Tuesday, 07 November 2023 00:00

How Aging Can Affect the Feet

Taking good care of your feet as you age is both a matter of comfort and a way for you to stay active and mobile. Your feet are often considered mirrors of your overall health. Any unusual or persistent changes in your feet may be indicative of underlying health conditions, including dry skin, brittle nails, and burning or tingling sensations. For those who have difficulty caring for their feet or lack assistance from family members, regular check-ups with a chiropodist are strongly suggested. Prolonged neglect of foot issues, such as overgrown nails, can lead to infections, and for individuals with diabetes, this poses a higher risk as they age. Infections can potentially lead to more serious illnesses, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper foot care. Aging may bring changes to your feet, but with daily foot care and regular visits to a chiropodist, you can enjoy good foot health and continue to lead an active, mobile, and fulfilling life. For the best care of your feet, or to address any current foot conditions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

  • Dry, cracked skin

  • Calluses and corns

  • Blisters

  • Ingrown toenails

  • Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

  • Fungal infections

  • Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

  • Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

  • Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

  • Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

  • Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

  • Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Elderly Foot Care

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