As people age, their feet bear the brunt of a lifetime of activity, an accumulation of wear and tear that can lead to various problems. Women over 50 are particularly prone to foot issues as they age. These are caused by hormonal changes, decreased bone density, and the effects of wearing high heels. The soft tissues in the feet lose elasticity over time, making older adults more susceptible to conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Among the foot problems associated with aging are stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and bunions, flat feet, and osteoarthritis, which can hinder mobility and cause discomfort, are other ailments common among seniors. While simple measures like wearing supportive shoes and engaging in low-impact exercises can alleviate symptoms, persistent foot pain necessitates professional attention from a podiatrist, or a foot and ankle specialist, to prevent further complications. If you are an older adult who is experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis affecting the feet requires diligent attention to maintain overall health and mobility. Foot care for arthritic individuals involves regular inspection for inflammation, keeping feet clean and dry, and wearing supportive footwear with custom orthotic inserts. Management of inflammation and pain through medication and therapy is important to prevent long-term complications like joint deformities and reduced mobility. Particular focus should be given to maintaining foot health to prevent secondary issues. If you have arthritis that is negatively impacting the comfort of your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan, which may include prescribing orthotics and offering guidance on foot care techniques.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell from InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin of the toe, causing irritation, inflammation, and sometimes infection. Home remedies may provide temporary relief from an ingrown toenail, but if pain persists or signs of infection develop, seeking attention from a podiatrist is important. In such cases, prescription medication and surgical intervention may be necessary. Nail avulsion is a minor procedure that involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail, or the entire nail plate, under local anesthesia. Partial nail avulsion allows for regrowth within months, while complete nail avulsion is less common and results in permanent removal. For recurrent cases of ingrown toenails, a matrixectomy may be recommended. This involves removing the nail root to prevent future ingrowth. Various techniques, including chemical, electrosurgical, or surgical methods, are employed based on individual needs. When an infection develops, a podiatrist will prescribe oral antibiotics to clear the bacteria and prevent complications. If you have persistent pain or redness due to an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Kendall Blackwell of InStride Wilson Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wilson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
