It’s Healthy Aging Month: Foot Care Tips for Seniors
From sunrise to sunset, we constantly depend on our feet to get us wherever we want to go. They are the unacknowledged heroes of the body, but over time, changes that are related to age – in addition to normal wear and tear – can take a toll. Because this is Healthy Aging Month, today Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Brandon Holloway of Amarillo Foot Specialists are sharing some foot care tips for seniors.
Seniors should never assume that foot pain should just be tolerated. They can take steps to care for their feet, maintain their independence, and reduce their risk of problems with the following tips.
Our Top Foot Care Tips for Seniors
Purchase proper footwear that conforms to the foot. The foot shouldn’t have to conform to the footwear. While comfort is certainly key, flexibility is also important when choosing footwear. It’s highly recommended that seniors buy shoes that have at least a half-inch gap between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe.
Take regular walks and while doing so, pay special attention to correct posture. This includes keeping the head erect, holding the back straight, and swinging the arms.
Senior feet should be examined frequently by a podiatrist, especially if they have been diagnosed with diabetes.
Cleanse feet thoroughly with soap and water, taking special care to wash between the toes. It’s also crucial that you dry your feet thoroughly to help prevent fungal infections.
Apply lotion after washing/drying your feet to lessen the risk of drying and cracking.
Don’t walk around while barefoot to reduce the risk of getting scrapes and/or cuts.
Maintain the toenails properly by cutting the nail straight across. Avoid trimming the corners to prevent ingrown toenails.
Encourage proper circulation by performing stretches daily, keeping the feet supported, and wiggling your toes after you have been sitting for an extended period of time.
For any chronic foot pain, apply the RICE treatment process which includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation. When you get older, you should get off your feet whenever possible, apply ice on the foot for 20 minutes each hour, wrap it in a bandage, and keep the foot elevated above the knee.
If you are a senior and have questions regarding any changes taking place in your feet, contact the office of Dr. Brandon Holloway and Dr. Mark Thompson of Amarillo Foot Specialists today at (806) 322-3338 to schedule a consultation.