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Some pretty colourful shoes were warn throughout the 1960s, 70s and 80s – but we now know a lot more about feet than we ever did! So how has our lifestyle choices from the last half-century impacted on foot health?  

With Senior’s Week underway in Queensland this week (August 19 – 27), let’s take a look at the biggest foot problems that elderly Australians face today.  

Most common age-related foot conditions for seniors:

  • Bunions – These are bony lumps found at the base of the big toe when the big toe points sideways toward the second toe. Causes include tight fitting footwear, genetics and biomechanical problems such as rolled in flat feet.
  • Corns and calluses – Callus is a collection of dead skin cells in an area of the foot subject to pressure and/or friction. A corn develops in a localised area of very high pressure usually under the foot or between the toes.
  • Diabetes – Diabetes causes a reduction in foot and leg circulation and affects sensation. As we age, if you have diabetes, a small injury can result in infection, ulceration, which can lead to amputation. 
  • Arthritis – Arthritis of the joints in the foot and ankle is a painful and debilitating condition. Wear and tear arthritis and the effects of Rheumatoid arthritis is common as we age. 
  • General foot pain – normal daily wear and tear of joints, loss
    of skin elasticity, and dry and fragile skin are problems we develop naturally as we age.

These foot conditions can lead to pain, loss of mobility, weight gain and an overall decrease in health.  

They say you are only as old as you feel, so imagine how you would feel if you couldn’t walk or had foot pain every day?  Walking is one of the best ways to exercise and maintain independence and quality of life, so as you get older it is even more important to look after your feet.  

Having a good podiatrist check in on your feet at least annually can help to identify any problems immediately and implement a treatment plan promptly. It’s a simple step in the right direction towards keeping you on your feet for life. 

Book an appointment with your Podiatrist today. Call 1800 FOOTDR or book online.