Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC

By way of genetics or lifestyle choices over time, people with diabetes are unable to process glucose normally. Consistently high glucose levels in the body damage the nervous system and reduces sensation in your feet. Whether you regulate your glucose levels well or not, it’s still important to come in for checkups. We at Mercer-Ocean Podiatry in New Jersey encourage our diabetic patients to regularly visit one of our experienced podiatrists in order to prevent any long term issues with their feet. About 10% of Americans are diabetic. One side effect that people with diabetes often experience is reduced blood flow in their feet. Reduced blood flow increases the chances of foot injuries and bacterial infections, such as gangrene. We advise our diabetic patients to manage their glucose levels as best they can, since glucose levels in the normal range reduce the side effects of the disease. Remember to also inspect, wash, and moisturize your feel daily in addition to managing your glucos...

Diabetes is a disease that affects the way your body processes glucose. Over time, high glucose levels can damage the nervous system and reduce sensation in your feet. At Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, we encourage our patients who are diabetic to checkup with one of our podiatrists regularly to prevent any long term issues with your feet. With almost 10% of Americans having diabetes, many people are at an increased rate of reduced blood flow in their feet. Reduced blood flow increases your chances of foot injuries going untreated, and the potential for bacterial infections and gangrene. We advise patients who are diabetic to take extra precaution when it comes to managing your diabetes. Remember to check your feet daily, wash your feet daily, moisturize, manage your diabetes, and regularly wiggle your toes and feet for good circulation. If you are diabetic and haven’t had a checkup recently, schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists. Your health is our number one priority! Mercer-Oc...

Mercer-Ocean Podiatry has helped many diabetics manage their foot care and we encourage all diabetics to continue their foot care at home.  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.  Even when they are managing their 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.  A diabetic body’s diminished capacity to heal itself in the extremities can even lead to amputations when injuries and infections go unnoticed. This is why a short daily inspection of both feet can prevent huge problems.  Look for any abrasions, redness, swelling, and irregularities in the toenails.  Two or three times a day, spend five minutes moving your ankles and toes to encourage blood flow to the fee...

Mercer-Ocean Podiatry has seen many pregnant women navigate the changes in their feet throughout pregnancy, and swollen feet are the most common foot woe.  The body increases the overall amount of fluid in your body to help support the pregnancy, and this can end up your lower extremities. Gravity also plays a role, pulling that extra fluid down to your feet.  If you experience a lot of swelling, watching your salt intake can help because salt will make you retain fluid. There are a few instances when you should see a doctor about swelling. If you notice asymmetrical swelling, one foot much larger than the other, it could indicate a circulation issue. Legs can also experience swelling and cramping.  Stretching when you can and adding more calcium and potassium to your diet can keep cramps at bay.  Staying hydrated is important throughout pregnancy and will also help with cramping.  For cramping and swelling, it’s important to elevate the feet whenever possible.  Do not cross your legs,...

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...