Feet change as people grow older, but persistent pain should not be dismissed as a normal part of aging. The natural cushioning beneath the heels and balls of the feet can become thinner, placing more pressure on bones and joints. Skin can grow drier, while nails may become thicker and harder to trim. Changes in foot shape can also make familiar shoes feel tight. These changes can cause soreness, stiffness, or swelling, and can make standing or walking less comfortable. Arthritis, diabetes, and poor circulation can add to foot problems and slow healing after an injury.
Age-related foot pain can affect the heel, arch, or toes. It may come from corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails. Bunions and hammertoes can also create painful pressure inside shoes. Some patients develop numbness or burning because the nerves are damaged. Others have joint pain that makes the first steps after rest difficult. Shoes that lack proper support can place added strain on aging feet. Shoes that are too narrow can rub the skin and crowd the toes. Any sore, cut, or color change deserves attention, especially for patients with diabetes or circulation problems.
A chiropodist can examine the feet, identify the source of pain, and create a treatment plan. Care includes reducing thick nails, removing hard skin, and treating corns. A chiropodist can also assess changes in foot shape and check for areas of pressure. Custom orthotics may improve support, spread pressure more evenly, and make movement comfortable. Advice about fitted shoes can help protect sensitive areas and improve stability when walking. Regular appointments allow a chiropodist to monitor circulation, skin and nail changes. Early assessment can help prevent a minor foot problem from becoming more serious. If you have age-related foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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 Toronto, ON .
