As people age, their feet undergo various structural and functional changes, impacting the ability to stay active and maintain mobility. Age-related factors include reduced muscle mass, thinning bones, and stiffening joints. In addition, conditions like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and muscle weakness often lead to discomfort and limited range of motion. With less natural lubrication and flexibility in the joints, movements may become stiff, increasing the risk of foot and ankle pain and injury. Fortunately, regular physical activity can help reduce many of these age-related foot changes by strengthening bones, enhancing muscle tone, and preserving joint flexibility. Chiropodists can offer guidance on exercises, assess and manage foot or ankle pain, and address issues like poor balance and weakened muscles. By regularly evaluating foot health, chiropodists can help older adults stay active and reduce risks associated with foot instability or joint issues. If you are a senior who is experiencing foot or ankle pain or weakness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.

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 Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner 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 Scarborough, ON . 

Treating your feet right is essential for staying active and enjoying life. Your feet support your entire body and allow you to move, but they are often neglected until problems arise. Common causes of foot issues include poor footwear choices, lack of foot care, and overuse from standing or walking for long periods. Three common foot problems are plantar fasciitis, bunions, and corns. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain due to inflammation, bunions lead to misaligned toes and discomfort, while corns form from friction and pressure. Tender loving care for your feet includes wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes, keeping feet clean and moisturized, and resting them when needed. It is suggested that you regularly inspect your feet for changes and see a chiropodist when necessary to prevent small issues from becoming big problems. This can ensure your feet stay healthy and pain-free, helping you stay mobile and active.

Caring for your feet is not just something done at the chiropodist’s office. Good foot care starts at home. If you would like to learn more about daily foot care practices, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are many things that you can do at home to help care for your feet, including: 

• Wearing shoes and socks that fit properly
• Washing the feet daily with soap and water
• Drying the feet thoroughly
• Applying moisturizer to the soles and heels of the feet
• Taking a walk and exercising the feet regularly
• Doing foot stretches and strengthening exercises 

A chiropodist can help figure out a manageable foot care routine for you to keep your feet healthy. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON . 

Cracked heels, also referred to as heel fissures, are a common foot ailment characterized by dry, cracked skin on the heels. This condition typically occurs when the skin becomes dry and lacks moisture, leading to the formation of fissures or splits. Several factors contribute to cracked heels, including prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, dry climate, and dehydration, in addition to certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease. Finding relief from cracked heels involves a combination of preventive measures and treatment strategies. Regularly moisturizing the feet with a thick, emollient foot cream or moisturizer helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevent further cracking. Exfoliating the heels with a pumice stone or foot file can help remove dead skin cells and smoothen rough areas. Additionally, wearing supportive shoes with cushioned insoles and avoiding walking barefoot can reduce pressure on the heels and promote healing. For severe cases, it is suggested that advice is sought from a chiropodist who can help you manage this sometimes painful condition.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin
• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps
• Standing for long periods of time
• Walking barefoot
• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops
• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time
• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back
• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water
• Moisturizing the feet daily

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .