As we age, it’s no surprise that our bodies don’t move or work like they used to, especially when it comes to our feet. After all, they have taken you everywhere you’ve needed to go for your entire lifetime! So, all those years of walking, running, dancing, jumping, and living can change your feet. You may lose cushioning, sensitivity or flexibility, or develop bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities. Your toenails may become thickened or brittle, and become susceptible to toenail issues. While there’s no magic wand to return everything to how they were, it’s important to consider the many ways to keep your feet as healthy as they can be as you head into your golden years.
Stay active
When feet and other body parts start to ache or hurt, it’s easy to get into a sedentary lifestyle, but our podiatrists want you to know that it is important to keep moving! Short, manageable activities like grocery shopping, taking short walks, or participating in a senior movement class can help keep your muscles and heart strong, and improve your flexibility and pain. Swimming and tai-chi are great low-impact options for exercise.
Wear proper shoes
As your feet change over the years, it’s important to change your footwear as well to ensure a proper fit. There are many footwear options that give extra support, cushioning, and stability your feet may need. If tying shoelaces is difficult, opt for velcro or straps, and ensure that the material is breathable to minimize risks of infections.
Have a footcare routine
Spending time on your feet becomes a task that becomes increasingly important as you age, especially if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes. Taking the time to look over your feet every day can help a lot in preventing serious complications that can arise from neglected infections or other foot issues. Apply moisturizer on your feet, as you tend to lose natural oils as you age, and protect your feet by wearing socks.
Your footcare routine should also include toenail care. Be sure to keep them trimmed straight across so you can avoid ingrown toenails and toenail infections like athlete’s foot or nail fungus.
See a podiatrist!
Partnering with a podiatrist is an important way to prevent and manage the numerous foot and ankle issues that can affect seniors. An expert in foot and ankle care can direct you the best available foot care methods, treatments, and footwear and ease your foot health concerns.
Premier senior foot care
No matter what your age, our podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Specialists of Central Ohio are here for you! We understand the frustrations that come with foot and ankle problems that our senior patients experience, which is why we prioritize comfort and effective treatment so you can stay healthy on your feet for as long as possible! Our team of dedicated podiatrists are here to provide high-quality care, whether it’s by managing your diabetic foot care, creating custom orthotics to enhance your comfort, or by easing arthritis pain. Don’t let foot pain get in the way of your daily living! Contact us to request an appointment at any of our offices in Columbus, Dublin, Gahanna, Pickerington, Lancaster, and Newark.
