At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we know that foot care needs change as you age. This week we’d like to address some foot health care needs that are particularly important for our more senior patients in honor of Older Americans Month.
Work with Your Podiatrist—there are several foot ailments that are more likely to develop as you age, such as arthritis and certain nerve issues. Your feet may also be the first place that systemic disorders such as diabetes or circulatory dysfunction show up. For these reasons, it’s important to maintain a regular schedule of checkups with our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria Foley and Dr. Constance Omelas. This will enable the foot doctor to spot changes in your feet and also help you manage chronic foot issues and keep them from becoming debilitating.
Shoe Sense—good shoes are important at any age but for senior patients, the right shoe can prevent falls and keep foot disorders from worsening. Have your foot professionally measured at a quality shoe store. It is not unusual for your shoe size to increase as you get older. Buy shoes that have good arch and ankle support and a gripping tread on the bottom. Shoes with laces give a better fit than Velcro. For dress shoes, keep heels to no higher than 2 inches. Replace shoes when they become stretched out or damaged.
Develop a Daily Foot Care Regimen—wash your feet every day and dry completely. Check your feet for any changes in skin or nails, cuts, bruises, growths or any other unusual symptoms. Keep toenails trimmed straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown nails. Apply moisturizer or foot powder as needed.
Good Habits for Life—many of the lifestyle choices that are healthy for the rest of your body have a positive impact on your feet too. Don’t smoke—it impedes circulation. Exercise regularly to increase bone strength and maintain range of motion. Keep your weight down because extra pounds put more stress on joints and bones in your lower extremities.
Keeping your feet healthy during your senior years isn’t difficult. To learn more about how to ensure that your feet will enable you to live a long, active life, contact our Long Beach office by calling: (562) 420-9800.
