What Are Common Foot Problems in Older Adults?

One of the most common concerns we address is arthritis, which can manifest as pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints of the feet. This condition can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

Bunions are another prevalent issue among our senior patients. These bony protrusions at the base of the big toe can be painful and make it difficult to find comfortable footwear.

Corns and calluses are frequent concerns we treat, as these thickened layers of skin can become painful if not managed properly. We provide comprehensive care to reduce friction and pressure, ensuring our patients maintain comfortable and healthy feet.

Heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis, is another condition we commonly see. This inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes can result in significant discomfort.

Nail problems, including fungal infections and ingrown toenails, are also widespread among older adults. Our practice offers advanced solutions to treat these issues effectively, even for those with reduced mobility or circulation problems.

For seniors with diabetes, we emphasize the importance of preventing diabetic foot complications. Our specialists are adept at managing high-risk conditions to prevent ulcers and infections, ensuring our patients maintain optimal foot health.

Lastly, we recognize that reduced circulation and neuropathy can pose serious risks for seniors. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we provide diligent monitoring and preventive care to help detect injuries or infections early, avoiding more serious complications.

As experts in podiatric care, we recognize that arthritis is a common source of foot pain among seniors. Our team provides comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to manage arthritis-related inflammation and stiffness in the numerous joints of the feet, helping you maintain mobility and reduce pain.

Another concern we frequently address is the thinning of the natural padding on the soles of the feet. This condition, often linked to aging, can result in increased pressure and discomfort. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we offer solutions such as custom orthotics and supportive footwear to alleviate pressure and enhance comfort while walking or standing.

We also specialize in treating conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, and hammertoes, which tend to increase with age due to factors like ill-fitting shoes or genetic predispositions.

Understanding the role of circulatory issues in foot discomfort we work closely with patients experiencing diabetes or peripheral artery disease. Our specialist provides comprehensive diabetic and “at risk” foot care to prevent further complications and manage symptoms.

Recognizing that lifestyle factors and previous injuries can contribute to foot problems, our practice emphasizes preventive care. We advise on maintaining a healthy weight, selecting appropriate footwear, and engaging in suitable physical activities.

As you age, natural wear and tear on your feet can lead to issues due to changes in skin, circulation, nerves, and bone structure. Our practice focuses on comprehensive care to manage these changes. For instance, we offer advanced treatments to address thinning skin that may lose elasticity, which can make it more prone to injuries and longer healing times. Our skincare advice and treatments aim to combat the effects of reduced natural oil production, preventing dry, cracked skin and minimizing infection risks.

Circulatory health is another area of concern. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we provide thorough assessments for conditions like peripheral artery disease, which can result from decreased blood flow. Our personalized plans include strategies to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of complications.

We also recognize the impact of aging on nerve function, which can lead to peripheral neuropathy. Our specialists are adept at diagnosing and managing neuropathy symptoms and help prevent unnoticed injuries that could escalate if left untreated.

For those experiencing bone and joint issues such as osteoarthritis, our practice offers targeted treatments to alleviate pain and improve mobility. We address changes in the arches of the feet and provide solutions to correct gait abnormalities. Our expertise extends to managing muscle and tendon weaknesses that contribute to balance issues and fall risks.

Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates is also equipped to treat common age-related foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis. Our goal is to enhance your mobility and overall quality of life through individualized treatment plans.

Maintaining foot health as you age involves regular exams, proper footwear, and prompt attention to any concerns. We emphasize the importance of exercise, a balanced diet, and good foot hygiene. Our proactive care approach is designed to help you maintain independence and a high quality of life.

For seniors, open sores or wounds that do not heal quickly require immediate evaluation, particularly for those with diabetes, to prevent complications such as infections or ulcers. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we offer specialized care to manage these risks effectively.

Additionally, any noticeable changes in the skin or nails, such as thickening, discoloration, or ingrown toenails, should be assessed by our healthcare professionals to rule out fungal infections or other dermatological conditions. Numbness or tingling sensations in the feet can be symptoms of neuropathy or circulatory problems, and our experts are equipped to diagnose and manage these issues.

If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty walking, balance issues, or frequent falls, these could be related to foot problems or other medical conditions impacting mobility. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluations to address these concerns and improve quality of life.

Regular foot examinations by a podiatrist are crucial for the early detection and management of potential foot problems. At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we encourage seniors to prioritize their foot health and seek medical advice for any abnormal changes, ensuring overall health and mobility are maintained. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Walnut Creek CA, and Brentwood CA. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Pittsburg CA, Antioch CA, Alamo CA, Danville CA, and Oakley CA.