Research has shown that approximately one third of people who are 65 years old will have some type of foot pain. The feet can become stiff and achy, which may be a result of becoming more sedentary than in past years. A common foot condition is a bunion, which is generally caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is characterized by a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe, and may cause pain while walking. Additionally, a corn can develop for the same reason, and despite its small size, may cause considerable discomfort. The skin on the heels may become dry, and cracked heels is a condition that is common as the aging process occurs. Severe cracks in the skin are called fissures, and may bleed, if not promptly treated. Having an ingrown toenail can wreak havoc in attempting to complete daily activities, as a result of the pain it can cause. This is defined as the nail growing into the skin, instead of over it, and surgery may be necessary for a complete recovery. If you are in this age group and are experiencing any kind of foot conditions, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can provide you with effective relief options.
If you need your feet checked, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
