February 2025

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is a common complication of diabetes,  although it can also result from other conditions like alcohol abuse or certain medications. It often affects the feet and legs, causing a range of symptoms. People with neuropathy may feel a tingling, burning, or numb sensation, which can make walking or standing uncomfortable. In more severe cases, the pain may be sharp or stabbing, and the feet may look red, swollen, or develop sores. The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is high blood sugar, which damages the nerves over time. Managing blood sugar levels is key to slowing progression. Certain medications may be prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort. A podiatrist plays an important role in managing neuropathy by regularly monitoring foot health, checking for wounds, and providing pain relief strategies. They can offer custom orthotics, recommend specialized footwear, and help with wound care if neuropathy has caused skin damage. If you have neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist fo relief tips.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Teaneck, 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 occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened, causing irritation and pressure on the nerve. This condition often results from repeated irritation or injury to the foot. The main causes of Morton's neuroma include wearing tight, high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes together, engaging in high-impact activities, and having certain foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include sharp, burning pain, numbness, or a feeling of something being trapped in the ball of the foot. The pain typically worsens when standing, walking, or wearing tight shoes. In some cases, a tingling sensation or swelling may also occur. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor 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 office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease is caused by narrowed or blocked arteries that reduce blood flow to the feet, toes, and ankles. One effective way to diagnose peripheral artery disease is through the ankle-brachial index test, or ABI, which measures blood pressure at the ankle and the arm while at rest. In some cases, the test is repeated after a brief period of exercise, such as walking, to evaluate changes in blood flow. A normal result, with an ankle-brachial index of 1.0 to 1.4, indicates healthy blood flow. A lower or higher ratio may indicate peripheral artery disease, which can lead to pain, numbness, or slow-healing wounds in the feet and ankles. A podiatrist can conduct ABI testing and offer guidance to reduce the risks of further complications like ulcers or infections. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right shoes is essential for people with bunions, as these bony protrusions on the side of the big toe joint can lead to chronic discomfort and mobility issues. Shoes that provide relief should have a wide, roomy toe box to reduce pressure on the bunion and surrounding toes. Soft, flexible materials like leather or mesh can help prevent irritation. Heels no higher than two inches and cushioned soles offer added support and stability. Extra-depth shoes may be beneficial for accommodating bunions and any associated issues such as corns or calluses. Adjustable features, like laces or straps, allow for a better fit as feet change over time. Orthotic inserts can be added to relieve pressure, support the arch, and improve alignment. A podiatrist can guide patients in selecting the most appropriate footwear or, if needed, recommend custom-made shoe inserts to address severe deformities. If you have problematic or painful bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options, which may include shoe selection.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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