April 30, 2020

As we age, our bodies are always changing and usually not for the better.

This includes the health and structure of our feet.

The foot is a complicated body part – home to 26 bones and more than 100 muscles, tendons & ligaments. 

After a lifetime of supporting and carrying your weight, many older adults develop foot problems. Among the most common issues older adults may experience with their feet are:

• Arthritis. Because the foot has so many joints – 33 in total – osteoarthritis can be a major source of pain and limited mobility for older adults.
• Diabetes-related foot problems. Changes in your skin texture, vascularity, and nerves of the foot and lower extremity can lead to major foot problems that may eventually require amputation.
• Fungal infections, ingrown toenails and other toenail issues. An overgrowth of      fungus in our bodies, such as may occur when the feet are constantly damp, can lead to painful and unsightly infections of the toenails and between the toes. Toenails can also grow at odd angles, leading to ingrown toenails that can be extremely painful and require surgery to correct. Dry and brittle nails are also more common among older adults, as blood flow to the lower extremities weakens.
• Structural changes. As we age, the fat pads on the bottom of our feet thin, which can      lead to pain with each step as well as less support for the arch. 
• Corns, callouses and dry skin. Corns and callouses are thickened patches of dead skin that form to protect more sensitive areas and may develop in response to constant      rubbing from an ill-fitting pair of shoes or structural changes. They’re often accompanied by dry skin, which can also be painful and lead to cracked skin/fissures that are prone to infection if left untreated.

To AVOID foot problems…………Check your feet daily, keep your feet clean & dry, Visit your PODIATRIST for assistance on regular foot grooming check-ups!

WE HEEL THE SOLE PODIATRY IS HERE TO SERVE YOUR FEET*********