Aging and Your Feet
As we get older our feet undergo various changes that can affect our health and mobility. According to the National Institute of Health, 1 in 5 Australians suffer from foot pain, with problems becoming more prevalent with age. If left unchecked, these issues can lead to significant discomfort and even loss of mobility. Here are some ways aging impacts our feet and how to manage these changes.
Common Foot Changes
Skin Changes:
Dryness: The skin on the feet can become drier with age, leading to cracks and fissures. As we age there is a loss of natural oils.
Calluses and Corns: Increased friction and pressure can cause thickened skin.
Fat Pad Thinning: we have fat pads at the heels and balls of our feet that cushion our feet, protect the bones and tissues and help us absorb shock from the ground and these diminish over time.
Thinning Skin: The skin on the feet becomes thinner and less elastic with age, making it more susceptible to injuries and infections.
Nail Changes:
Thickening: Toenails often thicken and become more brittle.
Fungal nails: Toenails may change colour and are more likely to develop fungal infections. Approximately 10% of the adult population has fungal nails but this number jumps to 50% at the age of 70.
Reduced Blood Flow:
Reduced circulation can lead to conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), causing pain and slower healing of wounds to the lower limbs.
Bone and Joint Changes
Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, can develop causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the feet and ankles.
Bone Density Loss: Osteoporosis can make bones more fragile and susceptible to fractures.
Foot Deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes become more common with age due to changes in bone structure and joint alignment.
Soft Tissue Changes
Muscle Weakness: Aging can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and strength, affecting the feet and making balance and walking more difficult.
Tendon Stiffness: Tendons lose elasticity, leading to stiffness and a reduced range of motion.
Sensory Changes
Reduced Sensation: Nerve function can decline with age, leading to decreased sensation in the feet. This can increase the risk of unnoticed injuries.
Neuropathy: Conditions like diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling, and foot pain.
Mobility and Balance
Balance Issues: Decreased strength and sensory changes can impair balance, increasing the risk of falls.
Gait Changes: Alterations in walking patterns can occur due to pain, joint changes, or muscle weakness, which can lead to further foot problems and reduced mobility.
Tips for Managing Foot Health as We Age
Foot pain can be debilitating. As we only have one pair of feet, it’s important to take good care of them. Here are some tips for managing foot health as we get older.
Regular check-ups with you podiatrist to prevent common issues
Moisturise regularly to prevent dry skin and cracks
Keep feet clean and dry them well to prevent infections
Exercise to strengthen foot muscles and improve circulation can be beneficial.
Managing Chronic Conditions like diabetes and arthritis is crucial for foot health.
Wear supportive shoes that fit properly, have spacious toe box, arch support, firm heel counter and adjustable fastenings
The average person walks over 100,000 km in a lifetime, and our feet naturally show signs of wear and tear. By understanding these changes and taking proactive steps, you can maintain healthier feet and reduce the impact of aging on their overall well-being.
