Today I have guest writer Will Bail on the blog again, this time to discuss the foot problems that aging adults often face. I suffered from Plantar Fasciitis several years ago and it was quite painful, but I was able to remedy the situation after seeing the doctor and wearing a special boot on my foot for a few weeks. I'm happy to report that I haven't had a problem with my foot since then, and I'm able to continue with my vigorous Zumba classes!Below, Will outlines the most common foot problems in aging adults, what causes these issues, and the possible treatments. Please welcome him to my site today with lots of comment love!
Common Foot Problems for Aging Adults
There are several types of causes that can lead to chronic foot problems in older adults. Aging, diabetes, and tight footwear are the common causes of most foot problems. The stress of carrying your weight around can put your feet at an increased risk of injury, more than other parts of your body. Here some of the most common foot concerns among older adults, the causes, and the types of treatment.
Athlete's Foot
While athlete's foot is commonly known as a fungal infection on the skin, it commonly appears on feet. It's caused by a fungus that's attracted to dark, moist, and warm environments, such as between the toes or the bottoms of the feet. This is especially the case if the individual is active or exercises a lot. This problem can inflame the skin and cause a scaly, white rash to appear.
It can also lead to burning, itching, peeling, and odor. If it's not taken care of, this infection can spread to other parts of the body. You can prevent athlete's foot by keeping your feet clean and dry at all times. You can do this by changing your socks and shoes regularly. There are also antifungal sprays and creams that can be used to treat athlete's foot. If neither of these over-the-counter options works, then you'll need a prescription-strength aid.
Bunions
Bunions are known as abnormalities that form a severe bump on the large toe area. This causes the toe to turn inward. Women are more likely to get bunions from wearing narrow or tight shoes. This applies pressure to the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP), where the bone of the big toe meets the bone of the foot. Genetics, polio, and rheumatoid arthritis are all risk factors.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses often form on the bony part of the foot. Corns appear on the top and sides of the foot and in between toes. Calluses often appear on the bottom of the feet, especially underneath the balls or heels, or on the sides of the toes. These dead skin cells can be difficult and painful to remove. You may have to wear moleskin or padding around your corns and calluses. Instead of attempting to remove them yourself, you should visit Mod Pod Podiatry for additional care.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes happen when the third or fourth toe is bent or pointed at an awkward angle. Like bunions, hammertoes are caused by wearing tight shoes. Wearing foot pads or inserts can help reposition the toe, but it'll return to its original bent position when removed. Hammertoes cause severe pain and require surgery to correct the issue. Since the toe is bent, corns and calluses can form on it.
Plantar Fasciitis
Many foot doctors have confused heel spurs with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is the biggest reason for heel pain among older adults, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. This painful disorder causes the ligament that supports the foot's arch to become inflamed.
Heel spurs, on the other hand, are the bones that develop once you have plantar fasciitis. It's not the heel spurs that are painful. It's the inflammation that's caused by plantar fasciitis that makes it difficult for some people to walk. Plantar fasciitis can be treated by applying ice to reduce inflammation, resting the feet, and stretching the foot before and after exercise. Comfortable and supportive shoes can also help treat this problem.
Wilbert Bail is a link-builder and web developer at LD SEO Sydney. He has an adventurous mind but seldom travels as he would rather stay home and make the client's business website more visible on the internet. He likes techie stuff but won't buy any gadgets that are above $1000, hence no iPhone.
Yep, I pretty much know at least one person who has had all of these, and some of them seem downright common. Taking care of your feet is so important because it impacts everything else you do. My Mom had surgery on her toes - multiple times - and they still aren't right. If you are going in for surgery, make sure you have a good surgeon and realistic expectations!
ReplyDeleteGood advice! You are so right---if our feet are messed up, it can totally impact our quality of life.
DeleteLooks like everything (except for Athlete's Foot) can be related to choosing poorly fit shoes. An ounce (or is that $ 150) of prevention is better than the cure.
ReplyDeleteIn my case it wasn't the shoes---it was a combo of sudden weight gain and walking five miles daily. It aggravated the muscles and caused the problem.
DeletePlantar fasciitis is rough. I developed it from going barefoot too much. I live in Florida and the hardwood and tile floors were the culprits. Like you, the boot was so helpful. Also, some inserts in my shoes kept the problem at bay. I still stretch every morning.
ReplyDeleteI live in Florida too, so I get what you mean. The inserts are VERY helpful.
DeleteI've had foot pain develop in the last few years. It's not fun. I try to warm up my feet before exercise. I try to get the right shoes although, interestingly, it doesn't make a difference. I'm not overweight but still find my feet stressed after a long day of weight bearing. Great tips here, Marcia. Thanks for sharing these Wilbert. I have to say it. It sucks getting older :P
ReplyDeleteIt's always something, right??
DeleteI see a podiatist every 10-12 weeks, I have a bunion on my right foot caused by genetics. I had plantar fascitis way back in my 30's and damn it was painful
ReplyDeleteIt certainly is. I think it is great that you see your podiatrist so often.
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