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Essential Foot Care Tips for Older Adults

As people age, foot health becomes increasingly important for maintaining mobility and independence. Foot care tips for older adults include wearing supportive shoes and clean socks to protect against injury and infection. Promoting good circulation by moving regularly and propping up the ankles when seated can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Additionally, washing feet daily and thoroughly drying them prevents fungal issues, while trimming toenails properly reduces the risk of ingrown nails. A podiatrist can provide regular checkups, manage foot conditions, and offer advice tailored to individual needs. If you or a loved one are experiencing foot pain or difficulty with foot care, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, ensuring long-term comfort, safety, and mobility.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. 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 Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Understanding Causes and Symptoms of Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe moves toward the lesser toes. This causes the joint to stick out and often leads to discomfort. Bunions develop over time due to genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, or abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, redness, swelling, and pain around the big toe joint. The area may feel tender or sore, especially when walking or wearing shoes. When the big toe leans toward the other toes, it sometimes results in overlapping or crowding. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions and recommend treatments like wider footwear, padding, custom orthotics, and exercises to reduce pressure and pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the joint. If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Understanding Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet in children occur when the arch of the foot does not fully develop, causing the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground. This condition may be flexible or rigid and can be caused by genetics, loose ligaments, or developmental issues. In flexible flat feet, the arch can be seen when the foot is elevated, and disappears when the foot is placed on the ground. Conversely, in rigid flat feet, there is no arch present at all. Children with either type of flat feet might experience foot pain, fatigue, or difficulty in walking long distances. Some kids may not show symptoms but still develop posture or balance problems over time. A podiatrist can assess the child’s foot structure and provide customized treatment, including orthotics or footwear recommendations. Early evaluation is essential to prevent long-term complications. If your child shows signs of flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for an examination and any necessary treatment. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. 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 Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Diabetes and Foot Problems Often Go Hand in Hand

Diabetes can quietly affect the feet in serious ways. Changes in circulation and nerve function may cause numbness, making it harder to feel blisters, cuts, or pressure points. Without early detection, even small issues can turn into infections or open sores that are slow to heal. Dry skin, foot deformities, and nail problems are also more common with diabetes, increasing the risk of complications. Regular foot checks and wearing protective shoes are important steps in prevention. Staying alert to changes in skin color, temperature, or sensation can help stop problems before they start. Because diabetic foot issues can worsen quickly, proper care is essential. If you have diabetes and notice foot pain, discoloration, or any break in the skin, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist for a full evaluation and a care plan designed to keep your feet healthy.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
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