On Your Feet: Common Foot Problems for Seniors
Did you know that each foot contains 26 bones and 33 joints? Additionally, the feet have more than twice the number of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, making them intricate and highly functional structures. Throughout your lifetime, your feet experience considerable wear and tear as you walk, run, and move over various surfaces and in different postures.
Over the years, the protective layers on your feet, such as the skin and fat pads, tend to thin out. Additionally, you may experience reduced blood flow and sensitivity in your feet. The bones can become more brittle, making them vulnerable to fractures, sprains, blisters, or cuts. Each of these can significantly impact your mobility and comfort. Thus, caring for your feet is vital for maintaining overall health.
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Daily Foot Check
This simple routine can lead to essential health insights. Take the time to inspect your feet daily from all perspectives. A long-handled mirror can aid in checking hard-to-see areas like the sides and soles, or you can ask a family member or caregiver for assistance. Pay attention to any color, texture, or sensation alterations that might suggest health complications. It’s also crucial to check for cuts, sores, bruises, blisters, or swelling.
Keep Your Feet Active
Avoid remaining static for extended periods. Engage in rotating your ankles, stretching your feet, walking about, and elevating your feet to enhance circulation and minimize swelling. Additionally, a gentle foot massage can be beneficial in relieving muscle soreness, reducing edema, and stimulating blood flow.
Regularly Trim Your Nails
To avoid the discomfort and mobility issues caused by ingrown toenails, it’s important to trim your nails regularly. It’s best to cut your nails after bathing or showering, as they are softer and easier to manage. Soaking your feet in warm water for a few minutes beforehand can facilitate easier trimming. Be vigilant for signs like brittleness, thickening, or discoloration in your nails, as these may be symptoms of other health conditions.
Moisturize Regularly
Post-bath is the ideal time to moisturize your feet, taking advantage of the enhanced absorption provided by your open skin pores. Use creams specifically designed to treat dry, cracked, or callused feet, which aid in smoothing and softening rough patches. Keeping your feet moisturized ensures they remain soft and the skin healthy.
Choose Properly Fitting Shoes
While it may be comforting to keep wearing an old favorite pair of shoes, they can lose shape and support over time. Additionally, your foot size can change as you age. It’s important to wear shoes that fit well—snug but not too tight—to avoid discomfort. Ill-fitting shoes that are too loose or too tight can cause your feet to slide or rub, leading to painful blisters or sores.
Ensure your shoes have a firm sole for stability and to shield your feet from sharp objects. Shoes with good traction are also essential to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
Be Proactive about Your Foot Health!
Don’t brush off changes or pain in your feet. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have so that you can receive proper treatment. An in-home caregiver can help you manage daily foot care, such as applying lotion, trimming your nails, and checking for cuts or sores. They can assist with scheduling doctor appointments, providing transportation, and creating a safer home environment. Contact Always Best Care Baton Rouge at +1 225-513-8656 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how you can benefit from in-home care.
