Falls are a frequent concern among older adults, often resulting in injuries that affect daily life. As people age, several factors can increase the likelihood of falling. Reduced muscle strength, slower reflexes, and balance issues all contribute. Conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, or foot pain can make walking difficult or unpredictable. Footwear that lacks adequate support or stability may further affect balance. Environmental factors, such as uneven flooring or poorly lit hallways, also raise the risk of falling. Foot problems like bunions, hammertoes, or painful calluses can interfere with gait and cause instability. Chiropodists can assess foot structure and function, identify painful or unstable areas, and recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics. They may also monitor skin and nail conditions that could affect walking comfort. Regular visits can help identify problems early and support safer movement. If you are at risk of falling or have fallen recently, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.

Falls are a common but preventable problem for older adults. If you would like to learn more about preventing falls, 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. 

Did you know that most falls occur in the home? Fortunately, there are many simple changes that you can make to the living environment to reduce the risk of falling. 

In the Bathroom:

• Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers
• Put non-skid mats on all surfaces that may get wet

In the Bedroom:

• Keep a light near the bed so that you can easily turn it on if you have to get up at night
• Keep the path from your bedroom to the bathroom clutter-free and well-lit
• Consider installing a bed rail for added support

In the Kitchen:

• Use non-skid mats
• Wipe up any spills immediately
• Move commonly used items to areas that are easily within your reach

In the Hallways:

• Place handrails on both sides of the stairs
• Install good lighting in the hallways and around the entire home
• Keep hallways free of clutter
• Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs

In Other Living Areas: 

• Keep loose cables, cords, and wires near the wall and away from walking surfaces
• Make sure that all carpets and rugs are secure firmly to the floor
• Arrange your furniture so that it is not in your way when you walk
• Use chairs and couches that you can easily get up from

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.

Taking care of your feet each day is essential for overall health and comfort. Start by washing and thoroughly drying your feet daily to prevent infections and keep skin fresh. Staying active helps improve circulation, while simple foot stretches maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Choosing comfortable shoes and keeping toenails trimmed can also protect your feet from discomfort and injury. A chiropodist can provide expert care by addressing common concerns, such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, and foot pain, which helps you maintain healthy feet for the long term. If you experience persistent foot issues, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot care routines. 

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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters on the feet can take different forms depending on their cause and appearance. Clear blisters are usually filled with serum, a fluid that protects damaged skin. Blood blisters occur when small blood vessels are damaged, and infected blisters may have a yellow or white tint due to pus. Friction is the most common cause of foot blisters, especially when wearing shoes that are either too tight or too loose. Moist, warm skin increases the chances of blister formation during walking or running. Certain medical conditions, infections, or skin disorders may also trigger blisters. In rare cases, exposure to chemicals or allergens can cause the skin to blister. A chiropodist can examine your feet, identify the source of blistering, and recommend treatment to support healing. If you have problematic blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.

Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, 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. 

What Is a Blister? 

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin. 

Treatment 

If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad. 

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.