Falls are a leading concern for elderly individuals and are often linked to underlying health conditions that affect balance and stability. Poor vision from conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration can make it difficult to navigate safely, increasing the risk of tripping or misjudging steps. Diabetes can contribute to falls through nerve damage in the feet, known as peripheral neuropathy, which reduces sensation and affects coordination. Cardiovascular conditions, including irregular heart rhythms or low blood pressure, can cause dizziness or fainting episodes that lead to sudden falls. Other factors such as muscle weakness, joint pain, or medication side effects may also play a role. Falling can seriously impact the feet, possibly causing difficulty in maintaining independence. If you have injured your feet or ankles from falling or want your fall risk assessed, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Newark, DE. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel pain is often caused by plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition usually causes sharp pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing. A heel spur is a bony growth that can develop on the underside of the heel bone, often resulting from chronic strain on foot muscles and ligaments. Although heel spurs may not always cause pain, when they do, the discomfort can feel similar to plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips for heel spurs and plantar fasciitis.
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Wearing ill-fitting shoes
Wearing non-supportive shoes
Weight change
Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Newark, DE. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail fungus is an infection that affects the toenail and the skin underneath it. It often causes the nail to become thick, yellow, and brittle, or to lift away from the nail bed. Fungal toenails are more common in older adults, especially those with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Fungus grows well in warm, damp places like sweaty shoes. For that reason, people who wear tight or closed shoes for long hours or use shared shower areas may be more likely to be exposed. The infection usually starts slowly and can become worse over time if not treated. Because toenails grow slowly and have less blood flow than other parts of the body, treating a fungal nail infection can take several months. A podiatrist may prescribe oral medication to fight the infection from the inside, or use topical treatments for mild cases. In more serious situations, surgery to remove the damaged nail might be recommended. If you have been infected with a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Newark, DE. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
