As we age, our circulatory system can become less efficient, which often impacts the furthest points from the heart: our feet and ankles. Circulatory problems can be a real struggle for all ages, so seniors need to take extra care when it comes to their foot health. We at Syracuse Podiatry routinely care for elderly patients with heart problems, which is why we’ll outline some of the most common ones in this blog post.

Common Circulatory Foot Problems in Seniors

Perhaps the most prevalent circulatory issue in seniors’ feet is Peripheral Artery Disease, which occurs when the arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. In the feet, this can cause pain or cramping in the calves or feet due to a lack of circulation. An estimated 12-20% of people 65 or up have PAD.

A similar senior struggle is Chronic Venous Insufficiency, which is when the veins in the legs and feet struggle to return blood to the heart efficiently. The weakened valves can lead to persistent swelling in the ankles and feet, skin discoloration (often reddish-brown), itching, and varicose veins.

Due to both arterial PAD and CVI, seniors are highly susceptible to foot ulcers that heal very slowly or not at all. These wounds are a critical concern as they can lead to severe infections.

Why Cardiovascular Issues Affect Senior Feet

While anyone’s feet can be affected by these circulatory conditions, seniors are particularly vulnerable, as their feet differ from those of younger folks due to:

• Prevalence and Progression: PAD and CVI become more common with age. They also tend to have a higher likelihood of severe complications like ulcers and amputations due to longer exposure to risk factors and slower healing processes.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Seniors often have multiple co-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. These conditions directly exacerbate circulatory problems.
• Reduced Sensation: Many seniors (especially those with diabetes) also have peripheral neuropathy. This reduced sensation means they may not feel the early signs of poor circulation, like coldness or minor injuries, which can escalate problems unwittingly until they become advanced diseases.
• Impact on Mobility: Circulatory foot problems can severely limit a senior’s mobility and increase the risk of falls.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis: Speaking of mobility, the lack of it can cause blood clots, which is a significant risk in seniors who may not have the energy (due to preexisting heart problems) or the stability to stand and walk. A DVT in the leg can cause sudden swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in the foot and ankle (often on just one side).

For advice concerning any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, the expert team at Syracuse Podiatry is here to help guide you. Contact us today so Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin can elevate your foot health and help your feet feel their best.