Podiatry and Aging: Common Problems to Lookout For Later in Life

Our bodies change as we get older. That’s simply an unavoidable part of life.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps (no pun intended) to guard against certain physical ailments that may otherwise develop in your later years. If you know what to expect, and coordinate with medical professionals accordingly, you can limit the degree to which these problems affect your comfort. Making basic lifestyle choices and changes – like getting the right pair of supportive sneakers – can also help.

For example, it’s not uncommon for older people to develop foot problems. The following are specific examples you should be aware of. Luckily, by working with your doctor, giving your feet a rest, and wearing the right footwear, you might be able to prevent them to an extent.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is one of the most common foot issues. In fact, it’s estimated that one in three people will experience it at some point in their lives.

Most people with this condition describe feeling as though they are walking on a marble or pebble. It’s particularly common in older women who tend to wear heels or other ill-fitting shoes routinely. Thus, if you want to limit your odds of developing Morton’s neuroma, consider opting for shoes that are more comfortable.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is very often the culprit when you’re experiencing heel pain. This condition develops when the plantar fascia (the ligament that runs along your sole) becomes irritated due to regular stress. Preventing and treating this condition typically involves resting your feet. Ice can also usually help reduce any pain associated with it.

Ingrown Toenails

It’s worth noting that many of these conditions are not exclusive to people over 50. For example, anyone can experience ingrown toenails.

That said, ingrown toenails are generally more common among older people. Potential causes and contributing factors include being overweight, cutting your toenails too short, and wearing shoes that are too tight. Luckily, these are all factors over which you can exercise at least some degree of control.

Osteoarthritis

There’s a very simple reason many foot problems generally affect older people more often than the young: you use your feet every single day. When you’ve been alive for a few decades, your feet have gone through a lot of wear and tear. This can cause cartilage in your feet to break down. As a result, your bones will rub up against one another. A podiatrist can help you manage your discomfort and make the appropriate lifestyle changes if you’re diagnosed with this condition.

Bunions

This is another problem that often strikes when someone has spent years wearing the wrong shoes. Bunions are lumps that form at the joint where the big toe meets the rest of the foot. Along with affecting your appearance, they can also be painful. In some cases, surgery is necessary, although many people are able to successfully treat bunions by icing them to reduce the pain and switching to more comfortable footwear.

Just keep in mind that none of this is meant to replace professional medical advice. If you suspect you are struggling with a foot condition, contact your doctor. The sooner you act, the better the odds you’ll prevent these issues from affecting your quality of life as you age.