Certain Foot & Ankle Problems Tend to Increase as You Get Older

As you get older, you are more likely to develop foot and ankle conditions. Still, by making an effort to see your foot doctor and taking proactive steps for your foot health, you can avoid many conditions altogether and prevent future complications.

Some foot and ankle problems that often increase in number and severity as you get older include the following:

➔   Increases in various arthritic conditions— Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are the two most common types of arthritis caused by gout also rearing its ugly head. You can avoid severe joint pain caused by gout by maintaining a healthy diet low in purines.

➔   Balance and ankle stability problems—Systemic conditions like peripheral artery disease and diabetes can cause muscle weakness balance problems that can lead to dangerous falls. Properly fitted footwear with custom orthotic inserts and braces can help prevent falls and improve your overall spinal alignment.

➔   Skin and toenail conditions—Skin lesions tend to increase with age, and since cancerous growths can resemble things like moles and warts, you should make sure to have them inspected by your foot doctor. Fungal conditions like athlete’s foot and fungal toenails also tend to occur more frequently as you age. Cutting edge laser treatment is fantastic for treating difficult fungal toenail conditions.

You may be experiencing age-related problems with your feet and ankles. See your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ (in Mercer County), is a board-certified podiatrist providing state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options for all foot types ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities. From hammertoes and bunions to diabetic foot problems and sports injuries, you can rest assured that Dr. Ricketti and his staff will get you back on your feet as fast as possible. Please contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Call 609-587-1674.