Items filtered by date: October 2023

As we journey through life, our bodies undergo a multitude of changes, and our feet are no exception. The feet of the elderly have unique characteristics that reflect the wear and tear of a lifetime. One of the most noticeable features is the gradual flattening of the arches, causing a broader, flatter foot shape. This can result in a greater risk of instability and falls. Skin changes are also common, with thinning skin that is more susceptible to injury and slower healing. Additionally, years of weight-bearing can lead to conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis, which may cause pain and reduced mobility. Toenails may thicken, and the risk of fungal infections or ingrown nails increases. Circulation issues, often linked to diabetes or other medical conditions, can further complicate matters. Despite these changes, elderly feet are resilient, and with proper care, they can continue to support a fulfilling, active life. Understanding the characteristics of elderly feet is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. If you would like information about proper foot care for elderly people, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

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 ABC Podiatry. 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 our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot massage is a practice that offers numerous benefits and is something that can be incorporated into a good foot care routine. Our feet work tirelessly, supporting us daily, and deserve regular pampering. Foot massages can induce profound calmness and psychological well-being. These massages promote overall foot health by stimulating muscles, enhancing circulation, reducing stiffness, and detecting issues like blisters, bunions, corns, and toenail problems. For heel pain, especially in plantar fasciitis cases, foot massages provide immediate relief, beneficial for flat-footed individuals. Improved circulation, critical for diabetics, is another advantage. Additionally, they expedite injury recovery and reduce the risk of future ones when combined with strengthening exercises. If you have foot pain or would like to learn more about therapies like foot massage and good foot care practices, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide treatment and information you are seeking.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a nerve condition in the feet, often causing discomfort and pain. The primary symptom is a sharp or burning pain typically felt between the third and fourth toes, but it can also extend to the ball of the foot. Individuals with Morton's neuroma may describe a sensation of having a pebble or lump inside their shoe. Additionally, many people experience numbness, tingling, or a feeling akin to standing on a fold in their sock. Pain tends to worsen with walking, wearing tight shoes, or putting pressure on the affected area. People may feel relief by removing their shoes or massaging their foot. These symptoms can be intermittent or chronic, affecting daily activities and quality of life. Recognizing these signs is essential for early intervention and appropriate management of Morton's neuroma. If you suspect you may have this condition, it is suggested that you seek medical advice from a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the entire sole of the foot makes contact with the ground. Generally harmless, flat feet are common in children until they develop an arch at about age 6. To check for flat feet, observe the inner part of the foot while standing. If it is flat on the floor, you have flat feet. While usually not problematic, some may experience pain, stiffness, or wear on their shoes. Treatments often include wearing supportive shoes, insoles, stretches, and painkillers but rarely require surgery. Causes can vary, from genetic predisposition to conditions affecting muscles and nerves. If you experience foot pain, stiffness, or balance issues, even if the condition is only in one foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment options for relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Heel pain in children should never be casually dismissed, as it could be a potential sign of a condition known as Sever's disease. It is common among active youngsters and adolescents, especially those involved in sports. Sever's disease, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, involves the growth plate within the heel bone and typically emerges in children aged between 8 and 15 years old. Repeated stress placed on the heel due to activities such as running, jumping, and participation in various sports can trigger this ailment. It is characterized by irritation and inflammation in the heel that results in pain. If your child experiences such pain during or after physical activities, or if you observe them limping or favoring tiptoe walking, it may indicate Sever’s disease. Swelling and tenderness in the heel area may also accompany these symptoms. Treatment involves a combination of rest, gentle stretching exercises, and, in some cases, the use of orthotics or specialized shoe inserts. Ignoring heel pain in children can lead to more severe complications or long-term discomfort. For an evaluation, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.