5 Common Foot Problems in Women Over 50

25 Jun, 2024

5 Common Foot Problems in Women Over 50

It goes without saying that our feet certainly carry their weight. They are our primary mode of transportation every step of the way. It's no surprise that they wear down over time. Women over 50 can especially feel the burn.

In this brief article brought to you by Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists, we take a look at 5 common foot problems in women over 50. We will also share some effective foot care and treatment options. If you’d rather consult with a licensed podiatrist, then call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists to speak with a member of our team today.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in women over 50. It is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This condition often results in sharp, stabbing pain, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that frequently affects the feet, especially in women over 50. This happens when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. The joints most affected in the feet are those in the toes and the ankles.

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Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe. They happen when the bones in the front part of your foot move out of place, causing the tip of your big toe to pull toward the smaller toes and forcing the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. Bunions can be painful and may lead to difficulty walking.

Neuromas

Neuromas, particularly Morton’s neuroma, are painful conditions involving the thickening of tissue around a nerve leading to your toes. This can cause sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot, as well as numbness or tingling in your toes. Wearing high-heeled or tight shoes can exacerbate this condition, making it particularly common in women who have worn such footwear for many years.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy results from damage to the peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet. In women over 50, this condition can be related to diabetes, but it can also arise from other causes such as autoimmune diseases, infections, or vitamin deficiencies.

Treatment measures for common foot problems

Managing foot problems effectively requires a combination of proper footwear, physical therapy, and sometimes medical interventions.

For conditions like plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis, using supportive footwear with good arch support and cushioned soles is essential. Stretching exercises and physical therapy can help alleviate pain and improve mobility by strengthening the muscles around the affected areas.

For bunions and neuromas, changing to shoes with a wider toe box and lower heels can significantly reduce discomfort. Orthotic devices or custom shoe inserts can offer additional support and alleviate pressure on sensitive areas. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical options may be necessary.

For peripheral neuropathy, we want to focus on addressing the underlying cause and providing symptomatic relief. Medications such as pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, and antidepressants can help manage the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. Proper foot care, including regular inspections, cleaning, and moisturizing, is crucial to prevent infections and further complications.

Consult with a licensed podiatrist today

If you would like to take your questions or concerns to a licensed foot doctor, then call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our team is on standby to take your call or message at any time of the day. You are also welcomed to visit our clinic to see a foot specialist as soon as possible.