Keeping your feet healthy as you age can make them more comfortable and help you stay active. Aging can change the skin, muscles, and circulation. These changes may increase the chance of common foot problems. Wearing supportive shoes and having good hygiene helps protect foot health. Paying attention to changes in pain, swelling, or walking comfort is important. Early attention to foot problems can make them easier to manage.
Bunions and hammertoes are common concerns. A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe as the top of the toe moves toward the others. Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more smaller toes to bend downward at a joint instead of lying flat. Risk factors include age, family history, and wearing shoes that cause pressure on the toes. Arthritis can contribute to stiffness and deformity. Symptoms may include aching, redness, or difficulty wearing shoes.
Healthy habits can lower the chance of worsening foot problems. Wash and dry your feet each day between the toes. Moisturize dry skin, but avoid lotion between the toes. Choose shoes with enough room for your toes and a stable sole. Additionally, trim toenails and inspect your feet daily for blisters, cuts, or pressure spots. If pain develops, avoid pushing through it. A podiatrist can examine your feet, assess your walking pattern, and identify problems needing treatment.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem. A podiatrist may recommend footwear changes, padding, or medication. For bunions or hammertoes that remain painful, surgery may be considered when other options fail. Regular follow-up can help track changes and protect mobility. If you are aging and noticing foot pain or new deformities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Orlando Orlando and Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
