Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle, such as arthritis, tendonitis, and deformities like bunions or flat feet, often evolve gradually but can significantly challenge the quality of life. These conditions frequently arise from wear and tear, injury, genetic predisposition, or underlying issues like diabetes or obesity. Over time, inflammation, joint damage, or altered biomechanics can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Simple activities like walking or standing may become difficult, limiting independence and daily function. As symptoms progress, compensatory gait changes can strain other joints, leading to knee, hip, or back pain. Chronic discomfort may also impact mental well-being. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid negative effects on the quality of your life.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A foot examination is essential for older adults to prevent and manage potential health issues. Start by inspecting the feet for any visible signs of infection, cuts, or bruises. Check for blisters, corns, calluses, or swelling, as these can indicate pressure or friction from footwear. Pay attention to the toenails, looking for signs of fungal infections or ingrown nails. It is important to assess the circulation in the feet, ensuring that there is no unusual color change or coldness, which may signal poor blood flow. Also, examine the skin for any areas of redness or discoloration, which can suggest pressure points or sores. A foot examination is vital as many foot conditions in older adults can go unnoticed, leading to complications such as infections, mobility problems, or even falls if left untreated. If you are elderly and have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various conditions, and perform routine exams for optimal foot health.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors 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 Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet and ankles are a common issue among the elderly and can result from various underlying causes. One common factor is poor circulation, which becomes more prevalent with age, leading to fluid retention in the lower extremities. Conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease can also contribute to swelling, as these organs may struggle to properly regulate fluid balance in the body. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause joint inflammation and fluid buildup, leading to discomfort and swelling in the feet and ankles. Medications, such as those used for high blood pressure or diabetes, may also have swelling as a side effect. Additionally, prolonged sitting or standing, especially during travel or sedentary activities, can cause the feet and ankles to swell. If you are elderly and are experiencing swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.  

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.