Ageing Feet

It's not too late to relieve foot pain!
As we get older we tend to experience more foot pain and discomfort because, lets face it, our feet take a good pounding over the years. Think of the number of steps, runs and jumps the average foot takes in a life time, its not surprising that in later life our feet need a little more care and attention.

Unless we pay special attention to our feet as we get older, the foot problems can get worse and make it harder to get around. Too many elderly people become housebound because they haven't looked after their feet properly and this has caused them to become immobile. 

It is never too late to relieve foot pain and heel pain. As long as we understand what problems can occur with ageing feet we can learn how to take care of them so they can take care of us, for longer!
 
Why do my ageing feet hurt?
With ageing feet the skin loses it's elasticity which causes dry skin and thin skin on the feet. Also due to the partial wasting of fatty tissue on the feet, the bones become prominent and are subjected to abnormal pressure and irritation especially on the site of weight bearing. This can cause considerable foot pain and heel pain.

The development of arthritis can also make walking very uncomfortable as the enlarged joints attract excess pressure and friction. This exacerbates the formation of corns and foot calluses which make walking very difficult. If this goes untreated it may even lead to the development of foot ulcers.

Some elderly people also experience circulatory problems which can also complicate matters and therefore healing is impaired and recovery may take even longer. 

Importantly people who neglect care of their feet can develop infections and athletes foot.

Choose the right footwear
Wearing the right footwear is vital for ageing feet and preventing foot pain and heel pain. The footwear must be comfortable and be able to accommodate swollen feet and it is highly recommended to wear rubber soled shoes which can provide a better grip and make walking more secure. You will also find this provides cushioning that makes walking more comfortable. 

Many elderly people spend all day walking around in their slippers and this really should be avoided as it encourages incorrect gait because a shuffling movement is produced. Many elderly people who experience foot pain and heel pain do not realise it is because they don't have the right foot support.

You should wear soft insoles. These insoles provide excellent cushioning and arch support and can help prevent heel pain and sore feet. 

As well as insoles, it is recommended that shoes should have mechanism such as Velcro strapping as this holds the foot in position and secures the foot in the shoe.
 
Top tips for care of ageing feet

• Maintain good foot hygiene. Feet should be washed daily with warm water and soap. It is particularly necessary to rinse well and dry the feet between the toes and sprinkle them with a simple dusting powder to prevent athletes foot. Occasional swabbing with surgical spirit can also help reduce athletes foot and general foot fungi and improve foot hygiene.
• Keep skin clean and moisturised. Gentle foot massage is encouraged to invigorate the circulation and promote muscle tone.
• Change socks and stockings regularly.
• Keep mobile and seek advice whenever you sustain the slightest injury.
• Any foot blister or discoloration should be reported and seen to.
• Wear the correct footwear. Rubber soled shoes are highly recommended to prevent foot pain and heel pain.
• Avoid wearing slippers.
• Wear soft insoles. There are many insoles on the market so if you want some advice on choosing the right insoles you can email the Feetlife Podiatrist who will provide advice on insoles.
• Use Velcro strapping or another mechanism in the shoe which will hold the foot in position and secure the foot in the shoe.
• Rest your feet at regular intervals with legs raised in an elevated position.
• Visit a Chiropodist/ Podiatrist regularly.
• Shop around for quality foot care products such as insoles, bunion aids and padding which can help protect conditions such as foot pain, heel pain, tired feet, corns, calluses, athletes foot and plantar fasciitis.

This information is for guidance only. If you are in any doubt at all, please consult your Doctor or Podiatrist.