Aging causes the body to undergo many changes. The feet are no exception to this. As you enter your senior years, you may notice changes in your feet, as well as problems cropping up that you’ve never experienced before.
Foot health is a serious concern. Our feet keep us moving and independent, and maintaining them becomes more important with age. Unfortunately, aging can bring about several common foot issues that need specialized attention and care.
In this article, we will explore some of the most common foot problems in seniors and where to go in Rhode Island and Massachusetts for the highest quality foot and ankle care.
Thickened and Discolored Nails
This becomes very common in older adults due to the decreased blood circulation that comes with aging. As a result, the nails grow slower and may also thicken. In addition to poor circulation, nail disorders and fungal infections can also become more common with age. Both conditions cause nail thickening and yellowing.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the nails grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain and swelling. One reason for this is age-related changes to the nails that make it a challenge to maintain them as before. In addition, the combination of poor eyesight and reaching for the toes can become more difficult for seniors, leading to improper nail trimming techniques.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop due to friction or pressure. Aging can bring about changes in the foot – such as a loss of fat – and your gait pattern, which causes more friction against the shoes. Footwear that worked in younger years may no longer be as comfortable and serve the needs of an older adult.
Bunions
Bunions are bony protrusions that develop at the base of the big toe, causing it to turn toward the other toes. Aging can cause a weakening of the ligaments and tendons in the feet, which can contribute to the development of bunions. Arthritis of the feet can also lead to inflammation that can change the alignment of the toes.
Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation and stiffness in the joints. It can affect the joints in the feet. It may be caused by wear and tear and the gradual breakdown of cartilage over time. A history of foot and ankle injuries can increase the likelihood of a senior developing foot arthritis.
It commonly affects the feet and can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving. To manage arthritis-related foot issues, seniors can try using orthotic inserts or shoe modifications for added support and comfort. Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can also help maintain joint flexibility.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes heel pain, which is a result of the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is located on the underside of the foot. Age-related changes to the plantar fascia – losing elasticity and flexibility – can lead to plantar fasciitis in seniors. In addition, reduced fat pad thickness can also increase stress placed on the plantar fascia.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve damage and is most often diabetes-related. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that becomes more common in older adults, and it can be more challenging to control blood glucose levels with age. Loss of sensation in the feet is a common symptom of peripheral neuropathy, which also carries serious risks. Diabetic foot management is very important to alleviate risks from diabetes-related foot complications.
Foot care should become a priority, as healthy feet can help ensure you remain active in your senior years. Make sure to choose a reputable foot and ankle doctor or podiatrist for specialized care.
Foot and Ankle Specialist in Warwick and Middletown, RI and Dartmouth, MA
The board-certified foot and ankle specialists at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England is highly experienced in the management of age-related foot conditions. We see seniors regularly who need specialized care for their feet and ankles. We treat every type of podiatry issue, from injuries to diabetic foot conditions, and can handle complex cases and severe complications.
At the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England, our podiatrists believe in compassionate, patient-centric care. To schedule an appointment with one of our talented foot and ankle surgeons, call our podiatry office near you or use our online form to schedule your visit.
We have locations in Warwick and Middletown, Rhode Island, as well as Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Our friendly staff members are more than happy to be of assistance to you.
