As people age, changes in strength, balance, vision, and joint health can lead to gait disorders that increase the risk of falls and limit independence. A gait disorder may involve shortened steps, shuffling, unsteadiness, or asymmetrical walking patterns. These issues can stem from arthritis, neurological conditions, foot deformities, or muscle weakness. Pain in the feet or ankles often contributes to altered walking habits that place strain on other parts of the body. Early identification is important, as many gait disorders can be improved with targeted exercises, proper footwear, assistive devices, or custom orthotics. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics and recommend ways to improve stability and comfort. Regular foot exams are especially important for older adults to detect changes before they lead to serious complications. If walking has become more difficult or unsteady, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full assessment and treatment options.
If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
