As individuals gracefully age, their feet bear the brunt of a lifetime's worth of movement, often leading to various sources of discomfort. Arthritis, a prevalent condition among the elderly, can cause inflammation in the joints, triggering persistent foot pain. The wear and tear on ligaments and tendons over time contribute to conditions like tendonitis, further exacerbating discomfort. Additionally, diminished fat padding on the soles and reduced skin elasticity can result in increased pressure on the feet, leading to pain and vulnerability to injuries. Corns, calluses, and bunions may develop due to years of friction and pressure, causing localized pain. Poor circulation, often associated with aging, can lead to cramping and pain. Understanding these common sources of foot pain in the elderly is pivotal for proactive care. Foot pain in the elderly can compromise daily activities. If this applies to you or someone you may know, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist be consulted for an exam and treatment methods. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Christine Quinn from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel fissures, or cracked skin on the heels, develop when the feet lack adequate moisture. This can lead to the development of painful cracks and dry patches on the outer edge of the heels. While heel fissures are often perceived as a cosmetic concern, they can escalate into more serious health conditions, underscoring the importance of timely treatment. Common causes of heel fissures include wearing open-backed shoes, living in dry climates, walking barefoot, obesity, and having inactive sweat glands. In cases of persistent or severe fissures, seeking professional help from a podiatrist is suggested. Treatment measures can provide a comprehensive approach to alleviate discomfort and expedite the healing process. The danger of heel fissures is particularly important for diabetic people and patients with neuropathy and should not be ignored. If you have developed seriously cracked heels that are bleeding or may have become infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for an exam and treatment. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Christine Quinn from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In the realm of overall health, the often overlooked foundation is our feet. Foot hygiene, a seemingly simple aspect of self-care, plays a critical role in promoting well-being. Our feet, subjected to daily wear and tear, are susceptible to various issues that can impact mobility and comfort. Regular cleansing, including washing and drying thoroughly, prevents the accumulation of bacteria and fungi, reducing the risk of infections such as athlete's foot. Proper nail care, which consists of trimming the nails straight across, aids in preventing ingrown toenails and related complications. Choosing breathable footwear and allowing shoes to air out between wears contributes to a healthier environment for the feet, reducing chances of infection. Regular inspection of the feet for any abnormalities, such as cuts, blisters, or calluses, allows for timely intervention. By prioritizing foot hygiene, we not only prevent discomfort and potential health issues, but also lay the foundation for an active and mobile lifestyle. If you are having problems with your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Christine Quinn from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.