4 Tips for Better Senior Foot Care
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we treat Manhattan patients of all ages, and each stage has its unique concerns. As you age, the risk for specific conditions such as arthritis and peripheral arterial disease increases. There are also some parts of the foot, such as the fat pad on your heel, that naturally deteriorate, making compensatory measures necessary for health and comfort. Below are 4 ways you can be proactive about your feet and ankles' health if you are a senior patient.
Examine your feet regularly. Podiatric problems treated in their early stages are usually easier to take care of and far less likely to become disabling. The best way to spot developing problems is to know your feet! Make it a habit to look your feet over after you shower. Any changes in toe position, the shape of the foot, swelling, bruises, slow-to-heal cuts, or discoloration of skin or nails should be discussed with our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia. Make an appointment at your convenience at our Upper West Side office by calling (212) 877-1002.
Take steps to protect and improve circulation. Good blood flow is essential for mobility and healing. Not smoking and regular exercise are two ways to keep good circulation. You should also avoid tight hose and standing or sitting in one position for long periods.
Protect vulnerable areas. Remember those fat pads? You may need extra padding or a custom orthotic device for your shoes to help reposition your foot or redistribute weight if your foot has a biomechanical or structural issue. It’s important to treat bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities, to slow their progression and avoid corns and calluses from footwear pressure.
Stay current with other medical issues. It may not be obvious but keeping up with all your medical appointments positively affects your feet. Getting annual eye exams, for example, can lower your fall risk. Managing diabetes and heart disease can help prevent wounds and clogged arteries that will harm your lower extremities.
Taking care of your feet will help ensure that you can enjoy an active life doing all the things you love to do for many years to come. For more information about senior foot care, contact us.