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 Franklin Harry, DPM of Best Foot Forward. 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 offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot wounds should never be ignored, because even a small injury can become a serious problem if it does not heal properly. A foot wound may include a cut, blister, skin tear, or sore that affects the skin and underlying tissue. These wounds can develop from pressure, friction, injury, or another foot condition. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet have a greater risk because they may not notice an injury right away. Common warning signs include redness, swelling, and drainage. If left untreated, a wound may become infected or take much longer to heal. Receiving prompt professional foot wound care can help reduce the risk of complications and support healthy healing.

A podiatrist carefully evaluates the wound to determine its size, depth, and overall condition before creating a personalized treatment plan. They also check for signs of infection or poor circulation that could slow the healing process. Treatment may include removing damaged tissue, applying specialized dressings, and reducing pressure on the affected area. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust treatment when needed. Professional wound care is especially important for people with diabetes and others who have a higher risk of delayed healing or infection.

Early treatment gives foot wounds the best chance to heal while helping prevent more serious complications. Delaying care may allow the wound to worsen. This increases the risk of infection and damage to surrounding tissue. Regular evaluations by a podiatrist support healing and help protect long-term foot health. Whether a wound is minor or more advanced, professional care provides the treatment and monitoring needed for recovery. If you have a foot wound or notice signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage linked to prolonged blood sugar changes, and the feet are often affected first. Early signs may be easy to ignore, such as tingling, burning, pins-and-needles sensations, or unusual numbness in the toes. Some people feel sharp, shooting pain, while others notice their feet seem less sensitive to heat, cold, or minor injuries. This loss of feeling can be especially concerning because cuts, blisters, or pressure spots may go unnoticed, and worsen over time. Muscle weakness in the feet can also change the way a person walks, leading to balance problems or foot shape changes. Because these symptoms may develop gradually, many people do not realize nerve damage is progressing. Early evaluation can help identify the problem and reduce the risk of serious complications. If you have unusual foot symptoms and diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, particularly between the toes. This condition, also known as tinea pedis, develops when fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, like sweaty shoes and locker rooms. It is extremely contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces. Athlete’s foot can affect anyone, not just athletes, and may become chronic if left untreated. Understanding this condition is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing the spread of infection to other areas of the body.

Symptoms of athlete’s foot often begin with itching, burning, and stinging sensations between the toes. The skin may appear red, scaly, or cracked, and in some cases, peeling or flaking may occur. Some individuals develop small blisters that can be painful and may lead to further skin breakdown. As the infection progresses, the affected area may become dry and thickened. In more severe cases, the infection can spread to the soles or toenails. This can cause further discomfort and complications that require prompt attention.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing athlete’s foot. Wearing tight, non-breathable footwear creates a warm environment where fungi can grow easily. Walking barefoot in public places like pools, gyms, and locker rooms also raises the risk of exposure. Excessive sweating, poor foot hygiene, and not changing socks regularly contribute to moisture buildup. People with a weakened immune system or underlying health condition may be more susceptible. Identifying these risk factors can help guide prevention and reduce recurrence.

The primary cause of athletes' feet is exposure to dermatophyte fungi that invade the outer layer of skin. These organisms thrive in damp conditions and spread through contaminated surfaces or personal items. Preventive care includes keeping feet clean and dry, wearing moisture wicking socks, and choosing properly fitted shoes that allow ventilation. Avoiding shared footwear and practicing good foot hygiene are also important. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot,  it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.