As people age, they may experience a range of physical changes, and foot health can become a particular area of concern. Mobility and overall well-being are closely linked to the condition of one’s feet. Podiatry surgery and medicine is a specialized field dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. For the elderly, this branch of medicine provides targeted care to manage age-related foot problems and maintain mobility.
What Is Podiatry?
Podiatric medicine is a branch of medicine treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. A podiatrist is a medical specialist who completes training in a podiatric medical school and is qualified to diagnose and treat a wide array of conditions affecting this part of the body. Their expertise covers everything from common skin and nail problems to complex bone and joint disorders. Podiatrists can contribute to comprehensive healthcare, particularly for older adults who may face multiple health issues that affect the feet.
What Conditions Does It Treat?
Podiatrists manage a broad spectrum of foot and ankle ailments that are common in the elderly population. Age can contribute to the development or worsening of certain conditions. Arthritis frequently affects the small joints of the feet and ankles, leading to pain and stiffness. Diabetes is another condition that can have serious implications for foot health. It causes nerve damage and reduced blood flow, which increases the risk of ulcers and infections.
Other common issues addressed by podiatrists include nail disorders like ingrown toenails, which can be difficult for older individuals to manage on their own. Structural problems like bunions, which are bony bumps at the base of the big toe, and hammertoes, an abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe, can cause discomfort and difficulty with footwear. Podiatrists diagnose these conditions through physical examinations and imaging tests to develop a proper treatment plan.
What Is Podiatry Surgery and Medicine?
The services offered within podiatry are comprehensive, ranging from conservative, non-invasive treatments to complex podiatry surgery. A podiatrist provides routine foot care, which is particularly beneficial for elderly patients who may have underlying health conditions. This can include trimming thickened or distorted toenails to relieve pressure and pain. They also prescribe and fit custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts designed to correct abnormal foot function and provide support.
For more severe conditions, a podiatrist may recommend medical or surgical interventions. They can prescribe medications to manage pain or address skin conditions. When conservative treatments are not sufficient, surgical options may be available. Podiatric surgeons perform procedures to correct deformities like bunions and hammertoes. For patients with diabetic foot complications, a podiatrist provides wound care and performs procedures to prevent or manage ulcers and infections.
Meet With a Podiatrist
For older adults, maintaining foot health is directly related to preserving their health and mobility. A podiatrist can provide specialized assessments and treatments tailored to the unique needs of an aging individual. A consultation with a podiatrist allows for the early detection of potential problems, which enables proactive management and personalized care plans. Regular visits can help manage chronic conditions and address acute issues, contributing to overall health and comfort.
