As people age, they become more prone to foot problems that can affect mobility and comfort. Bunions are a common issue, where the big toe shifts inward, causing a bony bump that leads to pain and difficulty wearing shoes. Arthritis often develops in the foot joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort during movement. Corns form due to repeated pressure or friction, creating thickened areas of skin that can become painful. Additionally, heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis or thinning fat pads, makes walking uncomfortable. These conditions can result from years of wear and tear, poor footwear choices, or underlying medical issues. If you are elderly and have pain in any area of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat various foot conditions.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
People with bunions often struggle to find comfortable running shoes that do not put pressure on the affected joint. Bunions occur when the big toe shifts inward, causing a bony prominence at its base that can become irritated by wearing tight or narrow footwear. The best running shoes for bunions should have a wide toe box to allow natural toe splay and reduce friction against the bunion. Soft, flexible uppers can help accommodate the foot’s shape, preventing unnecessary pressure. Proper arch support and cushioning are also important, as they help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the forefoot. A well-cushioned midsole absorbs impact while running, which can minimize discomfort and prevent further stress on the bunion. Shoes with an adjustable closure system, such as laces or straps, provide a secure fit without constricting the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure and gait mechanics to recommend appropriate footwear, custom orthotics, or other treatment as needed. If you are a runner with bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.
You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.
Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe
Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
There should be little to no slipping at the heel
Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Walking shoes and running shoes are designed for different activities, offering unique features to optimize comfort and performance. Walking shoes are generally more flexible, with a cushioned sole that supports the natural rolling motion of the foot during walking. They provide stability and are ideal for low-impact activities. Running shoes have more substantial cushioning, shock absorption, and added support to handle the repetitive high-impact force of running. Running shoes also tend to be lighter and offer more flexibility in the forefoot for better toe-off. While it is possible to use one pair for both activities, having shoes designed specifically for each can enhance comfort, prevent injuries, and improve performance. Therefore, having both walking and running shoes is beneficial for those who regularly engage in both activities. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes while walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you find relief tips, and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired activity.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
