Foot exams are important for older adults, as aging often brings about various foot problems that can significantly impact mobility and increase the risk of falls. Over time, feet undergo changes such as loss of fat padding, reduced blood circulation, and structural alterations, making them more susceptible to conditions like arthritis, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, common age-related issues like diabetes can lead to neuropathy and other complications that exacerbate foot problems. Regular foot care becomes more critical with age, as maintaining foot health directly contributes to overall well-being and independence. If self-care becomes challenging, it is essential to seek assistance from caregivers or healthcare professionals to ensure proper hygiene and monitoring. Routine foot exams involve checking for signs of skin breakdown, infections, deformities, and circulation issues. A podiatrist may also assess gait and balance to prevent falls. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for comprehensive foot care, as they specialize in diagnosing and treating foot-related issues.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. The big toe is often affected, and the pain may become debilitating, some patients have difficulty in walking and completing daily activities. This condition can be triggered by factors such as genetics, obesity, and certain medical conditions. Diet plays a significant role in managing gout. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood like sardines and shellfish, should be avoided as they can increase uric acid levels. Additionally, sugary beverages and alcohol, particularly beer, can exacerbate gout symptoms. On the other hand, a diet rich in low-purine foods can help manage gout effectively. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce uric acid levels. Individuals who have gout often experience extreme pain and discomfort, especially in their big toe. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat this condition, and lead you to making correct food choices.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Children's feet go through various stages of development, each requiring specific care and attention. During the pre-crawling stage, infants have soft, pliable feet that need freedom to move and grow, so bare feet or socks are ideal. For newborns, shoes are not necessary, but soft, flexible booties can provide warmth. As babies start taking their first steps, known as the first walker stage, they need lightweight, flexible shoes that allow natural foot movement and provide protection. In preschool, children become more active, necessitating sturdy shoes that offer support and durability. By the time they reach school age, kids' feet have developed arches and require well-fitting shoes that support prolonged periods of walking and running. If you have questions regarding your child’s foot development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Chronic foot pain is more than just a nuisance, It can significantly impact your daily life and mobility. Trauma, whether from a sudden injury or repetitive strain, can lead to a variety of foot issues including sprains, strains, and stress fractures. Overuse injuries, common among athletes and those with physically demanding jobs, can result in conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Biomechanical factors, such as improper footwear or structural misalignment, can also contribute to chronic foot pain by causing conditions like bunions, corns, and neuromas. Underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, gout, and peripheral neuropathy, can result in foot pain and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, infections like athlete's foot or ingrown toenails can cause persistent discomfort if not properly treated. If chronic foot pain is limiting your mobility and interfering with daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam 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 Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.