A skilled podiatrist like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos brings years of education and experience to the care of patients ranging from children to older adults. Each of these age groups has particular needs, and your foot doctor is able to meet all of them. Many older adults come to the My Chicago Foot Expert office under the mistaken impression that their foot pain is normal and unavoidable, yet nothing could be farther from the truth. No matter how old you are, your podiatrist can provide relief.
When you know that each of your feet contains 26 bones arranged in 33 delicate arches, it comes as no surprise that arthritis is one of the most common causes of foot pain. Almost half of the people aged 65 or older have been diagnosed with this common joint disease. Don’t let arthritis keep you from comfortably moving through your day. Your podiatrist has many treatment options available, including over-the-counter and prescription medications and custom orthotics to provide improved cushioning and support.
Diabetes is also common in older Americans, with a diagnosis rate of nearly 30%. In people with diabetes, blood glucose levels are not effectively managed. Complications can include kidney disease, vision issues, circulation problems that lead to diabetic ulcers, and deep wounds that are hard to heal. The best way to protect your feet and ankles from issues related to diabetes is by seeing your foot doctor at least once a year for preventative care and to schedule a visit immediately upon noticing any change to the appearance or shape of your feet.
Protect yourself from the falls that often lead to ankle sprains and foot fractures in older adults. Use assistive devices like walkers as recommended. Keep your home tidy and free from clutter on the floor. Ask your podiatrist about exercise options like gentle yoga and tai chi that are believed to help improve balance. If you take a spill, seek immediate treatment for severe pain. If your discomfort is mild, try 24 hours of at-home treatment with RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and over-the-counter medication. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, schedule a visit with your podiatrist.
Keep feet and ankles healthy at any age. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.