Impairment
of the lower extremities is a leading cause of activity
limitation in older people, according to the U.S. National
Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
"Foot problems are a health concern that can lead to further
complications like knee, hip and lower-back pain, all of which
undermine mobility," says Michael King, DPM, president of the
American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). "The human foot
has been called the mirror of health. Systemic problems often
related to age, such as diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory
disease often can first be detected in the feet."
Fortunately, boomers can do a lot to maintain and even improve
their foot health. APMA offers this advice to keep your feet
pain free:
Keep walking
Walking offers many benefits for both physical and mental
health. If your feet hurt, however, you may find yourself less
willing to get in the daily walking that's good for your overall
well-being. To keep your walking regimen comfortable be sure to:
* Choose a good quality, lightweight walking shoe with
breathable upper materials like leather or nylon mesh. The heel
counter should be firm, and the shoe heel should have less
cushioning in order to position the foot's heel closer to the
ground for stability. The front of the shoe should offer
adequate support but also be flexible. For a list of footwear
that have been awarded APMA's Seal of Acceptance, visit
www.apma.org/seal.
* Shoe shop in the late afternoon, since feet swell throughout
the day, and have both feet professionally fitted. Wear the type
of socks you intend to wear while walking and be sure the shoe
fits snugly, but not tightly, over the sock. Your toes should
have plenty of room to move around.
Deal with diabetes
Diabetes symptoms often appear in the feet first, and the
extremities can be hit hard by this chronic disease. In fact,
diabetes complications lead to more than 65,000 lower limb
amputations each year. Including a podiatrist in your diabetes
care can reduce the risk of amputation up to 85 percent.
Learn to recognize warning signs that often appear in the feet,
including changes in skin color, swelling, numbness, pain, open
sores that heal slowly, ingrown or fungal toenails, bleeding
corns and calluses and dry cracks in the skin, especially around
the heels.
If you have diabetes, inspect your feet daily for cuts, bruises,
sores or changes to the toenails. Wear thick, soft socks without
seams that could rub or cause blisters. Always have new shoes
properly fitted and never go barefoot, not even in your own
home.
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Manage
arthritis
Arthritis can affect the structure and function of your feet. Common
symptoms in the feet include joint swelling, joint pain or
tenderness, redness or heat in joints, limited movement, early
morning stiffness, and skin changes, including rashes and growths.
Podiatrists are often the first to diagnose a patient's arthritis.
Treatment can take many forms, including physical therapy, exercise,
and medication. Receiving regular check-ups are vital to
successfully managing the condition.
General foot health
In addition to shoes that fit properly, it's important to choose
socks, pantyhose or stockings that also fit well and are free of
seams.
If you have corns or calluses, never cut them with a razor, pocket
knife or other sharp instrument. If corns or calluses are present,
consult a podiatrist and only use over-the-counter foot products if
he or she advises it.
Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm water with a mild soap that
contains moisturizers, or use a separate moisturizer after your
bath. Trim or file toenails straight across and inspect your feet
every day. If you notice redness, swelling, cracks in the skin or
sores, see your podiatrist.
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