Foot Care Tips for the Senior Community

A podiatrist can improve the quality of life for senior citizens by relieving their foot and ankle pain.  There are many factors that could affect the health of your feet. Some are environmental and can be easily fixed. However, there are others that you can’t change that easily and require the specialized help of a podiatrist. Here are some tips for taking care of your feet.

Podiatry Tips that are Simple

1. Clean feet are always healthier feet
   Treat your feet by cleaning them with light soap and also warm water every day. Do not use hot water especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation. Be watchful for dry, cracked spots, and also locate the appropriate shower foot scrubber for you to smooth down hard skin areas such as corns and calluses.  Apply vitamin E for a long-lasting moisturizing effect, and put your socks back on after your feet are entirely dry.
2. Short Toenails are a must
   Soak your feet in warm water prior to cutting your nails, as this softens the nails and also leaves them much easier to trim. Use a good set of nail clippers and cut straight across, cautious of those sharp edges which could become ingrown. Routine nail upkeep is important for comfort, as overgrowth can press against your shoes causing discomfort or various other complications.  If you have poor circulation, diabetes or are on blood thinners, you should only allow your podiatrist to trim your nails.
3. Proper footwear
   First and foremost, make sure that your foot is surrounded by the ideal footwear for you. When buying brand-new footwear, measure your foot for the best fit. People often compromise style for extra comfy shoes and this is not a good idea when choosing a shoe for everyday use.  Avoiding high heels is your best bet. When it concerns your trusted old sets of shoes, inspect the bottoms to make sure they are not too worn and slippery. If they are, have new soles put on your shoes or buy new shoes. Change into your sandals whenever you can. Never walk around indoors barefoot as this can lead to injuries.  People with diabetes should never go barefoot as they may step on something and not feel it ultimately causing a foot sore or infection.

Podiatry Tips that are Not So Easy

1. Dry conditions keep bacteria at bay
   Germs are known to set up shop in wet locations. Your feet are no exception. Keep the locations between the toes clean and completely dry. This will certainly decrease the chance of fungus infecting the insides of any cracked skin and prevent bacterial infections. Warm feet are additionally crucial for blood circulation purposes, so put on a clean set of cotton socks after your feet have been properly dried.
2. Keep your weight down
   Many reported foot problems stem from diet-related issues. If you are overweight, it is difficult for your muscles to keep your balance, and also your entire foot is likely to feel that pressure. Excess weight can, therefore, lead to slips and falls. Luckily, lifestyle changes will benefit virtually every other aspect of your life. Check out our weight loss blog for additional tips on diet and exercise.
3. Painful feet? Check out your diet.
   If you routinely discover yourself experiencing foot pain, your blood levels of potassium, sodium, and magnesium may be decreased. Make sure to see your primary care physician for yearly physicals and blood work.  Also, eat a variety of mineral-rich fruit and vegetables. Remember to exercise your feet, ankle, and legs on a daily basis by extending your legs and pumping your calf muscles while sitting. 

1. Good circulation means happy feet
   Speaking of flow, increase your blood flow by getting up and walking periodically. Don’t cross your legs for any prolonged amount of time. Also, get into the practice of curling your toes as well as turning your ankles for added exercise and blood flow. Other ways to increase blood flow include yoga exercise or swimming?
2. Dr. Cruz can prescribe a mobility device
   If you are having a hard time getting around or are starting to fall more regularly, it may be time to check into using a mobility device. It may be as simple as leaning on a walking cane or another device. Talk with Dr. Cruz about your problems, and depend on his expert advice to make the most effective choice for you.
3. Have your podiatrist look at any wounds
   If you experience ingrown toenails, painful corns or calluses these can turn into wounds or infected areas if not treated. Routinely check your feet for any unusual areas such as stained nails or newly developed marks. 

Brandon and Zephyrhills Podiatrist, Dr. Jairo Cruz is a competent, ethical and caring doctor. 

Author

Marc A Katz DPM Dr. Marc Katz is a podiatrist that previously practiced in South Tampa on Swann Ave with Dr. Jairo Cruz DPM. He works closely with Dr. Cruz to create educational materials to help patients and the community. Dr. Katz is recognized as a leader in the Tampa Podiatry community for over 23 years. Dr. Katz has extensive expertise in all areas of foot and ankle medicine and surgery and is Board-Certified. He was an early adopter and is a leader in Minimally-invasive procedures and Regenerative medicine in the podiatry community. Dr. Katz has had many articles published in podiatry journals discussing his procedures and techniques. In addition, Dr. Katz has advanced training in Functional and Holistic Medicine and Nutrition. He is one of a few podiatrists that has taken advanced courses in Prolotherapy, Neural Prolotherapy and Ozone Therapy. Please enjoy the content and I truly hope that you find great benefit. Dr. Katz can be reached at marckatz61@gmail.com For more information: https://marckatzdpm.com/