Senior feet require special attention as changes in circulation, skin health, and mobility can make them more vulnerable to discomfort and injury. Regular care includes trimming toenails carefully to prevent ingrown nails, keeping the skin clean and moisturized, and wearing clean cotton socks to reduce irritation and support healthy airflow. Wearing supportive footwear is also essential for balance and stability. A podiatrist can provide routine foot examinations, manage common concerns such as corns, calluses, and fungal infections, and offer guidance that promotes safety and comfort. Taking proactive steps can improve mobility and overall well-being. If you or a loved one needs help caring for senior feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and offer effective elderly foot care tips.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Rouder from S.I. Podiatry. 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 Staten Island, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Baxter’s nerve entrapment, also known as entrapment of the inferior calcaneal nerve, occurs when this small nerve on the inner side of the heel becomes compressed or irritated. It often results from repetitive strain, flat feet, overpronation, or tight muscles in the foot and ankle. The condition can cause heel pain that mimics plantar fasciitis, along with burning, tingling, or numbness along the inner heel or arch. A podiatrist can diagnose Baxter’s nerve entrapment through a physical examination and imaging tests, and then create a personalized treatment plan using stretching, orthotics, or other therapies to relieve pressure. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Baxter’s nerve entrapment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Rouder from S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Staten Island, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Toenail fungus affects the nails and surrounding tissue, often beginning as a small white or yellow spot that gradually spreads. Symptoms may include thickened nails, discoloration, brittleness, crumbling edges, or an unpleasant odor. Causes include exposure to fungal organisms in warm and moist environments, such as locker rooms or tight footwear. Risk increases for older adults, people with sweaty feet, those with weakened circulation, and individuals who frequently walk barefoot in public areas. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, provide advanced treatments, trim damaged nails, and offer guidance to prevent future problems. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Rouder of S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Warped or oddly shaped nails
Yellowish nails
Loose/separated nail
Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Staten Island, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
