Health and Fitness ? Foot Care and Aging ? Health and Fitness

Aging gracefully should also involve staying healthy and as active as possible in old age. There are some unavoidable body changes that occur as you age but healthy lifestyles can help prevent problems associated with aging like mobility problems due to issues with feet and legs.

Various impairments of the lower body are the leading cause of mobility issues in older people. In fact the human foot can be called a mirror of general health where systemic problems like diabetes, arthritis and circulatory disease are often first detected in the feet. Foot problems can lead to further complications like knee, hip and lower-back pain all off which undermine mobility.

Fortunately there are many things older people can do improve their foot and general health.

Keep Walking

Walking is beneficial for both physical and mental health. To remain comfortable while walking it is important to be sure to choose a lightweight good quality shoe with less cushioning on the ball of the heel to allow the heel to sit closer to the ground and offer more stability. The front should be flexible without sacrificing support. If at all possible try to shop for shoes in the late afternoon as feet swell during the day and can be larger in the evening. Ensure you have a professional fit and your wear the socks you would normally wear with it. Your toes should have plenty of room to move.

Diabetes

The feet can often be the first indicator of diabetes. Diabetes can also hit the extremities really hard and every year there are 65,000 lower limb amputations a year due to the disease. To include a podiatrist in your diabetes care can reduce the risk of amputation up to 85 per cent.

Changes in skin colour, swelling, numbness, pain and open sores that heal slowly, ingrown or fungal toenails and bleeding corns and calluses can all be early indicators of more serious health problems.

If you suffer from diabetes inspect your feet as often as possible to look for the above signs. Try to wear thick socks that do not rub or chafe and try never to go bare foot even in your own home.

Arthritis

Symptoms of arthritis can include swollen joints, pain or tenderness, redness or heat in joints, limited movement, stiffness, and skin changes like rashes or growths. Arthritis is known to affect the structure and function of feet. A podiatrist can often diagnose arthritis before anyone else and treatment can include physical therapy, exercise and medication. Regular check-ups are vital to managing the condition.

General

It is always important to wear socks without seams as well as having well fitted shoes. If you have corns or calluses it never a good idea to cut them with a knife or scalpel doing so can cause infections. Instead use over the counter medication to treat the area. Bath your feet daily in warm water with some soap. Trim your nails straight across and if you notice redness swelling or cracks see your podiatrist.

Taking care of your feet can make ageing a little easier and healthier.

Click here for more information on?Foot Problems, and?Insoles for Shoes

Source: http://medicaltips.biz/2011/09/10/foot-care-and-aging/

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