As we get older, our bodies go through numerous changes, and our feet are no exception. An average person will walk over 100,000 miles in a lifetime, so as we start to get older, we can expect to see changes in our feet!
Though they are often overlooked, our feet play an important role in maintaining our overall mobility and well-being.
The feet tend to undergo significant wear and tear over the years. So what can we do to care for our feet and maintain their health and function as we age? In this blog post, we will explore five essential ways to help your feet age well and highlight the benefits of each one.
Wearing the Right Size Footwear and Getting Regular Measurements
Many people assume that once we reach adulthood, our feet stay the same size. But in fact, as we age, our feet can change in size and shape due to various factors, such as weight fluctuations, changes in foot arches, and loss of muscle tone and elasticity.
One way to care for your feet is to ensure you’re wearing the right shoe size, as wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to foot problems including corns, calluses, and even balance issues. So it's crucial to wear properly fitting footwear and get your feet measured regularly, especially if you notice any discomfort or feel that your shoes have become too tight or loose.
Benefits:
Reduced risk of foot-related problems: Wearing the right size shoes can prevent common foot issues and promote better foot health.
Improved comfort and mobility: Properly fitting shoes ensure greater comfort, reducing the likelihood of discomfort and pain while walking or standing.
Enhanced balance and stability: The right footwear can significantly improve balance, reducing the risk of falls, which is especially important as we get older.
Wearing Orthotic Insoles
Orthotic insoles are shoe inserts designed to provide additional support, alignment, and cushioning for the feet. They can be either off-the-shelf insoles or custom-made.
As we age, the natural padding in our feet wears out, leading to reduced shock absorption and increased pressure on the joints. Orthotics can help alleviate these problems, offering
numerous benefits for ageing feet.
Benefits:
Alleviation of foot pain: Orthotic insoles provide extra cushioning and support, reducing discomfort caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis.
Improved alignment and posture: Properly aligned feet can positively impact overall body posture, reducing strain on other joints and muscles.
Enhanced shock absorption: Orthotics can absorb shock, minimising the impact of each step and reducing wear and tear on the feet and lower limbs.
Wearing Slippers Indoors
While it might seem insignificant, wearing appropriate indoor footwear is crucial for foot health. Walking barefoot or in unsupportive slippers indoors can lead to foot fatigue and discomfort, especially for individuals with foot conditions or diabetes.
Benefits:
Increased foot comfort: Supportive slippers provide cushioning and reduce strain on the feet, allowing them to recover after a day of activity.
Prevention of accidents: Slip-resistant slippers can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries, especially on smooth indoor surfaces.
Protection for sensitive feet: Diabetic individuals in particular benefit from wearing slippers that reduce pressure and the risk of foot injuries or infections.
Keeping the Feet Clean and Thoroughly Dried
Proper hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy feet, especially as we age and our skin becomes more susceptible to dryness and infections. Neglecting foot hygiene can lead to various issues, including fungal infections, athlete's foot, and bacterial problems.
Benefits:
Reduced risk of infections: Regularly washing and thoroughly drying your feet can prevent the buildup of bacteria and fungi, reducing the likelihood of infections.
Prevention of skin issues: Keeping the feet clean and dry can help prevent common skin problems such as dryness, cracked heels, and calluses.
Improved overall foot health: Proper hygiene contributes to the overall health and well-being of your feet, ensuring they remain comfortable and functional as you age.
Regularly Seeing a Foot Health Specialist
As with any aspect of our health, prevention or early intervention are important to maintain good foot health. Regularly visiting a foot health specialist can help identify and address
potential foot problems before they escalate.
Benefits:
Early detection of foot issues: Regular check-ups with a specialist can lead to the early detection of foot problems, preventing them from becoming more severe.
Personalised foot care: A foot health specialist can provide tailored advice and treatments based on your unique needs.
Peace of mind: Knowing that your feet are being cared for by a professional can provide peace of mind and confidence in your ability to maintain mobility and an active lifestyle.
Our feet are the foundation of our body, and caring for them as we age is essential for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. By wearing the right size footwear, using orthotic insoles, opting for supportive slippers indoors, practising good foot hygiene, and regularly visiting a foot health specialist, we can help our feet age gracefully and minimise the risk of foot-related problems. Doing these things will not only keep our feet happy but also contribute to our overall well-being in the long run. Remember, it's never too late to start caring for your feet!
If you have any questions about your feet, or about any of our treatments, please reach out to us - we would be more than happy to help or advise. You can call us on 01903 532159, email us on hello@comfootzone.co.uk or message us on the chat function on our website!
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