The natural aging process comes with a lot of changes when it comes to your body. This includes your feet as the elasticity and stability of the tendons and ligaments are impacted as you age. This can change the arch height, in addition to the length and width of your feet. Below you will find the most common problems in aging feet to watch out for.
Problems in Aging Feet to Watch Out For
You may notice some aches and pains in your feet as your get older. These may be minor, but they can cause further issues if not taken care of by a podiatrist.
Fat Pad Atrophy:
If you experience pain in the ball of your foot or your heel, it may be due to fat pad atrophy. As you age, the natural wear and tear of life can impact the fat pads on your feet. These fat pads are helpful as they provide cushion as you move around. Without them, it can make walking painful. It’s important to consult with a podiatrist for foot pain treatment in Santa Barbara as there are a variety of options that can effectively treat the issue.
Cracked Heels:
Gone are the days of smooth feet as you get older. Cracked heels are normal as you age due to the maturation of your skin. It produces less elastin and oil as you get older which can result in dry, cracked, and hardened heels. This can cause a lot of pain when you walk. While this can often be taken care of using at-home remedies, you may need help if the issue has been left untreated for too long. Start by using a pumice stone to slough off any dead skin and moisturize daily.
Plantar Fasciitis:
If you have heel pain, plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of it. You are at a higher risk for the condition as you age. If you have high arches or are overweight it can further exacerbate the issue. The long ligament that stretches along the sole of your foot is called the plantar fascia. If you experience heel pain, consider podiatry in Santa Barbra for help as their team can get you on a treatment plan to address the issue.
Ingrown Toenails:
This occurs when the side of your nail grows into your skin. It can cause pain, swelling, and even get infected if not taken care of. It often impacts your big toe and is most common in those who are older, are overweight, have diabetes, or have persistent sweaty feet. One of the best ways to prevent ingrown toenails is wearing shoes that fit properly and avoid cutting your toenails too short. It’s important to address the issue right away as untreated ingrown toenails may require the removal of your toenail root.
Osteoarthritis:
The normal wear and tear of aging can lead to osteoarthritis. This is because the average person has walked more than 75,000 miles by age 50. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in your foot breaks down. Cartilage is the flexible tissue found in your feet that protects your bones from rubbing against one another. You are at a higher risk for the condition after age 65 so it’s important to talk with your doctor about any foot pain you experience as you get older.
Bunions:
These are painful and bony lumps that are found on the side of your big toe. It’s located on the joint where your big toe and foot meet. They are most commonly caused by unsupportive and poorly fitted shoes. They are most common in women and older adults. Consult with a podiatrist if you notice any protrusions on your feet as bunions grow slowly. Untreated bunions may require surgery in serious cases.
