The Importance Of Podiatrist Care For Senior Citizens

Our feet frequently suffer the most from years of use and abuse as we become older. Maintaining foot health as one ages is crucial for preserving mobility, independence, and general well-being. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, are essential in treating common foot ailments that might develop in older persons, preventing more serious health problems and enhancing quality of life.

Looking After Elderly Feet

The feet are vital for walking, balance, and mobility because they bear the body's weight. Age-related changes in bone density, muscle mass, and blood flow can result in foot issues that limit a senior's range of motion and independence.

Foot problems can be made worse by illnesses including diabetes, arthritis, and poor circulation, which are common among older persons. Ignoring foot issues can have significant consequences, such as decreased quality of life, infections, and falls. However, if you happen to live in or around Sydney, it would be ideal for the best podiatrist Sydney to avoid such problems and ensure the elderly maintain their health and level of activity.

To find any possible issues early, your podiatrists will do comprehensive foot exams. They examine the patient for abnormalities, skin disorders, nail problems, and circulation difficulties. Particularly in elderly people with diabetes or impaired circulation, early identification of foot issues can avert more severe consequences. Foot issues can greatly impair balance, raising the possibility of falls, a significant source of injuries among the elderly. Podiatrists evaluate how well the feet function, suggest appropriate footwear, and treat ailments that could aggravate balance problems.

Besides, podiatrists assist seniors in maintaining their independence and level of activity by identifying foot issues early on and treating them appropriately. To walk, exercise, and carry out daily tasks painlessly, healthy feet are necessary. Seniors who get regular podiatric care have a better chance of staying in mobility and living longer.

1. Foot Pain

Foot discomfort can be caused by various disorders, including broken bones, heel spurs, and bunions. Issues may arise in any area of the foot. For instance, poorly fitted shoes are a common source of foot pain in the elderly. Seniors who suffer from foot discomfort are more prone to have other health issues in other body areas. A podiatrist can examine the foot to identify painful injuries and provide appropriate care.

2. Foot Care for Diabetes

Due to their increased susceptibility to harmful foot diseases, seniors with diabetes should see a podiatrist at least once a year. For instance, diabetes can harm nerve endings, which increases the risk of even minor foot injuries.

3. Issues with Toenails

While toenail fungus and ingrown toenails are widespread conditions affecting people of all ages, elderly persons are primarily affected. A tiny white spot on the toenail is the initial sign of toenail fungus. It gradually causes the nail to thicken, turn discolored, or collapse at the margins.

When a nail corner penetrates the edge of the toes, it becomes an ingrown toenail. Pain, redness, and inflammation may result from it. An ingrown nail may be the source of an infection if left untreated. An ingrown nail can occur in any nail; however, it usually affects the big toe. Ingrown nails are primarily caused by wearing tight shoes and poor toenail clipping. If an infection has developed in the ingrown nail, a specialist is required.

4. Athlete’s Foot

The term "athlete's foot" describes a fungal infection that results in skin peeling, blistering, itching, and cracking. Since the area between the toes is the most susceptible to fungal development, it also affects that skin area. The fungus can spread through barefoot areas like showers, pools, and changing rooms. Seniors should be especially cautious when selecting shoes to avoid an athlete's foot and wait at least 24 hours for a pair to dry before reusing them.

5. Foot Issues - Proliferations

Your feet may be affected by various growths or issues, such as neuromas, bunions, corns, warts, and blisters. Fluid-filled pockets of skin that form due to rubbing or friction are called blisters. A deformity brought on by a misaligned joint is known as a bunion. Since these foot issues are increasingly prevalent as people age, seniors should see a podiatrist for advice on appropriate care and preventative measures.

When Should I Visit a Doctor?

It's critical to get medical assistance if you or a loved one has any of the following foot or ankle symptoms:

Pain
A crooked or reddish color
Increasing size
A feeling of heat or intensity
Any recent bumps or growths, whether subcutaneous or surface

Even though most foot ailments are not life-threatening, see a podiatrist before attempting self-care solutions. In trying to self-diagnose or utilize over-the-counter medications, you run the risk of aggravating a minor condition without first seeing a doctor.

What Distinguishes a Podiatrist from an Orthopedist?

Despite being two separate medical professions, podiatrists and orthopedists regularly work together to provide patient care.

A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in treating lower limb ailments.

You should consult an orthopedist if you have a disease or injury affecting your musculoskeletal system, which comprises your bones, muscles, joints, and soft tissues. Orthopedists are trained surgeons who can also offer nonsurgical treatments like prescription drugs or physical therapy.

The type of provider you see will depend on your injury, issue, or state. Podiatrists and orthopedists are available for consultation.

In the End!

Your feet are under a lot of stress. By turning 50, you will have driven 75,000 miles on them. A complex system of bones, tendons, and ligaments in your feet must work together perfectly to walk.