Although issues with your foot health can affect you at any age, an estimated 88% of older people experience foot problems. As the years go by, our feet suffer a lot of wear and tear. It’s important to pay attention to what your feet are telling you. Luckily, there are several steps you can take to minimize the damage your feet suffer.
MOST COMMON FOOT PROBLEMS FOR OLDER ADULTS
- Osteoarthritis
- Corns.
- Bunions.
- Hammertoes.
- Diabetes complications.
- Heel Pain.
- Dry and cracked skin.
STEPS TO TAKE
Foot issues can reduce mobility and lessen the quality of life. It can cause social isolation and harm well-being. There are several things you can do to help maintain foot health and protect your feet against these problems related to aging.
STRETCH
As we age, our joints can become stiff. Skin can lose its elasticity as well. Stretching can help with this. Simple exercises like curling your toes, or using your toes to pick up a marble, can be a big help.
USE INSERTS
Most stores sell shoe inserts that can provide extra cushioning for your feet. Another good option would be custom orthotics. An experienced podiatrist can customize an insert shaped specifically to your unique foot shape to provide cushioning and support exactly where it’s needed most.
MOISTURIZE YOUR FEET
Getting older means our skin can lose its ability to retain moisture. It can cause the skin to dry and crack, making the skin vulnerable to infection by bacteria. Daily applying lotion to dry feet can make sure this doesn’t happen.
DO NOT IGNORE PAIN
It’s easy to think that pain is normal for growing older, but this isn’t necessarily true. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Any time you experience any discomfort, it’s best to contact an experienced professional.
Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York, for more tips or other foot-related issues. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.