Visiting a foot specialist for ongoing care in your golden years promotes mobility and helps prevent foot pain, which is often reported as the cause of recurrent falls in elderly individuals. If you’re wondering which foot-related ailments are common in senior citizens, here’s a rundown on how the aging process can impact your feet and ankles.

4 Issues Foot Specialists Treat in Senior Patients

1. Swollen Feet

Chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, is a condition defined by improperly functioning valves or venous walls in the legs. This ailment impairs blood flow between the legs and the heart, which leads to blood pooling in the legs. One symptom of this disorder is swollen feet and ankles. It impacts roughly 40% of the U.S. population and is seen most frequently in adults over the age of 50.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis, or joint inflammation, is a common condition that impacts millions of adults, particularly those who are overweight. Arthritis in the toes and ankle joints is often treated by foot specialists using anti-inflammatory medication, braces, orthotics, arch support, and physical therapy to improve mobility.

3. Bunion Pain

Bunions are bone deformities that can develop at the base of the big toe. This bony bump impacts the shape of the big toe and results in pain and swelling. Studies have found that bunions are more likely to develop in elderly individuals; however, a podiatrist can provide solutions such as orthotics, bunion pads, and comfortable footwear to minimize symptoms.

4. Plantar Fasciitis

The thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects your heel to your toes can become inflamed due to overuse, resulting in chronic heel pain known as plantar fasciitis. Age and obesity are major risk factors for this condition. The good news is that physical therapy, light stretching and exercise, comfortable footwear, surgery, or steroid injections can reduce pain and heal tissues.

If you’re based in Greater Rochester, NY, and you need a dedicated foot specialist, contact Podiatry Associates of Rochester. Led by Michael L. Giordano DPM, Jennifer F. Wool-Cottone DPM, and Robert A. Russo DPM, this friendly and experienced team of podiatrists takes pride in offering comprehensive foot and ankle care from their two convenient locations. Call (585) 342-8700 to schedule an appointment at their office on Portland Avenue and (585) 426-7320 for the clinic on Buffalo Road. For more information on their services and personalized approach to treating swollen feet and reducing bunion pain, visit their website.