Foot Health for Elderly in Long-Term Care Settings
Long-term care for foot health is a critical concern for the elderly, as aging often leads to various foot problems that can impact mobility and overall well-being. Common issues include toenail disorders, dry skin, corns, calluses, and conditions like arthritis or diabetes, which can lead to more severe complications such as foot ulcers or infections. Reduced circulation and nerve sensitivity make it harder for seniors to notice injuries, which can worsen if left untreated. Regular foot care, including proper hygiene, moisturization, and regular inspections, is essential in preventing these issues. In long-term care settings, caregivers play a vital role in maintaining foot health by assisting with daily foot care, ensuring appropriate footwear, and arranging for podiatry visits. Addressing foot problems early on can help maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve the overall quality of life for elderly individuals. If you are an elderly person living in a long-term care setting, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist among the doctors that you see regularly.
If you need your feet checked, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common Soccer Injuries and How to Prevent Them
Soccer, while exhilarating, often leads to injuries such as ankle sprains, foot stress fractures, and blisters. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched or torn due to sudden twists or impacts. Foot stress fractures result from repetitive stress and overuse, often causing persistent pain and swelling. Blisters develop from friction between the skin and footwear, causing painful, fluid-filled bumps. To prevent these injuries, players should use well-fitted, supportive soccer shoes and replace them regularly to ensure optimal cushioning. Proper warm-up and stretching routines help prepare the muscles and joints, reducing the risk of sprains and fractures. Additionally, keeping feet dry and wearing moisture-wicking socks can minimize blister formation. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury while playing soccer, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment and guide you on effective injury prevention methods.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Flexible Flat Feet
Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly or collapse over time, resulting in the entire sole touching the ground when standing. This condition is common and often begins in childhood, with flexible flat feet being the most prevalent type. In this form, the arch appears only when the foot is lifted and disappears when it touches the ground. While many individuals experience no pain, flat feet can often cause discomfort during prolonged standing, walking, or running. Additional causes can include a tight Achilles tendons and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, which may lead to pain and instability in the foot and ankle. Factors like genetics, aging, injury, obesity, and certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing flat feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend orthotic supports, and suggest treatments to alleviate pain. If you often experience foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel Spur Information
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone, often causing significant discomfort. This condition typically arises from repetitive stress or strain on the foot, which can lead to inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament that supports the arch. Risk factors can include obesity, prolonged standing, improper footwear, and activities that put excessive pressure on the feet. The main symptom is sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. To prevent heel spurs, it is essential to wear supportive shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid excessive strain on the feet. Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia can also help reduce the risk of developing this condition. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are the result of calcium deposits that cause bony protrusions on the underside of the heel. Heel spurs are usually painless, but they have the potential to cause heel pain. Heel spurs tend to be associated with plantar fasciitis, which is a condition that causes inflammation of the band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. They most often occur to athletes whose sports involve a lot of running and jumping.
Some risk factors for developing heel spurs include running and jogging on hard surfaces, being obese, wearing poorly fitting shoes, or having walking gait abnormalities.
It is possible to have a heel spur without showing signs of any symptoms. However, if inflammation develops at the point of the spur’s formation, you may have pain while walking or running. In terms of diagnosis, sometimes all a doctor needs to know is that the patient is experiencing a sharp pain localized to the heel to diagnose a heel spur. Other times, an x-ray may be needed to confirm the presence of a heel spur.
Heel spurs can be prevented by wearing well-fitting shoes that have shock-absorbent soles. You should also be sure that you are choosing the right shoe for the activity you want to partake in; for example, do not wear walking shoes when you want to go on a run. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can be beneficial toward preventing heel spurs, as it will prevent an excess amount of pressure being placed on the ligaments.
There are a variety of treatment options for people with heel spurs. Some of these include stretching exercises, physical therapy, shoe inserts, or taping and strapping to rest stressed muscles and tendons. If you have heel pain that lasts longer than a month, don’t hesitate to seek help from a podiatrist. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment option is best for you.
Toe Pain
Toe pain can originate from corns, calluses, hammertoes, and bunions, as well as ingrown toenails, sprains, fractures, and dislocations. Corns develop as the toe rubs against the inside of a shoe which causes the skin to thicken as a form of protection. A corn is typically cone-shaped and has a small, hardened spot that points inward. When a corn is pressed into the skin, the toe becomes painful. Corns usually form on the top or side of the toe. A callus is also a thickened patch of skin that generally forms on the bottom of the foot. Calluses are the result of friction from the toe rubbing against the inside of a shoe. They may also occur by walking barefoot or having flat feet. A hammertoe is a bump on the knuckle of the second toe that is produced by wearing shoes that are too short for your feet. The bony protrusion rubs against the top of the shoe causing pain and irritation. A bunion is a malformation of the big toe. The base of the big toe pushes away from the smaller toes, forcing the top of the big toe to press toward the other toes. Bunions can be hereditary, or they can result from injury to the toe joint or from wearing high heels with a narrow toe box. The toe becomes inflamed, and a bump may develop at the end of the misplaced bone. Ingrown toenails typically affect the big toe and its surrounding skin. The nail will dig into the skin and become painful. Wearing tight or narrow shoes that compress the big toe causes the nail to grow into the fleshy part of the toe. Cutting toenails incorrectly can also add to the development of an ingrown toenail. A toe sprain originates from a torn or stretched ligament. Strapping the injured toe to the toe next to it for stabilization is common. A broken or fractured toe usually occurs from trauma like dropping a heavy object on it or bumping into something extremely hard and rigid. Osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones, can also bring about toe fractures.
Any of the conditions mentioned can lead to pain and irritation. While some are more serious than others, seeking an examination and diagnosis from a podiatrist is a good idea. A podiatrist can treat each ailment and get you back on your feet again without pain.
Understanding Common Causes of Gout
Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, which crystallize in the joints and commonly affect the big toe. Common causes of gout include high stress levels, which can trigger inflammatory responses and exacerbate symptoms. Fatigue also plays a role, as it can impair the body's ability to manage uric acid effectively. Joint injuries, such as those sustained during physical activities, can exacerbate gout attacks by causing localized inflammation. Additionally, diet significantly influences gout. Consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, seafood, and sugary beverages, can increase uric acid levels. Managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding joint injuries are essential steps in preventing and controlling gout. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to successfully manage this painful condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Gout, typically found in diabetic patients, is an unusually painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. The condition typically strikes the big joint on the big toe. It has also been known to strike the knees, elbows, fingers, ankles and wrists—generally anywhere that has a functioning, moving joint.
The high level of uric acid in a person’s bloodstream creates the condition known as hyperuricema—the main cause of gout. Genetic predisposition occurs in nine out of ten sufferers. The children of parents who suffer gout will have a two in ten chance of developing the condition as well.
This form of arthritis, being particularly painful, is the leftover uric acid crystallizing in the blood stream. The crystallized uric acid then travels to the space between joints where they rub, causing friction when the patient moves. Symptoms include: pain, redness, swelling, and inflammation. Additional side effects may include fatigue and fever, although reports of these effects are very rare. Some patients have reported that pain may intensify when the temperature drops, such as when you sleep.
Most cases of gout are easily diagnosed by a podiatrist’s assessment of the various symptoms. Defined tests can also be performed. A blood test to detect elevated levels of uric acid is often used as well as an x-ray to diagnose visible and chronic gout.
Treatment for gout simply means eliminating symptoms. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (Colchicine and other corticosteroid drugs, etc.) will quell the redness, the swelling, and the inflammation. However, managing your diet, lifestyle changes, and using preventative drugs are all helpful toward fully combating the most severe cases.
Those that lead an inactive lifestyle are at a higher risk for gout. Any amount of exercise decreases the probability of repeat encounters with the condition. Reducing your consumption of red meat, sea food, and fructose-sweetened drinks also reduces the likelihood of chronic gout as well.
Ingesting Vitamin C, coffee, and particular dairy products can help with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There are new drugs out on the market that inhibit the body’s production of uric acid-producing enzymes. However, reducing or eliminating your overall levels of uric acid is the best remedy to ensuring you lead a gout-free life.
Cracked Heels Relief
Cracked heels, or heel fissures, are splits in the skin on the heels often caused by dry, thickened skin and excessive pressure on the feet. Factors such as prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, obesity, and skin conditions like eczema can contribute to their development. Anyone can experience cracked heels, but they are more common in older adults and those with diabetes. Relief may come from moisturizing, exfoliating, and wearing supportive footwear. If you have deep heel cracks that are painful or show signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment for treatment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to prevent complications. This foot doctor will often prescribe medication for complete healing.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Solutions for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can make life very frustrating and embarrassing when displaying the bare feet. Aside from being unpleasing to the eye, they can also tear stockings and socks and wear out shoes at a faster rate. When severe, cracked heels may cause pain or infection.
Cracked heels are a problem for those who are athletic, those who may walk a lot, and those who have especially dry skin. Those who use medication that dry the skin, those who swim often, wearing certain types of shoes, and those who are diabetic may have trouble with cracked heels. Seniors whose skin produces less oil may also have trouble with cracked feet. There is no one way to develop cracked feet, and there is no cure.
Today, the market consists of numerous products that have a variety of ingredients to promote healing. Some of these are over-the-counter. Others are prescribed by a doctor, especially for those who have chronic dry feet and heels.
Some doctors recommend wearing socks at night for those with rough skin. This helps further healing, and helps creams stay on longer and better absorb into the skin.
One way to alleviate dryness that causes cracked heels is by using moisturizers both day and night. Another way is to make sure the skin is clean and dry at all times. Using a pumice stone to buff away dead skin before putting on moisturizer can also help. Cracked heels will not respond to the cream unless the outer layer of skin is first removed through exfoliation. After exfoliation, lotion or ointment will be absorbed by the skin more easily.
Foods that produce healing and balance can also help the skin from within. Everything that is put into the body can either help it or hurt it. Taking supplements of omega-3 fatty acids and zinc can also be very beneficial.
Nevertheless, not all products are guaranteed to help treat cracked feet. Seeing a professional is best if other treatments options were unsuccessful. A podiatrist should be able to give the best advice to help with this problem.
