Common problems of ageing feet

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Tue, 23/09/2008 - 9:45pm

Ill fitting shoes often cause calluses and corns.

The answer to staying mobile and independent could begin with the feet. Neglecting this vital part of the body can lead to discomfort and problems with the knees, back and hips.

Common problems of ageing feet

Fortunately most problems associated with ageing feet can be treated or avoided successfully with good foot care and regular visits to a podiatrist.

Ageing feet can be prone to damage. As we age our feet lose the fatty padding that cushions and protects the feet.

Corns and calluses are caused by continuous pressure and friction to the feet. This pressure is commonly caused by ill fitting shoes, underlying structural problems of the feet or moving in a certain way.

Calluses

A callus appears as thickened hard skin on the foot. When we exert pressure on a particular area of the foot for too long, the skin hardens to protect itself. A callus can become painful when the foot is not relieved of underlying pressure.
Calluses commonly occur on the heel, side of toenails, top or balls of the foot.

Corns

A corn develops when the thickened skin becomes hard, painful and tender. A corn appears as a central core or cone shaped area under or surrounded by a callus.
Corns are often found on the side or top of toes. Corns can even occur in between the toes.

Treating corns and calluses

Corns and calluses will not go away by themselves and should be treated by a podiatrist. Don't try cutting calluses or corns at home.

Simply using home remedies, corn paint and plasters doesn't treat the underlying cause of the pressure. Corn paints can damage fragile skin. For people with diabetes this could result in skin breakdown and infection.

The safest and most effective way to treat a corn or callus is to consult a podiatrist.

Importance of nail care

Sometimes habits we formed years ago like cutting the toe nails incorrectly can lead to painful ingrown toenails and infection. Toenails can get thick with age and can be difficult to cut. People with poor vision or problems reaching the toes can find it especially difficult.

You will need a strong pair of nail clippers for thick or over grown nails. Toe nails should be cut straight across just below the end of the toe. File with an emery board or nail file in a downward stroke. Diabetics should have their nails cut by a podiatrist.

Cutting toenails incorrectly can lead to further problems, always ask a podiatrist to show you how.

Checking ageing feet

Checking the condition of the feet should be a part of any daily routine.

Some people will find it difficult to reach or see their feet and a family member may need to help. Hand held mirrors are a handy tool for inspecting the feet.

Pay extra attention to in between the toes and check for any changes in the feet such as:

• Discolouration
• Swelling
• Changes in temperature of the skin
• Sores, cracked heels, blisters
• Odour
• Corns and calluses
• Tingling, loss of sensation or pain.

(Australian Podiatry Council, 2008)

Get help from a podiatrist

A podiatrist can diagnose and assess your feet. Podiatrists treat common foot problems and can recommend the use of orthotics (customised inserts for shoes) and footwear.

The Australian Podiatry Council recommends seeing a podiatrist annually or 6 monthly if you have diabetes. All major private health funds cover podiatry. Medicare only covers patients with a history of diabetes or arthritis, so check with Medicare to see if you are covered. You do not need a referral for a podiatrist.

To find a podiatrist visit The Australian Podiatry Council.

References
The Australian Podiatry Council, 2008
Ageing and your feet
www.feet.org.au