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Natural Awakenings Richmond

Healthy Feet Make for a Happier Retirement

Sep 03, 2015 02:36PM ● By Mitchell Waskin

September is national Healthy Aging Month, an annual observance that provides inspiration to adults age 45 and older to improve their physical, mental, social and financial health as they age. This year, more than 82 million Gen-Xers will reach age 50. It is no joking matter when we say someone has a lot of mileage on them—by age 50, our feet may have walked as many as 75,000 miles.

As we age, our feet get wider and flatter and shoe sizes can change. The fat pads on the bottom of the feet, meant to absorb impact and protect their many bones, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves, also begin to wear down. By age 50, we lose as much as half the fat pad protection on our feet.

Older people are at a higher risk for foot problems that can hinder everything from the ability to work to physical activity, sports and simple daily activities. Foot problems can also impair balance and function and if not properly addressed, can lead to knee, hip and lower back pain that further limits mobility.

Foot pain is often the first sign of many illnesses related to aging, including arthritis, diabetes and circulatory disease. Observing preventative foot care can increase comfort, limit additional medical problems and reduce the chance of infection. Many age-related foot problems can be treated successfully.

To help limit foot problems on aging feet, it is recommended to improve foot circulation by stretching and walking, reduce the amount of time spent sitting with legs crossed, avoid tight socks and hose and wear properly fitted shoes—look for shoes that are flexible at the ball of the foot, have a strong heel and are adequately cushioned. It is also a good idea to elevate feet when sitting down, bathe feet daily in lukewarm water and follow with a moisturizer, trim or file toenails straight across and inspect feet on a daily basis. If there is any redness, swelling, cracks in the skin or sores, consult a primary health care provider or podiatrist.  

Dr. Mitchell Waskin, DPM, is certified by the American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery and affiliated with The Foot & Ankle Center at Johnston-Willis Hospital. For more information, call 804-320-3668 or visit 320-Foot.com.