Aging can significantly impact foot health by changing the structure, strength, and resilience of the feet. Over time, the supportive tissues weaken, and natural shock absorption decreases, leading to increased stress on bones and joints. This process can contribute to common conditions such as fallen arches, bunions, corns, and cracked heels. These issues are not only cosmetic but can also affect balance, walking ability, and overall comfort, making early recognition and management important.

Common symptoms associated with aging foot problems include persistent discomfort, visible deformities, thickened skin, and dryness. Fallen arches may result in foot fatigue and altered walking patterns. Bunions can cause pressure and irritation, especially when wearing tight shoes. Corns often develop in areas of repeated friction, leading to localized pain. Cracked heels may become deep and sensitive, sometimes leading to infection if not properly cared for. These symptoms can progress if left untreated and may limit mobility.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to these conditions. Years of repetitive use can weaken ligaments and alter foot alignment. Unsupportive or il- fitting footwear can accelerate structural changes. Weight gain increases pressure on the feet, while decreased circulation and skin elasticity make the skin more prone to dryness and cracking. Medical conditions such as arthritis can further impact joint health and mobility. These combined factors create an environment where foot problems are more likely to develop with age.

In summary, aging-related foot conditions are common but manageable with proper care and awareness. Addressing symptoms early and maintaining good foot health habits can help prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you or an elderly person in your care notice changes in the feet or have ongoing discomfort, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

If you need your feet checked, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. This type of arthritis causes inflammation, which results in swelling and irritation inside the joints. It affects the feet and ankles because they contain many small joints that support body weight. Early symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the toes, forefoot, or ankles. The condition commonly affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Rheumatoid arthritis can make standing uncomfortable and can limit daily activities.

As the condition progresses, inflammation can damage the joints and surrounding tissues. This can change the shape of the feet and toes. Some people develop bunions, hammertoes, or toes that drift out of position. Walking can become difficult because the joints lose flexibility and stability. Pain can increase when standing for long periods and while walking. Some people develop thickened areas of skin because abnormal pressure is placed on certain parts of the feet. Swelling in the ankles is another common problem. These changes can make comfortable shoes harder to find and can affect balance.

A podiatrist plays an important role in identifying foot problems related to rheumatoid arthritis. Diagnosis includes a physical examination, a review of symptoms, and X-rays or other imaging to look for joint damage. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and improving foot function. A podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or padding to reduce pressure on painful areas. Care can also include monitoring joint changes and addressing deformities before they become severe. Early diagnosis can help reduce the risk of significant joint damage and loss of mobility. Proper foot care can help patients remain active and comfortable. If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a common foot condition that causes a bony bump to form at the base of the big toe. As the condition develops, the big toe gradually shifts toward the smaller toes, which can change the shape of the foot and make certain shoes uncomfortable to wear. Bunions often run in families because inherited foot structure can increase the likelihood of developing them. Common symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness around the joint. Many have difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably. Although genetics play a major role, wearing narrow, tight, or high-heeled shoes can place extra pressure on the big toe joint and may worsen symptoms over time. Other risk factors include flat feet, arthritis, and activities that place repeated stress on the front of the foot. Without treatment, a bunion may become larger and more painful. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition and recommend footwear modifications, padding, or surgery when necessary. If you have bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Turf toe is an injury involving the joint at the base of the big toe, usually caused when the toe bends too far upward during sports or sudden forceful movement. Mild cases involve stretching of the surrounding soft tissues, causing tenderness, mild swelling, and discomfort with push-off movements. Moderate injuries involve partial tearing, often leading to more noticeable swelling, bruising, reduced movement, and pain during walking. Severe cases involve significant tissue damage or complete tearing, making weight-bearing difficult and causing marked pain, instability, and substantial swelling. Because the big toe plays an important role in balance and forward movement, even less severe injuries can affect activity and recovery, if ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of injury, recommend imaging when needed, and guide proper treatment to support healing. If you have pain in your big toe after sports or sudden foot injury, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.