Aging comes with a lot of changes. From your hair down to your feet, you will notice some changes as you reach middle age and then enter your senior years. Unfortunately, changes to your feet can cause pain and mobility limitations.
In this article, we are going to discuss the impact of aging on foot health and some of the issues that come with age. We will also share with you some tips on how you can cope with foot issues in aging and where you can go in Dover, New Jersey, for top-notch podiatry care.
Changes in Foot Structure and Function
With aging, our feet naturally experience changes in structure and function. These changes include:
Loss of Fat Pad
The natural cushioning in our feet, known as the fat pad, tends to thin over time. Thin heel pads diminish shock absorption and can result in discomfort while walking or standing for long periods.
Decreased Flexibility
Ligaments and tendons in the feet lose elasticity, leading to reduced flexibility. In addition, loss of water content can also lead to stiffness in the feet and toes. When combined, the loss of flexibility and stiffness can affect balance and range of motion.
Weakening Muscles
The muscles that support the feet may weaken, leading to instability and an increased risk of falls.
Bone Density Loss
Age-related bone density loss can affect the bones in the feet, making them more susceptible to fractures and stress injuries.
Change in Foot Size
It may come as a surprise to you, but your feet can grow longer with age. When the arches of your feet flatten, they can make your feet longer. In addition to length, your feet can also grow wider with the loosening of the tissues that comes with age. As a result, your shoe size may get bigger.
Common Foot Issues in Aging
Several foot issues are prevalent among the aging population. Here are some of the most common foot issues that become more common with age:
- Arthritis – Osteoarthritis can affect the joints in the feet and the ankles. It is a type of wear-and-tear arthritis that is a result of years of being in use.
- Skin Changes – Skin can become dry with age. As a result, it can lead to cracked heels. In addition, toenails can also change and become thicker with age, making them difficult to maintain.
- Corns and Calluses – These are thickened areas of skin on the feet and toes caused by friction. The dryness and thinning of the skin with age can make one susceptible to corns and calluses.
- Deformity – Changes in the structure of the bones in the feet include bunions and hammertoes, which can be due to wearing shoes with not enough space for the toes.
- Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, can cause heel pain. It becomes more common with age as the plantar fascia loses elasticity.
- Foot Ulcers – Diabetes can become a problem with age. Poor circulation in the feet leads to slow wound healing, which can result in foot ulcers.
Coping with Foot Issues in Aging
Quality foot care can make a big difference in foot health. We cannot prevent aging, but we can try to keep our feet as healthy as possible. Below are some useful tips for coping with common age-related foot issues:
1. Take Good Care of Your Feet
Practice good foot hygiene by washing your feet daily and keeping them moisturized. Trim toenails carefully and inspect your feet daily for any changes.
2. Rethink Your Footwear
Choose shoes that provide adequate support and are comfortable. You may need a wider toe-box to prevent friction-related foot issues, such as corns, bunions, and hammertoes.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight puts additional stress on the feet. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the likelihood of foot problems and improve overall foot health.
4. Stay Active
It is always good to remain active even in your senior years. However, try to mix up activities to prevent overuse of certain foot structures. Swimming and yoga put less strain on your feet. Stretch your feet regularly to maintain strength and flexibility.
5. Seek Professional Care
Consult a doctor for routine foot check-ups, especially if you experience difficulties with your feet. If you have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, make sure to see your foot and ankle doctor regularly.
6. Use Assistive Devices
Consider using assistive devices like orthotic inserts and arch supports for added support in your shoes. Custom orthotics, which are made just for you, can address a range of underlying issues.
Foot and Ankle Treatments in Dover, NJ
If you want to take your foot health to another level, consult with our orthopedic surgeons at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey. We can provide comprehensive care for your feet and ankles, and expertly address any issues that may come with age.
To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (973) 989-0888 or use our online request form. Our friendly team of experts will make your foot health a top priority.
