Items filtered by date: May 2023

The feet are the base of our body.  They carry our weight and get us from place to place. The older one is, the more wear and tear of life will show up on their feet. The feet change as people age, so it is common that foot padding is thinner and does not provide the cushioning of younger years. More pain may be felt in the foot and heel because of this. A senior may be prone to Morton's neuroma, which is a thickening of the nerve between the third and fourth toe on the bottom of the foot. It may feel like walking on a pebble, and it can be painful. Cracked heels is yet another common plague of aging. Mature skin has less oil and is drier. The skin on the feet may harden, crack, and hurt. In severe cases, fissures may develop, and care has to be taken to prevent potential infections. If you are older, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team. This foot care expert can examine your feet regularly, teach you how to prevent foot problems from happening, and treat any that do occur.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

For some seniors that have yet to retire, working in the office can present dangers to the health of their feet. For instance, as a senior gets older, they can become increasingly susceptible to suffering from falls or trips that can lead to foot conditions like fractures. There are certain steps that a senior might consider taking in their office to prevent falls or trips. Specifically, many workers might have extension cords and wires surrounding their desks. This can present a significant tripping hazard, making falls more likely. A senior worker might consider cleaning up the cords to minimize any potential tripping hazards. Additionally, a senior worker could possibly ensure that the floors in their office space are dry. In other words, having liquids on the floor can increase the likelihood of falls. If you are someone that is a senior and is still working in the office, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to learn more about fall prevention and the effect falling can have on the feet.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Excess fluid in the body may result in having swollen feet. The medical term is oedema, which can happen for various reasons. Pregnant women are all too familiar with having swollen ankles, in addition to people who are overweight. Taking specific types of medication may produce swollen feet, such as hormone therapy, antidepressants, or blood pressure pills. An injury that happens to the feet may cause the ankles to swell, in addition to having existing kidney, liver or heart conditions. Mild relief may be found when salty foods are reduced from daily eating, a gentle exercise program is started, and the feet are frequently elevated. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Tending to the health of the feet is critical in helping seniors maintain balance, mobility, and independence for as long as possible. Senior feet need extra care since aging takes its toll on them. As one ages, the feet flatten and become wider. The padding on the foot wears away, and bones and joints are less protected. One foot injury or problem, such as an ingrown toenail, can lead to further health issues in this population. Foot care tips to help seniors maintain the health of their feet include keeping the feet clean, dry, and moisturized, in addition to trimming the nails straight across, and wearing properly fitted footwear. Caregivers can help seniors who cannot take care of their feet on their own to maintain foot health. If you are a senior, or are caring for one, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team. If problems arise, this medical professional can promptly help you to them.

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 Accent Podiatry Associates. 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 offices located in Arlington and Mansfield, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are uncomfortable bony bumps that can develop on the side of the feet. Typically, bunions form on the outside of the foot near the big toe. However, smaller bunions may also develop on the outside of the foot near the pinky toe. When an individual ages, they may become increasingly susceptible to foot conditions, such as bunions. Many senior adults who have bunions often wonder whether  bunion surgery is a suitable option for them. The answer is slightly complicated and dependent on each individual patient. It is important to note that an older individual can undergo a surgery to address their bunions. However, it is equally important to note that several age-related conditions may make bunion surgery less feasible. For example, diabetes, obesity, and weak bone health may increase the risks associated with surgery for bunions. If you are a senior living with bunions and would like to inquire about possible surgical procedures, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist today.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Accent Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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