Foot Care for Seniors

27 May, 2024

Foot Care for Seniors

It's no secret that our bodies change, evolve, and even morph over time. The feet and ankles bear a brunt of our weight, and they are especially in need of care over a lifetime. For many people, foot care is a foreign language. In this brief article brought to you by Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists, we’ll break it down into simple terms.

If you’d rather consult with a licensed podiatrist, then call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists to schedule a meeting or appointment for as soon as possible. We are proud to offer a wide range of foot care, diagnoses, and treatments.

The Aging Foot

Aging brings about several changes in the feet and ankles. On the surface, skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to injuries and infections. A little deeper, the natural cushioning in the feet diminishes, leading to increased pressure on bones and joints. All the way down, we have conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis.

Circulatory issues also become common, which can affect healing and increase the risk of infections and foot ulcers. Meanwhile, reduced nerve function can lead to decreased sensation, making it harder to detect injuries or infections.

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We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care for everyone who walks through our doors. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call or visit one of our locations today.

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Tips for Caring for Aging Feet

Any licensed foot doctor at our clinic can list off countless tips for caring for aging feet, but we’ll keep it short and share half a dozen here. If you’d like to consult with a foot specialist, you are always welcomed to call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists.

Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitted, supportive shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a wide toe box. Avoid high heels and shoes that are too tight or loose.
Regular Inspections: Don’t rely wholly on your nerves. Visually inspect feet daily for cuts, sores, swelling, or any signs of infection. This is particularly important for individuals with diabetes.
Moisturize: Keep the skin on your feet moisturized to prevent dryness and cracking. Use a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer. AVOID applying much between the toes to prevent fungal infections.
Maintain Toenail Health: Trim toenails straight across and file any sharp edges to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have difficulty reaching or seeing your feet, consider professional nail and foot care.
Manage Corns and Calluses: Use a pumice stone to gently remove thickened skin, and avoid using over-the-counter corn and callus removers, which can be harsh on aging skin.
Foot Elevation: Elevate your feet when sitting or laying down to reduce swelling and improve circulation. Simple leg and foot exercises can also help promote blood flow.

How a Licensed Podiatrist Can Help

Podiatrists in New Oxford are doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle disorders. They conduct thorough examinations to identify issues such as arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, and other conditions. Early detection and intervention can prevent minor problems from becoming severe.

At Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists, our foot specialists also create individualized treatment plans that may include physical therapy, orthotics, medications, or surgical interventions tailored to the patient's specific needs.

We also offer diabetic foot care, wound care, and valuable advice on proper foot care. Call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists to schedule a convenient appointment today.