Download NOTE: This article is property of the American Podiatric Medical

NOTE: This article is property of the American Podiatric Medical Association. Use of this article for any
means of distribution, production, or promotion is strictly limited to APMA members in good
standing. Any edits made to this document must be limited to the portions highlighted in yellow.
Making changes to non-highlighted portions is strictly prohibited. Contact Brielle Day with any
questions at [email protected].
Foot care an important factor in healthy aging
For today’s baby boomers, it’s more important than ever to stay healthy and active as they age. While
growing older causes some unavoidable body changes, more boomers are focusing on healthy lifestyles
that can help them prevent problems associated with aging such as mobility issues related to the feet
and legs. Impairment of the lower extremities is a leading cause of activity limitation in older people,
according to the US National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
“Foot problems are a health concern that can lead to further complications like knee, hip, and lowerback pain, all of which undermine mobility,” says [FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME], DPM, a podiatrist at
[PRACTICE NAME] and member of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). “The human foot
has been called the mirror of health. Systemic problems often related to age, such as diabetes, arthritis,
and circulatory disease often can first be detected in the feet.”
Fortunately, boomers can do a lot to maintain and even improve their foot health. APMA offers the
following advice to keep your feet pain-free.
Keep walking
Walking offers many benefits for both physical and mental health. If your feet hurt, however, you may
find yourself less willing to get in the daily walking that’s good for your overall well-being.
To keep your walking regimen comfortable, choose a good-quality, lightweight walking shoe with
breathable upper materials like leather or nylon mesh. The heel counter should be firm, and the shoe
heel should have less cushioning in order to position the foot’s heel closer to the ground for stability.
The front of the shoe should offer adequate support but also be flexible. For a list of footwear that has
been awarded APMA’s Seal of Acceptance, visit www.apma.org/seal.
Shop for shoes in the late afternoon, because feet swell throughout the day, and have both feet fitted
professionally. Wear the type of socks you intend to wear while walking and be sure the shoe fits snugly,
but not tightly, over the sock. Your toes should have plenty of room to move around.
Deal with diabetes
“Diabetes symptoms often appear in the feet first, and the extremities can be hit hard by this chronic
disease,” says Dr. [LAST NAME]. “In fact, diabetes complications lead to more than 65,000 lower-limb
amputations each year.” Including a podiatrist in your diabetes care can reduce the risk of amputation
up to 85 percent. Learn to recognize warning signs that often appear in the feet, including changes in
skin color, swelling, numbness, pain, open sores that heal slowly, ingrown or fungal toenails, bleeding
corns and calluses, and dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heels.
If you have diabetes, inspect your feet daily for cuts, bruises, sores or changes to the toenails. Wear
thick, soft socks without seams that could rub or cause blisters. Always have new shoes fitted properly
and never go barefoot, not even in your own home.
Manage arthritis
Arthritis can affect the structure and function of your feet. Common symptoms in the feet include joint
swelling, joint pain or tenderness, redness or heat in joints, limited movement, early-morning stiffness,
and skin changes, including rashes and growths.
Podiatrists are often the first to diagnose a patient’s arthritis. Treatment can take many forms, including
physical therapy, exercise, and medication. Regular check-ups are vital to managing the condition
successfully.
General foot health
In addition to shoes that fit properly, it’s important to choose socks, pantyhose, or stockings that also fit
well. If you have corns or calluses, never cut them with a razor, pocket knife, or other sharp instrument.
Consult a podiatrist and only use over-the-counter foot products if he or she advises it. Bathe your feet
daily in lukewarm water with a mild soap that contains moisturizers, or use a separate moisturizer after
your bath or shower. Trim or file toenails straight across and inspect your feet every day. If you notice
redness, swelling, cracks in the skin or sores, see your podiatrist.
[FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME], DPM, is a podiatrist at [PRACTICE NAME] in [CITY, STATE]. Call [PRACTICE
PHONE] or visit [PRACTICE WEBSITE] to make an appointment. Visit www.apma.org to learn more about
foot health and care.