Foot pain and toe deformities are common among seniors, and improper shoe fit is often a major contributor. Many older people wear shoes that are too narrow or short for their feet, placing pressure on the toes and forefoot. This can lead to painful conditions such as corns, bunions, and changes in the shape of the smaller toes. Footwear that is shorter than the actual foot length has been linked to toe deformities, while shoes that are too narrow often contribute to chronic discomfort. In women, wearing shoes with elevated heels, especially those higher than an inch, has been associated with pain under the ball of the foot and increased risk of bunion development. Over time, these issues may lead to reduced stability and make walking more difficult. A chiropodist can assess foot shape, measure footwear properly, and provide advice on supportive shoes that reduce strain. If you are an older adult experiencing foot pain regularly, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin

• Calluses and corns

• Blisters

• Ingrown toenails

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

• Fungal infections

• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

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

Wearing flip flops may feel convenient, but over time they can negatively affect foot structure. Because flip flops often lack proper support, the toes are forced to grip the sole with every step to keep the shoe in place. This constant gripping can lead to tension in the toes and top of the foot, contributing to discomfort and muscle strain. Stretching the top of the foot and the calf muscles can help relieve some of this tension and restore flexibility. These simple movements can promote better circulation and reduce pain. A chiropodist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatment or custom orthotics to relieve symptoms. If you experience pain from frequent wearing of flip flops, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on proper shoe choice.

Flip-flops, though they may seem harmless, are bad for your foot health. If you would like to learn more about the many problems that can be caused by frequent flip-flop wear, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Flip-flops are the quintessential summer shoe, seemingly perfect for the beach or pool. Unfortunately, these flimsy shoes are not a good choice when it comes to keeping your feet healthy. 

Frequently wearing flip-flops is associated with: 

• Hammertoes

• Bunions

• Plantar fasciitis

• Heel spurs 

• Cracked heels

• Plantar warts

• Athlete’s foot

• Foot pain

• Foot and ankle injuries

• Gait changes

• Leg, hip, and back pain

The best way to avoid these issues is to swap your flip-flops for more protective and supportive shoes. If you must wear flip-flops, wear them only for short periods of time. 

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

Diabetes can affect the feet by damaging nerves and reducing blood flow, which increases the risk of injuries and infections. Diabetic patients may notice numbness, tingling, burning, dry or discolored skin, or a loss of balance and muscle strength. Since sensation is reduced, even a small cut or blister on the foot may go unnoticed and develop into a serious infection. Foot conditions linked to diabetes include foot ulcers, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Bacterial infections, gangrene, peripheral vascular disease can also be linked to diabetes. Risk increases with long-term diabetes, smoking, or medical conditions such as kidney or eye disease. Regular foot checks are essential, especially for those who are already at risk. A chiropodist can test your circulation, monitor nerve function, treat skin problems, and help prevent injuries. They may also assist with selecting proper footwear and managing deformities. If you have foot problems connected to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for expert advice.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Degenerative arthritis, also called osteoarthritis, is a condition where the cartilage in the joints gradually wears down, over time. In the feet and ankles, this can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking. As the protective cartilage becomes thinner, bones may rub against each other, causing discomfort and reduced movement. This condition often develops with age but may also result from past injuries or repeated stress on the joints. Symptoms may come and go or slowly worsen over the years. Supportive shoes, orthotics, targeted exercises, and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and improve function. In advanced cases, joint injections may be recommended. Staying active with low-impact exercises can also help maintain joint flexibility. If you are finding it harder to walk or move comfortably due to joint pain, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for a thorough evaluation and care options.

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain

• Joint stiffness

• Swelling in or around the joint

• Restricted range of motion

• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

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