Geriatric Foot Care

Geriatric Foot Care Q&A

What is geriatric foot care?

Geriatric foot care focuses on protecting foot health and function in seniors. Age-related foot problems are common in the elderly. As your skin becomes drier and the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones in your feet weaken, pain and injuries can develop. Geriatric foot care aims to reduce foot pain and prevent wounds to keep your feet healthy as you age.

Why is geriatric foot care important?

As the American Podiatric Medical Association reports, the average American has walked up to 75,000 miles by the time they reach age 50. This gradual wear-and-tear on the feet increases your risk of injury and damage. At the same time, seniors lose much of the moisturization that once protected their skin and nails.

Compared to younger adults, elderly patients are at an increased risk of complications from:

• Bunions
• Corns and calluses
• Diabetic foot wounds
• Foot ulcers
• Flat feet and fallen arches
• Ingrown toenails
• Toenail fungus

Mobility issues can also develop with age. Dr. Huang works with you to ensure your feet stay healthy and you maintain your mobility as you get older.

Are there different types of geriatric foot care?

Dr. Huang works with you to develop an individualized geriatric foot care plan that addresses your needs. Care tips he may recommend include:

Trimming your nails

Cutting your toenails straight across, without rounding the edges, can reduce your risk of ingrown toenails.

Wearing clean, dry socks

Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Changing your socks regularly can help prevent toenail fungus and preserve your foot health.

Wearing customized orthotics

Aging adults may notice their arches falling over time, which can cause foot pain and diminish their mobility. Customized orthotics are shoe inserts that are made specifically for the unique design of your feet in order to cushion and protect your feet for enhanced stability.

Treating diabetic wounds

If you’re a senior with diabetes, proper care is essential to prevent foot ulcers. These open wounds can fester and become infected without treatment. Dr. Huang can treat your wound through offloading, wrapping, and even tissue debridement. 

Whether you have discolored nails or bunions, Dr. Huang can develop a care plan that addresses your needs.

Call West America Foot and Ankle today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about geriatric foot care.