Phoenix, with its vibrant community and endless sunshine, is a fantastic place to stay active at all ages! Those countless walks exploring local parks and hikes through stunning scenery down the canal can also put a lot of stress on your feet if they’re not protected. That's why knowledge about foot care is essential for Phoenix seniors who want to maintain an active lifestyle.
This blog post will delve into these prevalent foot problems and explore podiatric solutions that we recommend to our patients, on a case-to-case basis, to get them back on their feet and pain-free. This blog will also guide you through some essential foot care tips to keep you moving and enjoying all that Phoenix has to offer.
Understanding Common Foot Ailments:
- Bunions: Bony protrusions that form at the end of the long bone that meets the big toe, called the 1st metatarsal. Bunions cause pain, redness, and difficulty fitting into shoes.
- Hammertoes: When the middle joint of a toe bends abnormally, resembling a hammer (like the hammers in the key for a piano), this is hammertoe. It can lead to pain, corns, and calluses because the bumpy area is a source of high friction and pressure.
- Corns: These are hard, sometimes painful areas of skin that develop due to friction and pressure. They commonly appear on the tops and sides of toes and have an involuted core to them, which normally needs to be removed in order to resolve the problem.
Podiatric Relief for Common Foot Ailments:
The good news is that there are effective podiatric treatments available to address these foot problems and get you back to exploring Phoenix pain-free:
- Conservative Measures: Here at Arya Foot & Ankle, we recommend padding, orthotics, or wider shoes specifically designed to alleviate pressure and discomfort. Specific recommendations and treatments to lessen the pressure are case by case for our patients and often help fix the problem on the spot.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like cutting away a lesion and treating with acid or injections can effectively reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgery: For severe bunions or hammertoes that significantly impact your daily activities, surgery may be an option. We can discuss the risks and benefits of surgery to determine if it's the right course of action for you. Dr. Arya specializes in non-surgical management of foot & ankle issues, so she will get you referred to a trusted surgical specialist!
With that being said, we want to equip you with essential tips to prevent injuries and keep you moving confidently:
Make Home a Safe Haven:
Make your home a safe haven to prevent falls! Declutter walkways, remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords, and improve lighting in key areas like hallways, stairs, and bathrooms. For extra security in bathrooms, install grab bars and non-slip mats. Consider handrails on stairs and raising your toilet seat for easier use. These steps will help you maintain independence and stay safe at home.
Build Strength and Balance:
Regular exercise is a powerful tool for preventing falls and maintaining overall well-being. Activities like walking, swimming, or tai chi build muscle strength, improve flexibility, and most importantly, enhance your balance. This reduces your risk of stumbles and falls. To further improve balance, incorporate specific exercises like standing on one leg. Gradually increase difficulty as you get stronger for long-term fall prevention and an active lifestyle.
Take Charge of Your Foot Health:
By being proactive with foot care, you can minimize your risk of developing these common podiatric problems. Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy:
- Invest in properly fitting shoes with good arch support and adequate cushioning.
- Make foot care a part of your daily routine. Wash your feet with lukewarm water and mild soap, paying special attention to the areas between your toes. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections. Moisturize your feet daily to keep the skin supple and prevent cracking. However, avoid applying moisturizer between the toes.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet.
- Incorporate daily foot exercises into your routine to improve flexibility and circulation.
- Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of problems. Schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist, a foot and ankle specialist. These visits are crucial for catching common foot problems associated with aging. Visit our website at Arya Foot & Ankle to learn more and schedule an appointment!
By following these essential foot care tips, Phoenix seniors can keep their feet healthy and continue exploring the city's many offerings for years to come. Remember, taking care of your feet is an investment in your overall well-being and active lifestyle.
Author
Dr. Shylaja Arya
Dr. Arya is the owner of Arya Foot & Ankle, a podiatry practice that serves the greater Phoenix area with same day, Saturday, and lunch time appointments. She is a level 500 yoga instructor, tennis player, dog mom and shoe lover!
