As we age, our bodies undergo numerous changes, and our feet are no exception. For many older adults, foot problems are an increasingly common and often painful issue that can significantly impact quality of life. These ailments can make simple tasks like walking or standing for extended periods a challenging and uncomfortable experience. Fortunately, the field of podiatry offers a wealth of knowledge and solutions to address these concerns.

Whether you're dealing with persistent discomfort or simply want to take proactive steps to protect your foot health, understanding these issues and their solutions can help you step confidently through your golden years. 

Read on to discover the most common foot complications that older adults face and how a visit to Huntington Park’s top-rated podiatrist can help you put your best foot forward.

Six Most Common Foot Issues For Aging Individuals

Podiatrists play an important role in helping elderly individuals maintain mobility and independence. From custom orthotics and specialized footwear recommendations to minimally-invasive interventions, podiatrists offer a range of tools to address the unique needs of older patients — and help alleviate pain, improve foot function, and enhance overall comfort. Below are six of the most common ways a podiatrist helps elderly patients stay comfortable and remain as independent as possible: 

1. Bunions, Corns, and Calluses 

Bunions, corns, and calluses are common foot deformities that cause significant discomfort in older adults. Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, while corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop when friction or pressure occurs in one area of the foot for too long. Podiatrists offer fast relief through various treatments, including custom-made orthotics and, in severe cases, surgical intervention.

2. Diabetic-Related Foot Problems

Diabetes can lead to serious foot complications, including nerve damage and poor circulation. Podiatrists play a crucial role in diabetic foot care by offering regular check-ups, wound care, and education on proper foot hygiene. They also provide specialized diabetic footwear to prevent foot ulcers and other complications.

3. Gout 

Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the big toe, causing intense pain and swelling. This condition is more common among the aging population. This is usually because of the use of certain medications, including: 

  • Diuretics in patients with hypertension or congestive cardiac failure
  • Medications for renal insufficiency
  • Prophylactic low-dose aspirin treatments

Podiatrists can help manage gout symptoms through medication, dietary recommendations, and footwear modifications. They also educate patients on lifestyle changes that can reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks.

4. Arthritis 

Arthritis in the feet and ankles can significantly impact mobility in older adults. Podiatrists offer various treatments to manage arthritis pain, including physical therapy, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. They can also recommend specialized footwear or braces to support arthritic joints and improve comfort.

5. Neuropathy 

Peripheral neuropathy, often associated with diabetes, can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet. Podiatrists help manage neuropathy symptoms through medication, physical therapy, and proper foot care education. They can also provide regular foot examinations to detect any early signs of complications — effectively preventing issues that could cause irreversible damage to the nerves of the feet.

6. Foot Pain and Reduced Flexibility of the Ankle

As we age, general foot pain and reduced flexibility become more common. Podiatrists can address these issues through various methods, including stretching exercises, physical therapy, and custom orthotic inserts for foot pain relief. They can also recommend appropriate footwear and guide on maintaining foot health to improve overall comfort and mobility.

Where to Find the Best Podiatrist for Elderly Foot Care in Huntington Park, CA

As we age, our feet require extra attention and care to maintain mobility and quality of life. This is especially crucial for older adults who have other health conditions that increase their risk of foot problems, like diabetes. Regular visits to a podiatrist who understands the unique impact of elderly foot conditions will help you avoid serious issues that impact your independence and overall well-being. Dr. Ebram Abdelmalak and his dedicated team at La Clínica de los Pies understand the unique challenges of aging feet. We offer comprehensive geriatric foot care services designed to address a wide range of issues common in elderly patients. 

By using state-of-the-art techniques in a comfortable clinical setting, Dr. Abdelmalak and his team prioritize patient comfort while treating conditions such as arthritis, diabetic foot complications, balance issues, and reduced flexibility. We aim to help older adults.

Ready to get comprehensive elderly foot care that helps you maintain your foot health, alleviates pain, and preserves your ability to stay healthy, active, and independent for years to come from the highest-rated podiatrist in Huntington Park?