By the time you reach the age of 50, experts say, you may have put some 75,000 miles on your feet. Like a car with the same mileage, parts may start to break down and need repair. Your feet are no exception. The fatty padding starts to diminish in the heel and ball of the foot. Without an increase of cushioning in the shoes, this can become increasingly painful. A lifetime of wearing high heels, flip flops or other ill-fitting footwear starts to take a toll as you age. The chances of forming calluses, corns, hammertoes, or bunions increase. Ailments, such as gout, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis are more likely. The onset of diabetes or blood circulation issues are common, causing sores and blisters on the feet to take longer to heal. Foot ulcers can develop, which may lead to further and more serious problems. Your tendons may tighten, causing a decrease in flexibility. At the same time, the ligaments begin to stretch, which can lead to flat feet and an increased risk of ankle sprains. After 50, taking your feet for granted is no longer an option. It is a good idea to make regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor your feet as you move into your senior years.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
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 Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
