Why Foot Care Is Essential for Seniors

The foot is a complex body part. The intricacy and the heavy-duty wear-and-tear they tolerate over the years places a lot of stress and strain on them over the years. Today, Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists is discussing the importance of proper foot care for seniors.

It shouldn’t come as a big surprise that many older adults experience problems with their feet. Here are some of the most common issues older adults experience with their feet.

Bunions. These are painful, bony lumps that grow on the outside of the big toe joint. They typically progress slowly over time, as the pressure on the big toe joint moves the toe inward, in the direction of the second toe. It is often made worse by wearing tight footwear or high heels.

Callouses and corns. These are thickened areas of dead skin that develop to protect sensitive areas and may occur in response to constant rubbing from an improperly-fitting pair of shoes or other type of irritation.

Hammertoes. Hammertoes point upward at the joint, instead of lying flat. They occur when one of the toe muscles weakens and pressure is put on the toe’s joints and tendons, forcing the toe to stick upward.

Physical changes. As we get older, the fat pads located on the bottom of our feet weaken, which can lead to pain with each step as well as diminished support for the arch. Pinched nerves and Achilles tendinitis can also develop as the foot matures.

Arthritis. The foot has 33 joints in total, so osteoarthritis can be the main source of pain and reduced mobility for seniors.

Heel pain. Pain at the back of the foot can be the result of heel spurs, which are bony lumps that grow along the heel bone, or of plantar fasciitis which is the inflammation of the ligament along the bottom of the foot.

Diabetes-related foot problems.  Diabetics experience a higher rate of cardiovascular problems that can result in serious foot problems that can eventually require amputation. For this reason, diabetics need to keep a close eye on their foot health.

Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and other issues. An overgrowth of fungus, that may occur when the feet are frequently damp, can lead to unsightly and painful infections of the toenails and between the toes.

Older adults can still be healthy and active. Keeping their feet healthy will allow them to continue being as active as they want while living with less pain.

If you or someone you love is having any of these issues, contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists to address your concerns. Call our office today at (425) 455-0936 to book your next visit or schedule an appointment online so we can discuss your treatment options.