Foot Health Tips for Aging

Keep Them Walking
Studies show that care for a bedridden patient costs much more than care for an ambulatory patient. In their private practices and in foot clinics, podiatric physicians are providing services designed to keep older people on their feet, and they serve in hospitals and nursing homes across the country.
Records indicate that amputations and other forms of surgery due to infections of the feet, many brought about by diabetes, have been significantly reduced in recent years because of early diagnosis and treatment. Further reduction in this area is a goal of Healthy People 2010, a US Department of Health and Human Services campaign endorsed by podiatric physicians, to encourage understanding and application of preventive medical practices. 

Foot Health Tips

• Properly Fitted Shoes are Essential;
  An astonishing number of people wear shoes that don't fit right, and cause serious foot problems.
   
• A Shoe with a Firm Sole and Soft Upper is Best for Daily Activities 
   
• Shop for Shoes in the Afternoon; Feet Tend to Swell During the Day 
   
• Walking is the Best Exercise for Your Feet 
   
• Pantyhose or Stockings Should be of the Correct Size and Preferably Free of Seams 
   
• Do not Wear Constricting Garters or Tie Your Stockings in Knots 
   
• Never Cut Corns and Calluses with a Razor, Pocket Knife, or Other Such Instrument;
  Use Over-the-Counter Foot Products Only with the Advice of a Podiatrist

• Bathe Your Feet Daily in Lukewarm (not hot) Water
  Using a mild soap, preferably one containing moisturizers, or use a moisturizer separately. Test the water temperature with your hand.
   
• Trim or File Toenails Straight Across

• Inspect Your Feet Every Day or have Someone do This for You
  If you notice any redness, swelling, cracks in the skin, or sores, consult your podiatrist.
   
• Have your feet examined by a DPM at least twice a year.

Copyright 2008, American Podiatric Medical Association, Inc.