Senior Foot Care

The senior residents in our greater Albany, NY community have done so much for all of us, so we are proud to offer them the best foot care possible. We provide treatment for any foot condition, but we also have tips so you can prevent them. Keep in mind that we are here to help with any facet of senior foot care you may need!

Osteoarthritis

When it comes to conditions that affect seniors, many people are quick to think about arthritis. What they might not be aware of, however, is that there are actually several different forms. The “wear and tear” variety that is often thought of is known as osteoarthritis and stems from a breakdown of the protective cartilage found in joints.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are not exclusive to the elderly demographic by any stretch of imagination, but the body’s ability to fight off infection decreases as we age. Athlete’s foot and fungal nails might seem to be merely cosmetic or annoying problems, but they do pose a risk of becoming internal infections if damage to the affected foot’s skin creates an opening.

Dry Skin

As with other processes, your body’s ability to moisturize its skin diminishes with time. The feet are already at a disadvantage in this regard, since they do not have the oil glands that moisturize the rest of the body. Instead, they rely on sweat, which is less effective. Excessively dry skin leads to cracking and fissures, both of which present opportunities for infection to enter the body. The more immediate concern, however, is that this is a painful situation.

Bunions

If you develop a bony protrusion on the inside of edge of your foot, right where the big toe connects, it is likely a deformity known as a bunion. In this ailment, the bones on either side of the metatarsophalangeal joint—the joint where a toe and foot meet—have become misaligned. The tarsal bone in the toe will begin to drift inwards, so that the big toe points towards the others and the phalangeal bone in the foot may point outwards. The “v-shaped” condition creates the bump that sticks out.

Heel Spurs

As with other defensive mechanisms, your body has one that can create its own problems. When faced with persistent pressure, you may develop calcium deposits that build up on bone tissue and form a bump. Left to their own devices, you will likely be unaware that spurs are even there. If they interact with soft tissue, however—often by pressing against it—a spur can cause inflammation and pain.

Preventative Measures

It is always easier to avoid an issue than have to treat one in the first place. With this being the case, the following tips will help you avoid common foot and ankle problems:

Wear shoes that fit comfortably. Many conditions could be avoided by opting for footwear that fits properly. Make sure that your heel is supported and cradled firmly, but your toes have room to wiggle and are not squished together.

Keep your feet dry… Fungus and bacteria love warm, damp, dark places, which describes a foot in a sock and shoe when it’s wet.

…but not too dry! Excessive dryness causes cracks and fissures that are painful and increase your risk of infection. Moisturize your feet at night and following any shower or bath. Also, keep the temperature down when you bathe – hot water dries out your skin.

Exercise regularly. Regular exercise helps promote circulation and can even be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Consult with us first to evaluate your ability to handle physical activity and create a plan that works best for you!

Senior Foot Care in the Greater Albany, NY Area

No matter what stage of life you might find yourself, you can always receive the effective foot and ankle care you need at Capital District Podiatry. We have offices in both Clifton Park and Troy, NY to better serve our patients from the greater Albany community. Schedule your appointment with us today by calling (518) 273-0053 or using our online form and we will provide the senior foot care you need!