It’s important to be aware of what to expect as your feet age along with the rest of your body and to remember that it’s essential to take care of your feet to maintain your overall health. Problems with your feet are often a harbinger of other health problems, so taking care of your feet first is a great way to notice and mitigate these other potential issues.
Problems with your feet that often become more obvious as you age include the following:
Toenail and fungi problems—Toenails thicken and become more brittle as you get older making them harder to trim and increasing the chances of ingrown toenails and fungal infections occurring.
Strained tendons and ligaments—As your tendons and ligaments decrease in strength and flexibility, you may experience arch problems, tendonitis, and muscle sprains and strains.
Various types of arthritis—Inflammation caused by everyday use takes a toll on your feet. Frequently the large joint of the big toe is one of the first to be severely affected, in addition to the ankle joint. Toe deformities including bunions and hammertoes are often exacerbated by arthritis.
Swelling of the feet and ankles—As we age, hormonal changes can cause the feet to become more inflamed. Vascular problems like peripheral artery disease and varicose veins as well as some medications can contribute to this inflammation.
Balance problems—These can often be caused by complications from diabetesand other age-related factors and may lead to falls. Custom made foot orthotics that provide stability and support can help prevent falls by minimizing ankle movements.
Skin conditions—Cancerous skin lesions are more likely to appear on the feet and ankles as we age. Other skin issues that often worsen with age include cracked heels and corns and calluses.
Though we can’t stop the aging process, we can take good care of our feet and slow the process down. Foot and ankle problems can be difficult to diagnose and treat, so it’s important that you have your foot and ankle needs evaluated by a foot care professional. If you are experiencing age-related foot problems, consult with our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844 and schedule an appointment today!