Foot pain in the elderly can stem from various underlying health issues, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life. One contributing factor is kidney disease, which can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the feet, causing discomfort. Neurological disorders may also play a role, as conditions such as neuropathy can result in altered sensations and pain due to nerve damage. Additionally, thyroid disorders can affect metabolism and circulation, leading to symptoms that manifest in the feet. A lack of vitamin D, essential for bone health, can also result in weakness and discomfort, particularly in the lower extremities. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment options.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis
• Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes
• Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet
• Arthritis
• Flat feet
• Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

• Heel pain
• Arch pain
• Toe pain
• Ball of foot pain
• Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality
• Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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

Ankle sprains can affect anyone, although some people are at a higher risk of injury than others. If you have a history of ankle sprains, you may be more prone to future sprains, because weakened or stretched ligaments can lead to chronic ankle instability. People involved in sporting activities that require frequent jumping or quick direction changes, such as basketball or soccer, also face a higher likelihood of incurring this type of injury. Anyone with loose joints, known as ligamentous laxity, has a greater chance of ankle sprains resulting from flexible ligaments. A high-arched foot structure can further increase risk, as this foot type often makes inward rolling easier, predisposing the ankle to injury. Weak muscles surrounding the ankle can also contribute to sprains, as these muscles provide stability during high-risk movements. A chiropodist can assess your foot structure, joint stability, and muscle strength, recommending exercises or supports to reduce your injury risk. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice and guidance.

When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include: 

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Difficulty walking
• Ankle instability
• A reduced range of motion in the ankle 

Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of: 

• Resting the injured ankle
• Applying ice
• Elevating the ankle
• Compressing the ankle
• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle
• Ankle exercises
• Surgery (in rare cases) 

It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are not only a cosmetic concern but can also indicate underlying health issues, including vitamin deficiencies. Essential vitamins, particularly vitamins A, E, and B, play a vital role in maintaining skin health. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to dry and flaky skin, making the heels more susceptible to cracking. Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties, helps in skin repair and hydration. Additionally, B vitamins contribute to overall skin health, and their lack can exacerbate dryness and irritation. Hydration and proper nutrition are essential for skin integrity, and ensuring an adequate intake of these vitamins can help prevent cracked heels. Cracked heels can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can help you manage this condition.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing
• Wearing open-back shoes
• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Taking long, hot showers
• Not moisturizing the heels
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet
• Exfoliating with a pumice stone
• Moisturizing the heels
• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels
• Avoiding prolonged standing
• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers
• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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