Many people are aware of how the feet are affected as the aging process occurs. Research has shown there is a direct connection with foot health and walking. The feet can maintain strength when walking everyday, which may help improve balance and weight bearing. Other benefits can include increased socialization and independence. Some of the common signs that people notice with age consist of hair loss below the knee, age spots, and the number of corns and calluses that may increase. Additionally, a loss of muscle mass may happen because of inactivity, and this could lead to a foot injury. Some of the foot ailments that are common in the elder population can include plantar fasciitis and onychomycosis, which is the medical term for toenail fungus. Ingrown toenails can also fall into this category and these conditions often need medical attention for complete healing. It is beneficial for elderly patients to be under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options, in addition to performing regular foot examinations.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner 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 offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Osteoarthritis is a disease that often targets people as they get older. What happens is that the cartilage between the joints wears down, removing the cushion between the bones and causing them to touch. This brings intense pain and can cause damage to the bones. In some cases of osteoarthritis, bumps known as Herberen’s and Bouchard nodes form at the joints, particularly in the fingers and toes. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, which is also a progressive disease, and the cause is unknown. In some cases, it is brought on by other conditions, including nervous system disorders, a buildup of certain minerals in the body, congenital diseases, and bone disorders. Treatment is available for osteoarthritis ranging from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and topical creams that help reduce pain to surgery that replaces the cartilage or the joint itself. If you believe you have osteoarthritis that is affecting your feet and ankles, please see a podiatrist for treatment options.  

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner 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 offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, then you might feel a particular kind of pain in the sole, or bottom, of the foot. This pain might be most pronounced during weight-bearing activities. Anyone with this condition ought to see a podiatrist to receive immediate medical attention and treatment. However, to relieve this pain, there are a number of different exercises that one might perform. First, you might consider performing ankle rotations. While in a seated position, lift one leg and rotate the ankle slowly. It is important to perform this exercise on the affected foot. Additionally, to relieve pain from tarsal tunnel syndrome, consider performing pencil lifts. This exercise can be performed by picking up a pencil with the toes, holding it, and then releasing it. This strengthens muscles in the feet. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is nothing to joke about.  Contact a podiatrist today for more information on easing the pain through exercises.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are many professions that require standing for the majority of the day. These can include hairdressers, restaurant employees, and many retail workers. The feet endure the weight of the body, and foot pain at the end of the day is a common ailment among people in these types of occupations. A portion of this discomfort may be avoided when comfortable shoes are worn, in addition to standing on a cushioned mat. This is also referred to as a stress mat, and is possibly helpful in reducing strain on the joints and muscles. It is beneficial to sit down and elevate the feet often, if applicable. Additionally, people may choose to wear compression socks. These are designed with elastic materials that compress the feet and ankles, and force the blood flow away from the feet. When the workday is finished, relief may be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by enjoying a relaxing foot massage. If you would like more information about how to care for your feet while working, please ask a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.