Killian and Sameep Chandrani are highly qualified podiatrists. We provide service to all patients in the Hamilton Township and Toms River, NJ, areas.   When an individual has hyperhidrosis, they sweat continuously. Though it’s not known what exactly causes this condition, it’s assumed to be genetic. The obvious and most apparent symptom is excessive sweating. The foot's appearance also changes. They take on a whitish or wet appearance. There will be a strong odor too.   It’s important to seek out podiatric care right away. Excessive sweating leads to fungal conditions and infections. At your appointment with Drs. Killian or Chandrani, your feet are thoroughly examined. This alo...

Whether you have a snowy winter season or not, it’s important to keep your feet warm in the colder months. Unavoidable weather conditions make it a dangerous time to have a foot injury. Ice and snow also increase your risk of ankle sprains and fractures. That’s why Drs. Frank Killian and Sameep Chandrani of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, have put together this winter care guide. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to our staff in Hamilton Township and Toms River, NJ.   The best tip for keeping your feet toasty is wearing the appropriate shoes. Slips and falls are huge hazards in the winter months. Try not to make risky shoe choices, like high heels. We recommend shoes that are low-heeled or boots. These provide you with the necessary traction. It makes the difference between slipping outside and a normal day! You don’t want to end up with a foot injury. You also need to invest in properly insulated footwear. You need water-resistant or insulated shoes to stay warm. It’s the best pr...

Dry skin on your feet can make you feel self-conscious and embarrassed. You don’t have to be with the proper treatment. At Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, Drs. Frank Killian and Sameep Chandrani offer top-tier podiatric treatment. Dry skin puts you at risk for contracting viruses and infections. Preventive care is of utmost importance. Visit our offices in Hamilton Township and Toms River to learn more.   It’s simple enough to diagnose and treat dry skin. The main symptoms are itchiness, red or flaky patches, and peeled/cracked areas. Certain fungal infections present similar symptoms. Your Hamilton Township and Toms River podiatrist will easily distinguish the two. One of these similar conditions is Athlete’s foot. Check around your toes for any blisters. This is a key sign of a fungal infection.   At your appointment with Drs. Killian or Chandrani, your feet are examined. Talk to your podiatrist about any past medical problems, especially any foot-related ones. There are certain risk fact...

With the fall sports season underway, now is a good time to pay attention to the dangers of turf toe. We help people with a lot of foot problems at Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, and sprains to the big toe usually respond well to treatment. But people need to know to take turf toe seriously or else their recovery may be delayed and compromised. “Turf toe” gets its name from the astroturf fields where big toe sprains commonly occur. The metatarsophalangeal joint that connects the big toe to the foot links to a complex network of ligaments and sesamoid bones that prevent the toe from moving too far sideways and allow it to curl and lift. When the toe is hyperextended, as can happen when the toes are supporting the weight of the whole body, the ligaments may tear or fray. Hyperextension is likelier to happen on surfaces that have less give. Whenever a person suspects they have a sprain, they should rest, ice, compress, and elevate (RICE) the foot. We’ll conduct a thorough movement and imaging tes...