Items filtered by date: October 2024

Swollen feet are a common issue among the elderly and can arise from various underlying causes. One significant factor is congestive heart failure, which occurs when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the extremities. Additionally, certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure or diabetes, can contribute to swelling as a side effect. Edema, a condition noted for fluid retention in the tissues, is also prevalent among older adults and can result from kidney problems or prolonged immobility. Early identification can lead to effective management strategies, improving comfort and overall health for elderly patients. If you are elderly or you are taking care of an elderly person who has swollen feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can diagnose the cause and provide treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors 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 offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Managing ankle arthritis can be significantly aided by incorporating specific foot exercises into your routine. Ankle pumps are particularly beneficial, and are done by flexing and pointing the foot repeatedly. This can help to improve circulation and reduce stiffness. Another helpful exercise is ankle rotation, which involves gently rotating the foot in a circular motion, promoting flexibility and easing joint pain. The ankle alphabet exercise also proves effective. By using your foot to write the letters of the alphabet in the air, you engage various ankle muscles and enhance mobility. These exercises help maintain joint function, alleviate discomfort, and improve overall ankle health. If you have arthritis in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and management techniques. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Golf, while often seen as a low-impact sport, can still lead to various foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive motions and uneven terrain. Common injuries include ankle sprains, which occur from missteps on uneven ground, and plantar fasciitis, resulting from the constant walking and pressure on the feet. Stress fractures can develop in the metatarsal bones due to repetitive impact, especially in golfers who walk the course frequently. Tendonitis, particularly Achilles tendonitis, can arise from overuse or wearing poor footwear, leading to inflammation and pain. Golfers may also experience issues like neuromas, where nerve tissue between the toes becomes irritated, causing pain or numbness. To prevent these injuries, proper footwear with arch support should be worn. If you experience foot pain from playing golf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and treatment, ensuring a swift recovery and return to the course.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.