Falls are a common risk among seniors and can lead to serious injuries, including fractures and hospitalization. Foot problems, such as weakness in the ankles, instability in the toes, or wearing improper footwear, significantly increase the likelihood of falls. Falls among seniors can often result from reduced foot strength or balance issues that stem from conditions like arthritis or neuropathy. A podiatrist can play a vital role in preventing falls in this age group by addressing foot-related concerns. This foot doctor can evaluate gait and recommend proper footwear that provides better grip and support. A podiatrist also can treat or manage other conditions that affect stability, such as corns, bunions, or poorly fitted orthotics. Regular checkups can help identify problems early, improve mobility and reduce the risk of falling. Maintaining strong, stable feet and ankles is essential for safety and independence among seniors. If you are a senior at risk of falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot condition where the skin around the heel becomes dry, thickened, and eventually cracks. These cracks can be painful and may lead to infection if left untreated. The primary causes of cracked heels include dry skin, standing for long periods, and wearing open-back shoes that expose the heels to the elements. Other factors like obesity, diabetes, or vitamin deficiencies can also contribute. To avoid cracked heels, it is essential to keep your feet moisturized by regularly applying a rich foot cream. Wearing shoes with proper support that protects the heels from external exposure is also important. Avoiding long periods of standing and using a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead skin can prevent the buildup that leads to cracks. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment remedies, which often include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the heel bone, often caused by the buildup of calcium deposits. This condition is closely related to plantar fasciitis, where inflammation occurs in the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Heel spurs can cause sharp pain, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Osteophytes, the medical term for bone spurs, can develop due to excessive pressure or inflammation in the joints. Exercises for heel spurs aim to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the foot and calf, improving flexibility and reducing tension on the heel. Stretching the Achilles tendon, rolling a frozen water bottle under the foot, and toe stretches can help relieve pain and prevent further damage. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose heel spurs, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

As people age, the feet undergo changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility challenges. Years of wear and tear, in addition to conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. The natural thinning of the fat pads that cushion the feet may increase foot pain when walking and standing. Furthermore, reduced bone density, particularly seen in post-menopausal women, can increase the risk of stress fractures. Joint inflammation and nerve damage, often associated with aging, can also affect balance and increase the likelihood of falls. Poor circulation, common in older adults, can delay healing and make the feet more susceptible to injuries or infections. A podiatrist can assess the type of foot pain you have and recommend custom orthotics, certain medication to relieve pain, or ways to enhance mobility. If you are a senior suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunion removal surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, is a common treatment for severe bunions that cause pain, difficulty walking, or deformity. A bunion occurs when the big toe joint becomes misaligned, causing a bump on the side of the foot. Surgery is typically considered when non-surgical treatments, such as wearing orthotics or changing footwear, do not provide relief. Choosing surgery depends on the severity of the bunion, the level of discomfort, and its impact on daily activities. The procedure itself involves realigning the bones in the toe, removing the bump, and sometimes fusing the joint or cutting bones to correct the alignment. Recovery time varies but often requires several weeks of rest and limited movement. If you have a bunion that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if bunion surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Central Ohio Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Delaware and Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.