Caring For Our Feet As We Age

Our bodies change as we age, and that goes for our feet as well. The stress we place upon them while taking thousands of steps each day as we go about our business takes its toll. The podiatrist at Mark Costopoulos, DPM wants our patients to understand these changes and how they can keep walking safely and comfortably through the years.

• The skin on our feet can become thinner and more fragile over the years, making it more prone to cuts, scrapes, and infections.
• The muscles, tendons, and ligaments on our feet can lose elasticity over time. This can often lead to a flattening of the arches and a looser, wider fit in shoes.
• Arthritis is a common condition that can affect the joints in our feet, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Some people report experiencing numbness, tingling, and pain due to decreased circulation in their feet.
• It’s common to notice your toenails becoming thicker, harder, and more brittle as you age. Sometimes they also may grow more slowly.

To protect your feet:

• Wash and dry them thoroughly every day, especially between the toes.
• Moisturize to prevent your skin from becoming dry and cracked.
• Wear well-fitting shoes that provide good support, and remember when choosing a pair that your size may change.
• Keep your feet strong and improve circulation by getting regular exercise.
• Schedule regular checkups with our podiatrist to address any foot problems you may be experiencing before they become serious.

We hope these recommendations have shed some light on these critical areas. Balance and mobility are essential, and you can ensure that you’re protecting both by coming in for a visit with our podiatrist at Mark Costopoulos, DPM. You’ll receive a comprehensive, hands-on examination by our foot and ankle specialist, we’ll evaluate your gait and balance, and recommend an over-the-counter or custom-made orthotic if indicated. Please call or click to schedule an appointment today.