4 Important Geriatric Foot Care Treatments
Geriatric foot care treatments can be beneficial to the elderly. If you are currently in need of geriatric foot care services, then your next step is making an appointment with an experienced podiatrist. A podiatrist is a health care professional who has specifically trained to treat, diagnose and treat patients who are experiencing foot problems, ankle problems, as well as leg problems that are directly connected to foot and/or ankle problems. Podiatrists are also known for rehabilitation abilities, as an experienced podiatrist can treat conditions that are considered to be abnormal.
About geriatric foot care
Geriatric foot care services differ from regular foot care services. Older people’s feet simply have more wear and tear, which means they are more susceptible to injury and even deformity. These age-related foot problems can lead to people experiencing pain and potentially cause a person to lose some of their mobility. The following list includes four of the more important foot care treatments for older adults.
Toenail trimming
While it can be difficult for aging adults to properly trim a toenail, it is indeed necessary for their good foot health. The recommended toenail trimming procedure for older adults includes first soaking the toenails, sanitizing the nail clippers and then trimming the toenails straight across. This helps to prevent an ingrown toenail.
Diabetic foot care
It is essential for aging adults who have been diagnosed with diabetes to pay close attention to the health of the feet. Diabetes is a health condition that can damage the blood vessels in the feet, which makes it harder for any wounds to heal. This means even a blister can turn into a serious infection. Diabetics should always wear socks and shoes and should perform exercises to promote good circulation in the feet.
Fungal infections
When aging adults have a fungal infection in one or both feet, it means that there is an infection taking place underneath the toenail. If not treated, the infection will eventually spread. This will cause even more foot-related problems. It is necessary to visit a podiatrist for treatment to address fungal infections. Using over-the-counter options do not often work. Common signs include a discoloration, thickening or a deformity in a toenail.
Flat feet aka fallen arches
Flat feet is a condition that mostly occurs in older adults. The term is used to describe a situation in which the arch of one’s foot is not as it is supposed to be when they are standing up. This abnormal arch is associated with knee pain. It is necessary for any aging adults who has or thinks they have this condition to seek professional treatment.
Call now for a geriatric foot care appointment
Your feet are very important to your overall health. It is necessary for you to take proper care of your feet. If you are currently experiencing problems that are affecting one or both of your feet, visit your podiatrist. You will first be evaluated so you can understand the foot care treatment options that are available to you.