Foot pain is common among the elderly population. It can gradually occur for a variety of reasons which can include medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or complications with circulation. Research has indicated the importance for older people to check the conditions of their feet on a daily basis, as this may be helpful in avoiding unpleasant foot ailments. One of the methods that can be practiced in maintaining good foot health includes checking the bottom of the feet for cuts, bruises, or wounds. Additionally, it is beneficial to check what type of shoes are worn, and to ensure there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like additional information on what to look for in elderly patient's feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Research has indicated that a common cause of foot pain is inflammation. This may be a result of arthritis, and could happen from an immune disorder. Gout is a painful foot condition, and is considered to be a form of arthritis. It occurs as a result of excess uric acid levels in the blood, and may be caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. Psoriasis is a skin condition which may cause psoriatic arthritis, and the joints, tendons, and ligaments are often impacted. If you are experiencing pain in your feet, it is necessary to receive prompt and effective treatment. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to properly diagnose this ailment, and to help you find relief.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Stress fractures primarily occur when the feet are overused. As foot muscles get tired, they are unable to absorb as much shock from impact, and the stress is transferred to the bone. Over half of all stress fractures occur in the lower leg, and athletes involved in activities such as basketball, running, and gymnastics are at a higher risk for trauma. Since stress fractures can be difficult to diagnose through an X-Ray, communicating the risk of stress fractures to doctors is key, because they may have to resort to CT scans or MRIs. If diagnosed with a stress factor, rest is key.  However, a podiatrist may be able to recommend shoe inserts or braces to help as well. For the best treatment methods, please consult with your local podiatrist. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Cracked heels, while physically embarrassing, can also bring a great deal of discomfort and pain to the affected foot. Some common causes of cracked heels may include open-back footwear, weather, and improper skin care. To help remove the dry skin, use a filer and gently scrape the areas that are hardened. Exfoliating, washing, and thoroughly drying the feet may also be beneficial to treating cracked heels. Using a daily moisturizer can also help to ease the discomfort of cracked heels, and it keeps the skin hydrated. In order to safely treat and heal cracked feet, seek the care of your podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

The definition of a corn is a small hardened patch of skin on the sole of the foot that generally develops as a result of excess friction. The types of corns that form on the feet are categorized as either hard, soft, or seed. Hard is considered to be the most common type of corn, and can be found on top of the toes or on the bottom of the feet. Soft corns are typically found between the toes, and can cause pain and discomfort. The skin can become inflamed, and it may be difficult to wear shoes. Clogged sweat glands may produce seed corns, which can appear on the bottom of the feet. Most corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly, in addition to trimming the toenails correctly. Mild relief can be found if a corn pad is worn, as this may provide a protection barrier for existing corns. If you have developed any type of corn, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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