As we age, our feet go through changes like thinning skin, reduced cushioning, and decreased circulation, making them more vulnerable to pain, dryness, and injuries. Conditions like arthritis, bunions, and toenail problems are also more common in older adults. Proper foot care is essential to maintain mobility and overall health. Elderly individuals may struggle to care for their feet due to limited flexibility or vision. Family members and caregivers can help by checking for signs of issues like sores, swelling, or changes in skin or nail appearance. Regularly moisturizing, trimming toenails properly, and ensuring comfortable, supportive footwear can prevent problems. A podiatrist plays a vital role in elderly foot care by diagnosing and treating issues early. They can provide professional nail care, manage chronic conditions, and recommend orthotics to support aging feet. If you are a senior or helping to take care of one, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for care.

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 Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . 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 our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Limb salvage surgery is a medical procedure aimed at preserving a limb that may otherwise require amputation due to severe injury, infection, or complications from conditions such as diabetes. In diabetic limb salvage, the primary goal is to prevent amputation by addressing issues like diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and poor circulation that are common among individuals with diabetes. The procedure typically involves cleaning and debriding infected tissue, improving blood flow through vascular surgery, and sometimes reconstructing damaged bone or soft tissue. In some cases, the surgeon may use skin grafts or other techniques to promote healing. By preserving the limb, limb salvage surgery allows for better functionality and quality of life. Early intervention and ongoing care are essential for a successful outcome, as untreated diabetic complications can lead to more severe consequences. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition and discuss the limb salvage procedure with you.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a deformity that occurs when the big toe and its connecting joint shift out of alignment, often resulting in a bony bump at the base of the toe. A bunion, also referred to as hallux valgus, can cause pain, redness, and swelling in the big toe joint, particularly when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Over time, the joint may become increasingly enlarged, and complications like bursitis, limited motion, or osteoarthritis can develop. Diagnosis is typically made through a podiatrist's examination and may include imaging scans to assess the extent of joint damage. Treatment of bunions often focuses on relieving pressure and discomfort through orthotic devices, wider footwear, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the misalignment. A podiatrist can provide personalized care to address symptoms, improve mobility, and prevent further progression of your bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ignoring foot pain can have serious consequences for your balance, mobility, and overall foot health. Persistent pain often signals an underlying issue that, left untreated, may worsen over time. Conditions like stress fractures, heel pain, and psoriatic arthritis are common sources of foot pain and can severely impair foot function if not addressed. Even minor discomfort can cause changes in your gait, leading to strain in other areas of the body, like the knees, hips, and back. Determining the cause of foot pain is essential for effective treatment, as each condition requires a different approach. Addressing foot pain early can help you maintain balance, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of chronic issues, keeping you active and pain-free. If you suffer from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.