This Is What Happens to Your Feet as You Grow Older...
Aging can take a particularly heavy toll on
your feet, as it does with the rest of your body. Given the great deal
of stress that we place on our feet over an entire lifetime, it's not
too hard to see why these problems end up occurring. Below, you'll find
seven of the most common age-related foot problems for you to be aware
of.
1. Hammertoe
Hammertoe is an abnormal bend in the joint of one or more of your toes
and is usually caused by long-term use of narrow shoes or high heels.
Hammertoes are also prone to calluses and corns, joint stiffness,
swelling, and pain. What's more, the only way to get rid of a hammertoe
is through surgical intervention. Toe pads, splints, and well-fitted
shoes can help to alleviate some of your pain, though.
2. Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) affects around 10% of men and 16% of women over the
age of 60. The ankle joint, subtalar joint, and the first
metatarsophalangeal joint are the three joints which are most commonly
affected. Common risk factors include obesity, hammertoe, bunions, or a
past foot or ankle injury. Another joint problem affecting older adults
is gouty arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder that can cause acute
and often debilitating pain, especially in the big toe.
3. Flat Feet
As your feet get older, the connective tissues in your feet, known as
ligaments, will start to stretch out, reducing the height of your arch
and causing flat-footedness. The pain experienced usually increases with
activity and is normally accompanied by swelling. Hip, knee, and lower
back pain are also common for flat-footed people. Since this condition
can alter the angle of your foot, you may experience a loss of stability
or an increased risk of ankle sprains.
4. Shortened Achilles Tendon
Your tendons may start to lose water as you age. If this occurs, you
might end up with a more flat-footed gait, since you will be less able
to flex your ankle, toes, and midfoot. This is particularly true of the
Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Unless
you routinely stretch your Achilles tendon, you could be at a greater
risk of a tear or rupture.
5. Dry Skin
Dry skin, particularly on the soles of your feet, is an issue which
could require a daily application of moisturizer in order to prevent
cracking and infection. If left untreated, cracked skin around your
heels may make walking or even standing upright difficult tasks. What's
more, deep cracks may put your feet at a heightened risk of infection,
which could potentially lead to a serious infection known as cellulitis.
6. Circulatory Issues
Edema, a medical term for swelling, is frequently associated with poor
circulation, leading to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities.
Edema is normally associated with congestive heart failure, liver
disease, and kidney disease, conditions which are common in aging
populations. Circulatory obstruction may also lead to venous edema,
which usually affects only a single leg. Cardiovascular disease,
particular drugs, and hormonal changes can also cause swelling in both
of your legs.
7. Toenail Changes
Toenails tend to thicken and turn more brittle as you grow older, which
makes them more difficult to cut and maintain. Nails may also start to
discolor, crack, and form uneven ridges and layers. While a good nail
care routine may improve the nail's appearance, it might not completely
prevent these aging-related changes.