Mobility and Balance Problems in the Elderly
As people age, they often encounter mobility challenges, impacting their ability to move freely. These issues encompass unsteadiness while walking, difficulty in sitting or standing, and the risk of falling. Various factors contribute to these mobility problems in older individuals, including muscle weakness, joint ailments, pain, underlying diseases, and neurological difficulties. Sometimes, multiple mild issues combine, severely affecting mobility. The most common mobility concern among seniors is the risk of falling, which can lead to fractures, injuries, and a persistent fear of falling. Older bones are more fragile and take longer to heal. In cases of minor falls without serious injuries, assisting the person in getting up is vital. If the individual is in pain or injured, it is best to summon help. However, if they can move, they should crawl to a stable chair and use it for support. Falls can result in reduced mobility or bed rest, exacerbating existing medical conditions and leading to new health issues. Encouraging physical activity is essential to combat the fear of falling and its associated inactivity. Even minimal exercise strengthens bones and muscles, enhancing steadiness and preventing fractures. Additionally, conducting a home safety assessment and addressing potential hazards can further prevent falls. If you are a senior or caring for one, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough consultation and communication of any mobility problems and falls.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor 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 our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Elderly Foot Care
As you grow older, you will start to notice more problems with your feet due to wear and tear. This may also happen because the skin will start to become thin and lose elasticity. Some signs of aging feet are regular aches and pains, bunion development, and clawed toes.
Fortunately, there are ways you can improve comfort, relieve pain, and maintain mobility in your feet. One of the best ways to deal with aging feet is to exercise. If you keep active, your muscles will become toned which will then strengthen the arches in the foot and stimulate blood circulation.
It is important that you practice proper foot care to protect your aging feet. You should wash your feet in warm water on an everyday basis. Afterward, the feet need to be dried well and it is important to dry between the toes. Your toenails should be trimmed and kept under control; nails that are poorly cut may become ingrown. At the end of each day, performing an inspection of your feet will allow you to detect any ailments in their early stages.
As you grow older, it becomes more important that you wear comfortable shoes. Your shoes should be secure, and they should provide decent arch support. If you are looking to buy a new pair of shoes, it is best to look for a pair that are made from a breathable material. It is also helpful to have shoes that have a bit of extra room at the top of the shoe, especially if you suffer from swollen feet.
The most common foot problems that elderly people will encounter are bunions, calluses, corns, hammertoes, heel pain, and foot problems related to diabetes. Some other issues include arch pain, tarsal tunnel syndrome, Achilles tendonitis, and Morton’s neuroma
An annual foot examination is a great way for you to ensure that you do not have any serious health problems with your feet. You should talk to a podiatrist about the available treatment options for whichever foot issue you are dealing with.
Decoding the Telltale Symptoms of Plantar Warts
Plantar warts, though often benign, leave their mark on the soles of your feet with distinctive symptoms that merit attention. Typically emerging as flat or slightly raised growths, these warts exhibit a rough texture and may feature small black dots known as wart seeds, caused by clotted blood vessels. While the appearance is unmistakable, it is the discomfort that often draws attention. Plantar warts can cause pain or tenderness, especially while standing or walking, as the pressure on the wart exacerbates the discomfort. The surrounding skin may take on a calloused appearance, and the warts themselves can vary in size. Plantar warts thrive in warm, moist environments, making them frequent visitors to communal spaces like swimming pools or locker rooms. Recognizing these symptoms enables early identification and intervention, ensuring a more comfortable and expedited resolution of this common foot ailment. Plantar warts require the medical attention of a podiatrist, and if you have this ailment, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can offer effective remedies for the accompanying pain and discomfort.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
All About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are warts that are only found on the feet, hence the term “plantar”, which means “relating to the foot.” They are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and occur when this virus gets into open wounds on the feet. The warts themselves are hard bumps on the foot. They are easily recognizable, mostly found on the heels or ball of the foot. Plantar warts are non-malignant, but they can cause some pain, discomfort, and are often unsightly. Removing them is a common step toward treating them.
Plantar warts can cause some pain while standing, sometimes felt as tenderness on the sole of your foot. Unless the wart has grown into the foot behind a callus, you will be able to see the fleshy wart. A podiatrist should only be consulted if there is an excessive amount of pain. Plantar warts are not cancerous or dangerous, but they can affect your walking and continually reappear. Anyone who suffers from diabetes or a compromised immune system disease should seek out care immediately.
Podiatrists are easily able to diagnose plantar warts. They usually scrape off a tiny bit of the rough skin to make tiny blood clots visible and examine the inside of warts. However, a biopsy can be done if the doctor is not able to diagnose them from simply looking at them. Although plantar warts usually do not require an excessive amount of treatment, there are ways to go about removing them. A common method is to freeze them off using liquid nitrogen, removing them using an electrical tool, or burning them off via laser treatment. For a less invasive treatment option, topical creams can be used through a doctor’s prescription. This treatment method takes more time, however. Keep the wart covered for protection in between daily treatments.
The best way to avoid developing plantar warts is to avoid walking barefoot in public places. Avoid this especially if you have open sores or cuts on your feet. It is also important to avoid direct contact with warts in general, as they are highly contagious.
The Danis-Weber Classification of Ankle Fractures
The Danis-Weber classification is a way to categorize ankle fractures based on X-rays. It helps podiatrists understand the type and location of the fracture. There are three types of fractures in this system. Type A is a lower ankle fracture below the joint. It is generally stable and may only need a cast or brace. Sometimes, surgery is necessary if the inner ankle is also damaged. Type B is a fracture that happens at the ankle joint level and moves upward along the outer bone. It can vary in stability. The inner ankle or ligaments may be affected. Type C fractures are fractures above the ankle joint and often involve the inner ligaments, which are unstable and typically require surgery. If you have sustained a broken ankle, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an imaging test and treatment based on which type of fracture is found.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
All About Broken Ankles
Broken ankles are a serious injury that can lead to an inability to walk, function, and also cause a significant amount of pain. A broken ankle is a break in one of the three bones in your body that connect at the ankle joint: the tibia, the fibula, and the talus. The tibia and fibula are your two primary leg bones that connect at the knee, which sit directly upon the talus bone. This is protected by a fibrous membrane that allows for movement in the ankle joint. A broken ankle is usually caused by the foot rolling under or twisting too far, causing one of these three bones to snap.
A broken ankle is different from an ankle sprain, which occurs when the ankle ligaments are ripped or torn but no bones have been broken. A sprain can still be very severe, causing bruising in the foot and an inability to hold your own weight, much like a broken ankle would. If you’re unable to stand, and suspect that you have a broken ankle, the first thing to do would be to get an immediate X-ray to determine the severity of the break.
A common cause of broken ankles is when the ankle is rolled over with enough pressure to break the bones. This usually happens during exercise, sports, or other physical activity. Another common cause is a fall or jump from a tall height.
One immediate treatment for pain relief is elevating the foot above your head to reduce blood flow to the injured area. You can also apply ice packs to your ankle to help reduce swelling, redness, inflammation, and pain. After these initial steps, getting a cast and staying off your feet as much as possible will aid in the recovery of the broken ankle. The less movement and stress the ankle has to endure, the more complete it will heal. A doctor can determine if surgery is needed in order to heal correctly. In these cases, an operation may be the only option to ensure the ability to walk properly again, followed by physical therapy and rehabilitation.
It is highly important to determine if surgery is needed early on, because a broken ankle can become much more severe than you realize. If not professionally treated, the broken ankle will inhibit your walking, daily functioning, and produce a large amount of pain. Treating your broken ankle early on will help prevent further damage to it.
Managing Morning Pain in Achilles Tendon Injuries
Achilles tendon injuries can cast a shadow over the start of the day, with many individuals experiencing heightened discomfort in the morning. This specific pain is often a result of the tendon's response to a period of inactivity during sleep. As the body rests, the tendon may tighten, and upon resuming activity, the sudden stretching can induce pain and stiffness. This morning agony is a common symptom in conditions such as Achilles tendonitis or tendinosis, where the tendon undergoes repetitive stress or degeneration. It is essential to recognize the significance of a gradual warm-up routine before stepping out of bed, incorporating gentle stretches to prepare the Achilles tendon for the day ahead. Additionally, wearing supportive footwear and avoiding sudden, high-impact activities in the morning can contribute to managing and minimizing the discomfort associated with Achilles tendon injuries during those initial awakening moments. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment and relief techniques.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor 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 our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body. Its purpose is to connect the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. This tendon is responsible for facilitating all types of movement, like walking and running. This tendon provides an enormous amount of mobility for the body. Any injuries inflicted to this tissue should be immediately brought up with a physician to prevent further damage.
The most common injuries that can trouble the Achilles tendon are tendon ruptures and Achilles tendinitis. Achilles tendinitis is the milder of the two injuries. It can be recognized by the following symptoms: inflammation, dull-to-severe pain, increased blood flow to the tendon, thickening of the tendon, and slower movement time. Tendinitis can be treated via several methods and is often diagnosed by an MRI.
An Achilles tendon rupture is trickier to heal, and is by far the most painful injury. It is caused by the tendon ripping or completely snapping. The results are immediate and absolutely devastating, and will render the patient immobile. If a rupture or tear occurs, operative and non-operative methods are available. Once the treatment begins, depending on the severity of the injury, recovery time for these types of issues can take up to a year.
Simple preventative measures can be taken as a means to avoid both injuries. Prior to any movement, taking a few minutes to stretch out the tendon is a great way to stimulate the tissue. Calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses are all suggested ways to help strengthen the lower legs and promote Achilles tendon health.
Many problems arise among athletes and people who overexert themselves while exercising. Problems can also happen among those who do not warm up properly before beginning an activity. Proper, comfortable shoes that fit correctly can also decrease tendon injuries. Some professionals also suggest that when exercising, you should make sure that the floor you are on is cushioned or has a mat. This will relieve pressure on the heels. A healthy diet will also increase tendon health.
It is very important to seek out a podiatrist if you believe you have an injury in the Achilles region. Further damage could result in severe complications that would make being mobile difficult, if not impossible.
Parental Guidance for Children Who Have Sever’s Disease
Parental guidance is vital for families with children experiencing Sever's Disease, a common condition affecting the heels of children during growth spurts. First and foremost, it is essential to educate yourself and your child about what Sever's Disease is, and what causes it. By providing age-appropriate information, you can reduce any anxiety your child may have about the condition. One important aspect of managing Sever's Disease is ensuring that your child wears comfortable, supportive shoes with proper arch support. Avoiding flat or poorly cushioned footwear may help to alleviate discomfort. Encourage your child to take breaks and rest, especially during strenuous activities involving running or jumping. Performing gentle calf and Achilles tendon stretches can also promote flexibility and reduce tightness. Support your child with the knowledge that symptoms are likely temporary and resolve when the heel’s growth plate matures. If your child is experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Vital Insights About Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains, though common, are often underestimated in their impact on our daily lives. Understanding these injuries is pivotal for everyone, from athletes to the average person navigating routine activities. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch beyond their limits, often due to a sudden twist or turn. The severity varies, with mild sprains causing discomfort and swelling, while more severe cases may lead to instability and difficulty walking. Recognizing the signs, including pain, swelling, and bruising, is essential for prompt intervention. Ignoring ankle sprains or not providing adequate care can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic instability or arthritis. If you have endured an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and effectively treat this condition.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
