Foot health can signal severe medical problems. Why? Because foot health defines basic health, and conditions like arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can initially manifest in foot health.
Development of conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease may be evidenced in foot health and can speed up as one ages. Peripheral neuropathy, associated with diabetes, causes loss of sensation and can adversely affect walking, making balance and falling a concern. Also, circulatory problems can result if an injury is not healing properly due to an insufficient blood supply.
Mobility –is an essential element to independence. In order to have a higher quality of life, an individual should have the ability to move about from one place to another. However, if foot problems exist, it can make it problematic, especially for seniors, to carry out everyday tasks and social activities.
Researchers have found that impairment of the lower extremities can limit performance in the elderly. Foot ailments can also cause knee, hip and lower back pain, which can further lead to diminished movement and a decreased quality of life.
Aging Feet Symptoms:
Dry, scaly skin
Brittle nails
Burning/tingling sensations
Cold
Numbness
Diabetes
Discoloration
High blood pressure
Poor circulation of blood
Thinning of blood
Foot care is vital for:
Elderly citizens
Diabetic patients
Individuals with poor blood circulation
Individuals who are prescribed to medication that causes thinning of blood
Aging Feet Treatment Options Katy TX
Home Treatment:
As one gets older, changes like thinning of fat pads protecting the feet, thinning of skin, and weakening of bones becomes more apparent. The chance for stress fractures occurring in the bones of the feet also increases, especially in osteoporosis patients. However, wearing walking or athletic shoes for protection is the best thing a senior citizen can do to reduce the risk of injuries and pain.
Examining your feet regularly to detect the appearance of any sores or bumps is important. If any changes like increased pain, swelling, or rashes are detected, it is advised to call our office to get medical treatment by one of our podiatrists.
Office Treatment:
As we age, dryness, numbness and discoloration of skin and nails occur, and the nails become brittle. Podiatrists can determine if these signs may be associated with systematic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory diseases. Ignorance regarding these symptoms and failure to receive professional medical care for these can result in severe consequences for patients, especially the elderly.
Foot care is very important. Practicing ongoing foot care can provide many advantages:
