July 2023

Many elderly people who have chronic foot pain assume it is from the aging process. Any level of foot pain is considered to be abnormal, and it is beneficial to explore reasons why current foot pain exists. Having foot pain may be a gateway toward health issues such as diabetes, arthritis, or poor circulation, and addressing it as soon as possible may help to prevent these types of conditions from becoming worse. Good foot care habits for seniors can include trimming the toenails straight across instead of in a curved fashion, which may help to prevent ingrown toenails from developing. Additionally, after the feet are washed and dried daily, the soles can be inspected for any cuts or scrapes that have developed. It is beneficial to be under the care of a podiatrist during these years who can advise you on proper measures for implementing good foot care. It is important to choose shoes that have ample room for the toes to move freely in, with enough room to pinch the material on the sides or top of the shoe. If you have specific concerns about foot care for elderly people, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with expert knowledge.

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 Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . 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 one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has shown millions of people fall every year, which could lead to disabilities or even death. Over the last 20 years the number of falls has increased more rapidly than any other type of injury, according to world health experts. It is beneficial to have programs in place that can teach balance and strength training to older individuals. Tai chi and yoga, which can fall into these categories, may improve overall health in addition to preventing falls. Many falls happen in the home, and installing grab bars in the toilet and shower areas may help to reduce these accidents. Additionally, it can help to replace worn rugs and improve lighting in the living areas. Falling can affect the feet, and it is crucial to avoid injuring the toes or feet. If you would like to learn more about effective fall prevention techniques, it is suggested that you speak with 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 Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . 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 one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People may enjoy playing pickleball instead of tennis as it is less demanding on the body. It is wise to properly stretch the feet and ankles before engaging in this sport, which may help prevent chronic or acute injuries. Acute pain can be traumatic and is generally caused by a single event, such as falling and bracing the body with one hand. This may lead to incurring a broken wrist. Repeated stress over time may point to developing a chronic injury. An example of this can be reaching down to hit a low ball and repeating it several times throughout the match. A common injury people can get while playing pickleball can affect the Achilles tendon. This is located in the lower back of the leg and connects the heels to the calf muscles. This injury may be acute or chronic, and the Achilles tendon can become completely or partially torn. It is beneficial to stretch the heels and calf muscles before beginning to play pickleball, in addition to wearing proper shoes for this type of sport. If you would like more information about how the feet can be affected by a pickleball injury, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When the tendon that attaches the calf muscle to the heel is completely torn, it is known as an Achilles tendon tear. This injury is often seen in middle-aged male sports participants. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, and it is prone to injury, especially during sports involving running and jumping because sudden and explosive force is exerted on it. Certain antibiotics and cortisone shots can make one more apt to tear this tendon, and some medical professionals do not give cortisone shots for Achilles tendonitis for this reason. The main symptom of an Achilles tear is sudden and intense pain behind the ankle. Some who have sustained this injury have heard a popping or cracking sound and describe it as being kicked in the heel. There is often difficulty pointing toes down and some may experience swelling and bruising around the tendon. If you think you have torn your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.