Ankle Disorders in Seniors
As people age, the risk of developing ankle disorders increases due to factors like decreased muscle strength, reduced balance, and the natural wear and tear on joints. Some of the most common ankle disorders in the elderly include arthritis, tendonitis, and ankle sprains. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is prevalent among seniors. It occurs when the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, can also affect the ankles, causing inflammation and discomfort. Tendonitis, the inflammation of the tendons, often affects the Achilles tendon in older adults. This condition results from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity and can cause significant pain and swelling. Ankle sprains, while common at any age, are particularly concerning for the elderly due to the increased risk of falls. Weakened ligaments and poor balance make seniors more susceptible to these injuries, highlighting the importance of supportive footwear and regular exercise for optimal ankle strength and flexibility. If you are a senior and have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle Pain
The ankle joint is the point at which the bones of the leg and foot join. This joint is crucial because it is responsible for the foot’s mobility. Ankle pain is typically the result of inflammation from an injury to bones, joint space, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the area. Commonly associated symptoms with ankle pain are bruising, redness, numbness, stiffness, weakness, and tingling.
The most common causes of ankle pain are sprains and injuries. Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. Sprains occur when the ligaments of the ankle become partially or completely torn due to sudden stretching. Sprains can occur on either the inner or outer sides of the ankle joint. Usually, these injuries occur when the ankle is twisted in an activity by stepping off an uneven surface. More specific causes include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendonitis.
If you are experiencing ankle pain, you should consult with your podiatrist to choose the best method of care. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your ankle to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
Stretches Can Promote Foot Health
Maintaining foot health is important, especially considering how much pressure your feet endure daily. Incorporating regular stretches into your routine can significantly enhance strength, flexibility, and overall comfort, reducing the likelihood of injuries. Simple stretches like toe flexes and Achilles tendon stretches can improve muscle control, increase flexibility, and support the intricate structures of the feet. For example, toe stretches help in preventing issues such as bunions and hammer toes, while Achilles stretches target the tendon to alleviate tension and prevent strain. These exercises are beneficial for anyone, from athletes aiming to prevent injuries to individuals seeking relief from daily foot discomfort. However, it is essential to ensure that these stretches are performed correctly to avoid potential harm. A podiatrist can provide personalized guidance, ensuring that you are using the right techniques tailored to your specific needs. If you have foot pain and would like to find out more about appropriate foot stretches, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How to Stretch Your Feet
Your feet endure a great amount of stress each day from constantly allowing us to move around. It is important to stretch your feet to help prevent them from becoming injured. Your toes may easily deform into unhealthful positions if they are not stretched.
One of the most common reasons for toe deformities are the shoes you may be wearing. Shoes that are too tight may fold and shift the toes out of place. Heeled shoes may also push your toes upward. Forcing your toes into an unnatural position which may cause the muscles to tighten and prevent them from reverting to normal length. Another common reason is improper use of foot muscles. Many people fail to use the muscles in their feet or toes when they walk. Lastly, the positioning of your feet while walking may also cause toe deformities. If you walk with your feet facing outward, your “push-off” phase is on the side of your big toe instead of the bottom of your foot. This may cause the big toe to eventually tighten into a new shifted position.
There are many reasons why stretching your toes may be helpful. One reason is that healthy spacing may aid in avoiding calluses and other injuries that are caused by rubbing. Stretching will also prevent you from developing toes that curl, hammertoes, or bunions.
A great way to stretch your toes is to place them in your hands and bend them all downward; this will help you stretch the top of your foot. Next, you should repeat this process but instead bend them upward enough to feel a nice stretch in the bottom of your foot. You should then try to pull each toe apart from the next and pull any toes that are bent upward until they are back downward.
If you are looking to practice stretching your entire foot, you can try a towel stretch. This is done by sitting on the floor with your legs in front of you. Take a towel and wrap it around your toes. Afterward, pull the towel toward you with your toes and hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds before releasing. Practice this stretch for three sets. Another stretch your feet are towel lifts. This is done by sitting in a chair and trying to pick a towel up from the ground with your toes. Try lifting the towel with your little toes for five sets before switching feet.
If you are an athlete, or exercise often, it is especially important for you to practice stretching your feet. Those who suffer from foot pain caused by poor footwear, plantar fasciitis, or long hours of standing at work may also benefit from foot exercises.
Falls Among the Elderly in Assisted Living Situations
Falls are a significant concern in assisted living facilities, particularly among the elderly. As people age, physical changes like muscle weakness, balance issues, and vision problems increase the likelihood of falls. Additionally, cognitive impairments, such as dementia, can lead to confusion and poor judgment, further raising the risk. Falls are prevalent in this population, often leading to serious physical injuries, such as fractures, and mental effects, like fear of falling, which can reduce mobility and independence. The environment in assisted living facilities, with unfamiliar layouts and communal living spaces, can also contribute to the risk of falls. Factors like wearing improper footwear, clutter, inadequate lighting, and lack of assistive devices play a role as well. If you or a loved one is living in an assisted living facility and have fallen and sustained a foot or ankle injury, or if you want to know more about preventing falls in this environment, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for treatment and counsel.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Falls Prevention
Elderly Americans are very susceptible to falls as they get older. Everyone experiences decreases in flexibility, balance, strength, and the senses as they age. This correlates to some eye-opening statistics. 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. An elderly American is being treated for a fall in an emergency room every 11 seconds. In light of these striking statistics, one can see the importance of taking steps to prevent falls.
Finding an exercise program for the elderly is an excellent way to reduce the likelihood of falls. Look for an exercise program that improves strength and balance. Elderly people who live a more sedentary lifestyle, with little physical activity, are at an increased risk of falling. Wearing well-fitted footwear that provides good foot support and cushion will help prevent falls from poorly fitted shoes. Talking to a podiatrist about your susceptibility to falls and about inspecting your prescriptions will help to avoid any medication that could make falls more likely. Due to a decline in the senses among the elderly, having your eyes and hearing checked is recommended.
Around half of all falls occur in the household. Removing tripping hazards in the home and making it more accommodating to older persons can significantly reduce falls. Some notable household changes include increasing lighting around the house, installing grab bars in the shower and bathroom, and making sure the floor is clear of clutter. Other smart options include installing a shower chair, using rubber-bottomed rugs, and placing railings on both sides of stairwells.
Finally, discuss with a doctor and your family about your fear of falling. This will help to increase awareness among the population on the need for fall prevention. A lack of awareness on the matter, and a downplaying of importance are what increase the risks of falling. Following these tips can help to reduce the risk for yourself and your loved ones.
Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Types and Sensations of Foot Arthritis
Foot arthritis can cause significant discomfort, affecting daily activities. It often feels like persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints of the feet. The three main types of foot arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis involves the degeneration of cartilage, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, resulting in swelling, pain, and deformity. Gout, caused by uric acid crystal deposits, leads to intense pain, particularly in the big toe, and sudden flare-ups. Symptoms across these types include joint stiffness, decreased range of motion, and discomfort during movement. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose foot arthritis, and offer effective relief options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and it can occur at any joint in the body, especially in the foot. It generally effects those who are older, however, it can occur at any age. Although there are many different forms of arthritis, there are three main types that occur in the foot. The three types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
The primary cause of osteoarthritis is aging. As you age, cartilage degenerates around the joints which causes friction and pain. Obesity can cause osteoarthritis through mechanical stress. Injuries that damage joints can increase the probability as well. Finally, a family history of osteoarthritis can also increase chances of having it.
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joint linings and weakens them over a long time. While there is no known cause of rheumatoid arthritis, obesity and smoking can increase your chances of getting it. Women are also more likely to get it than men.
Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in your blood and painful crystals form in your joints. Men are more likely to have gout than women. People who are obese or drink alcohol often are also more likely to develop gout. Furthermore, having diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gastric bypass surgery or a family history of gout may increase your likelihood of developing the condition.
Symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling in the joints. These symptoms can make it harder and more painful to walk. Physical activity can increase pain and discomfort. Furthermore, joint pain can worsen throughout the day for osteoarthritis. Gout attacks generally last several days with the first few being the worst.
Diagnosis of gout includes either a joint fluid test or a blood test. X-ray imaging can detect osteoarthritis but not gout. On the other hand, there is no blood test for osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is difficult to diagnosis. Doctors utilize family and personal medical history, a physical examination, and antibody blood tests to determine if you have rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment varies for the different kinds of arthritis. Anti-inflammatory medication or steroids can help reduce pain from inflammation of the joints. Changing shoe types can help with some symptoms. Wider shoes can help with discomfort from gout and osteoarthritis. High heels should be avoided. Shoes with proper arch support and that take pressure off the ball of the foot can help with rheumatoid arthritis. Drinking lots of water can also help rid uric acid from the blood. Losing weight, improving your diet, and limiting alcohol and smoking can also help prevent or lessen the symptoms of arthritis.
If you are having trouble walking or pain in your feet, see a podiatrist to check if you have arthritis.
Facts About Managing Gout
Managing gout attacks involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments to reduce uric acid levels and prevent flare-ups. Gout, once known as a disease of kings due to its association with rich foods and alcohol, is now widespread, affecting over eight million US adults. The rise in cases is also linked to obesity and high blood pressure. Gout is caused by uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain, redness and swelling, commonly in the big toe. Prevention strategies include losing weight, avoiding alcohol and high-purine foods like red meat and seafood, and incorporating low-fat dairy into your diet. Medications to lower uric acid levels are often necessary and regular use of them can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. These measures can improve the quality of life and prevent long-term joint damage. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing it effectively.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
