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Foot pain is common, but not a necessary part of aging. Disease,
years of wear and tear, ill-fitting or poorly designed shoes, poor
circulation to the feet, or improperly trimmed toenails cause many common
foot problems. The most obvious symptoms of foot trouble are pain and
limping.
Foot pain can force you to change the way you walk and make stresses
on the joints of your legs, hips and lower spine. Your feet are the
foundation for your entire body. Your whole body can overcompensate, which
can lead to back pain and even headaches.
Older or overweight individuals, people with diabetes, and serious dancers
and athletes are more prone to foot disorders than others are.
Improving blood circulation to the feet can help prevent problems.
Gentle massage and warm footbaths can be enjoyable and beneficial. Raising
the feet, standing up and stretching, walking and other forms of exercise
promote good circulation. On the other hand, exposure to cold temperatures
or water, pressure from shoes, long periods of sitting or smoking can reduce
blood flow to the feet. Even sitting with your legs crossed or wearing
tight, elastic garters or socks can reduce circulation.
Wearing comfortable shoes with adequate support is a must. Feet
often get larger with age. Always have your feet measured while shopping for
shoes. Just because you've always been one size, doesn't mean that it is the
right size anymore. You may need additional arch support as well. The upper
part of shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material to match the shape
of your foot. Soles should provide solid footing and not be slippery.
Leather shoes can reduce the
possibility of skin irritations and thick soles reduce pressure when walking
on hard surfaces. Select low-heeled shoes over high-heeled shoes. If pain
persists, consult a foot specialist. You may need to be fitted with shoe
inserts to correct and support your feet or do corrective exercises.
Take special care of your feet if you have diabetes. Check your feet
every day for cuts, blisters, red spots and swelling. Use a mirror to check
the bottoms of your feet or ask a family member for help if you have trouble
seeing. Have your doctor check your feet at every visit. A cut or sore that
is not treated can lead to loss of limbs. Call your doctor if a cut, blister
or bruise on your foot does not begin to heal after one day.
Fungal and bacterial conditions start in warm, dark, damp
environments --- which often fits the environment of your feet. To prevent
these conditions, keep your feet clean and dry, especially the area between
your toes. Expose your feet to air whenever possible but avoid walking
barefooted. If you are prone to fungal infections, you may want to dust your
feet daily with a fungicidal powder.
Itching and burning feet are caused by dry skin. Use mild soap
sparingly and a body lotion on your legs and feet every day. Do not use
lotion between the toes. Be careful with adding oils to the bath water; oil
can make the surface slippery and lead to falls.
Trimming toenails correctly is important. Trim them straight
across, but not too short. Cutting nails in corners or on the sides can lead
to ingrown toenails. File the edges with an emery board or nail file.
Treat your feet well; they need to last a lifetime.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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Uploaded Tuesday, November 27, 2007
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