The Orthofeet Blog

Foot problems are a natural part of the aging process. They arise from the normal daily wear and tear of joints as well as thinning skin that becomes more fragile due to dryness and a loss of elasticity. We typically begin to see foot problems in our 40s and 50s, with some of the problems getting more severe or numerous as we age. Below is a list of the most common foot problems seen when we age, as well as a look at some treatment options for each condition. 1. Arthritis   Arthritis is often a reality of aging. Osteoarthritis is what we think of as wear-and- tear arthritis: that inevitable consequence of years of stress on the joints. The ankle joint, subtalar joint, and the big toe joint (first MTPJ) are three joints that frequently develop arthritis. Symptoms associated with and hammer toes and bunions may worsen over the time due to the progression of arthritis within those toe joints. Another joint problem that can develop in older adults is gouty arthritis. Gout is a metabolic disease that often manifests as intense arthritis symptoms at the big toe joint. 2. Circulatory Changes and Foot and Ankle Swelling   One of the most common foot and ankle problems associated with aging is swelling. The cause of the swelling can be elusive, especially if it's not associated with an injury. Leg vein problems are a common cause of swelling and usually occur in a single limb at a time. Cardiovascular disease, certain medications, and hormonal changes are possible causes of swelling that occur in both limbs. 3. Bunions   Bunions are a result of years of added pressure on the balls of the feet that forces the toes out of alignment and eventually causes the big toe joint to stick out.This creates a not only unattractive bump, but a painful one as well. Women who wear pointy-toed shoes frequently and for a long period of time commonly suffer from this foot problem. Treatment options vary depending upon the severity of the bunion and the amount of pain it causes, but include switching to roomy shoes with a wide toe box such that alleviate pressure on bunions, using OTC non-medicated bunion pads, taking pain medication, applying ice to the bunions after a long day of standing, wearing padded inserts, and as a last resort, surgery. 4. Hammertoes   Hammertoes are a deformity of the toe in which the muscle or ligament surrounding the toe joint is imbalanced. This causes the middle joint of the toe to bend and get stuck in a claw-like position.The bad news is that without proper treatment, hammertoe will get progressively worse and might require surgery to fix it. The good news is that it can be treated with simple exercises such as picking up marbles with the afflicted toe, stretching the toe manually several times a day, and wearing footwear with low heels and a deep toe box, like Orthofeet shoes for hammertoes that are designed with special technology that helps alleviate the problems caused by hammertoes. If the pain gets very sever, your podiatrist can use a cortisone injection for pain relief. Surgery is the last option and is only considered when the hammertoe cannot be corrected non-surgically. 5. Morton’s Neuroma   Morton’s neuroma is caused by a thickening of the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes. Neuromas most often appear between the 3rd and 4th toes and can be extremely painful. Severity of symptoms will determine treatment, such as orthotic insoles with arch supports and shoe pads to help reduce pressure on the nerve, steroid injections, and as a last resort, surgery such as decompression surgery or removal of the nerve.  6. Heel Pain   Heel pain is another common foot problem that generally begins in the 40s and 50s. One of the most common causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the thick strand of tissue running along the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. It may also correspond with an increase in physical activity or a change in footwear. Initially, the pain starts off in the morning but then passes fairly easily. As the condition worsens, every step can become painful. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medication, icing and stretching the heel, physical therapy that stretches the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, steroid injections, orthotic inserts, or orthotic shoes. 7. Calluses  Calluses, which are not to be confused with corns, are a result of too much pressure or friction on the bottom of the foot. Ill-fitting shoes are a common culprit for this foot problem. Frequently wearing shoes or sandals without socks can also cause calluses. Generally, calluses are treated by gently scraping and/or trimming the build-up of hard tissue. Wearing properly fitted, supportive shoes with good shock absorbing soles can also help alleviate pressure on the calluses and prevent future build-up. 8. Corns  Unlike calluses, corns usually form on the top of the feet or toes over a bone or joint. Corns are typically dense and have even greater thickness at their center. They can cause discomfort and make walking or running with shoes uncomfortable. There are several different types of corns, but most can be treated in the same way. Treatment options include wearing better fitting shoes such as shoes with a wide toe box to minimize pressure on toe joints, using moleskins to cushion the sore and reduce direct friction on the skin, wearing good orthotics, which when fitted with the proper shoe, can help redistribute weight and alleviate pressure, trimming the thick areas of the corn (this should only be done by a professional) and as a last resort surgery. 9. Degenerative Diseases    Certain degenerative diseases, such as osteoarthritis can start to manifest in your 40s. Symptoms include pain, stiffness and tenderness in the joints accompanied by loss of flexibility and possibly a grinding sensation during movement. Osteoarthritis requires special treatment, so a doctor should be contacted as soon as possible.  10. Achilles Tendinitis    Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury and most commonly occurs in runners who have suddenly started running longer distances and/or more frequently. “Weekend warriors” (middle-aged people who run, play tennis or basketball only on the weekends) also frequently get this foot problem. The pain is due to an injury of the Achilles tendon – the band of tissue connecting the calf muscles of the lower, back leg to the heel bone. The good news is that it’s fairly easy to treat. Anyone suffering from Achilles tendinitis should begin by reducing the activity levels and stretching and strengthening the calf muscles. Additional treatments include icing the area after exercising or when experiencing pain, elevating the foot to reduce swelling, taking anti-inflammatory medication and wearing shoes with a soft padded collar to relieve pressure on the back of the heel and alleviate pain. 11. Diabetes    With diabetes, risk increases with age and patients who have diabetes often experience neuropathy, or decreased sensitivity to pain. Consequently, injuries can go undetected and result in infection and a diabetic ulcer. In addition, poor blood flow and oxygenation to the legs can affect the healing process. It is critical that diabetics receive proper care for all aspects of their illness including diabetic neuropathy. The doctor may suggest special shoes designed specifically for the diabetic foot. 12. Nail Fungus    Fungal infections occur as a result of too much fungi under, in, or on the nail. Moist, warm environments are where fungi thrive. Fungal infections are most effectively treated with oral medication prescribed by a doctor. Topical creams are not usually recommended simply because they are rarely effective. For diabetics who have a nail fungus, it’s especially important to see a doctor, as a nail fungus can cause serious complications later on if not treated. 13. Clogged Sweat Glands or Parakeratosis    While perspiration is an important skin function that helps regulate body temperature, sweat glands that become clogged can cause problems. Parakeratosis is a general term applied to different skin conditions that block sweat glands. The bumps parakeratosis cause can sometimes be confused with corns, but they are two entirely different problems. The bumps created by this skin condition can make walking and even wearing shoes very painful. In addition, the lesions can later become cancerous if not treated. To treat parakeratosis, certain medications might be prescribed and the lesions excised. Managing the problem includes limiting sun exposure, washing your feet thoroughly and regularly and wearing soft, breathable shoes.

Your knees and hips are the largest joints in your body. They are responsible for supporting your weight as you stand and walk. If you are experiencing chronic pain in your hips, knees, or even in your lower back, shoulders and neck, there may be a connection between the pain and the way your feet function. Walking is good for you, right? Absolutely. But beware of poor walking habits that can cause or exacerbate knee and hip problems. On the positive side, however, a safe and smart walking regimen can help improve joint problems, not to mention how good it is for your overall health. Knee pain  Watch your feet. If you are prone to foot problems, such as hypermobile feet (when the joints in and around the feet move more than they should) or fallen arches caused by over pronation, your gait may be compromised. And this change can cause unnecessary stress on the knees, resulting in painful injuries. Research how to prevent fallen arches and join paint.  Joint pain caused by a foot problem or a runner's knee should be avoided by paying close attention to how your body moves. The knee is made to bend only in one direction—facing straight forward.  When the foot over-pronates, the leg rotates inward toward the opposite leg. This causes the knee to flex and extend while pointing inward and not in the normal direction, which puts stress on the knee.  People who suffer from osteoarthritis pain have worn cartilage on the inside (medial) area of their knee joint. Research is being done to determine how walking differently can help manage this pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, studies are finding that pointing your toes slightly outwards (about 7°) when you walk will shift pressure to the outside (lateral) part of the knee, relieving the pain radiating from the inside of your knee joint. Ask your doctor if this change in the way you walk can help your situation. Runners knee (which is not exclusive to runners) is identified by a throbbing pain on your kneecap. The impact of your foot hit the ground causes your kneecap to rub against the femur bone. If you have a misaligned kneecap or previous injury, your knees are more vulnerable. Other causes are weak thigh muscles, soft knee cartilage, or flat feet. Consider investing in a knee brace to support the affected joint and reinforce the ligaments in your leg to prevent severe pain. Also, explore arch support inserts for men and women shoe inserts to further support your feet and ensure you get the right level of comfort and stability tailored to your needs. Hip pain  Pain from bursitis is felt on the outside of your hip, whereas arthritis is felt on the inner hip near you groin. Relief from each requires different walking treatments. Repetitive stress (including excess walking or running) can cause the bursa that cushions your hip to become inflamed. Another cause of bursitis is exercising without proper warm-ups and cool downs, which are a vital part of any program. You need to follow a very slow walking regimen when recovering from a bout of bursitis. This involves gradually increasing the frequency and length of your walks. As with osteoarthritis in general, the cause of hip or knee arthritis can be genetic. It can be a hereditary or a congenital problem with an improperly formed hip joint. Hip arthritis can also develop from an injury or trauma to the hip area, or stress from excess weight or activity. Seek pain relief by contacting a physician who can provide you with information regarding physical therapy to treat any affected joint. The problems caused by flat feet overpronation, which were discussed for knee pain, are also true for the hip joint. When the foot pronates, the leg rotates inward and the hip can become unaligned. This condition puts stress on the hip and on the entire leg muscles. How to help your knees and hips  Any problem with the foot or ankle resulting in a compromised posture or gait can lead to knee and hip pain. Examples of common foot problems that can lead to poor posture and irregular walking patterns include: Plantar fasciitis, which can lead to chronic heel pain and/or arch pain Nerve pain or numbness in the foot (such as tarsal tunnel syndrome) Research the best shoes for Morton’s neuromas to relieve your pain. Bunions and bunionettes (big-toe versus little-toe side, respectively) Explore the best shoes for bunionettes to suit your needs. Excessive foot pronation (rolling in) or supination (rolling out) Find the best podiatrist-recommended shoes for supination When you experience pain and you are diagnosed with a dysfunction in the foot or ankle, it may be possible to reduce the knee and hip pain by improving foot function, using proper footwear and orthotic insoles.  A Harvard medical school health publication advises that exercise is an important treatment for arthritis. It improves the strength and function of the afflicted area(s). In many cases, a moderate walking plan is recommended to alleviate such pain. It is considered a low impact activity that strengthens the supporting muscles, relieving the pressure on the joint. Be sure to walk on a smooth, soft surface such as a track or treadmill. Your doctor or physical therapist can advise how much walking is best for you. An extra bonus is walking will help with weight loss, which takes some stress off your joints. When you compensate for pain by limping or walking with an abnormal gait, other joints can suffer wear and tear. Your rheumatologist, orthopedic doctor or physical therapist can help determine if changing your walking gait could help reduce pain. Many PTs will video patients as they walk on a treadmill and then review their walking habits to determine what pain reduction improvements can be made. You can make a conscience effort to minimize limping by holding your body straight without swaying and maintaining and even stride. The Right Shoe Regimen  Healthy shoes play a significant role in knee and hip pain management. Here are a few tips on orthopedic shoes and why you should wear them. Never wear heels over two inches high. Heels increase the risk of knee joint degeneration. However, not all flat shoes are good for your feet. Flats that do not provide any arch support can lead to knee, hip, and back pain. Get the right fit. Tight shoes can cause limping from foot pain. Oversized shoes can also impair your gait. Either way, you’ll be putting unnecessary stress on your knees and hips. Orthopedic sneakers & tennis shoes provide cushioning and help control over pronation. They also relieve the ball of the foot, which helps arthritic pain in the hip, knee, foot or ankle. Check out the article overpronation vs underpronation to learn more about these conditions. Replace your shoes as needed. When the supporting cushioning becomes worn, it is no longer helpful. If knee or hip pain is due to your foot function, the proper footwear along with orthotic insoles can be a very effective way to relieve symptoms. Invest in quality shoes that are specifically made for your condition. OrthoFeet provides the ability to browse shoe selections that meet your needs. Explore our range of footwear designed to offer comfort and support. Whether you're looking for women's wide shoes, arch support shoes, men's walking shoes, shoes for flat feet, or plantar fasciitis shoes, each Orthofeet collection is tailored to meet specific needs, helping you find the right fit for your feet.

Ugh. Something wicked is rubbing against your shoe as you walk, but is it a corn or a callus? Believe it or not, these sometimes-painful occurrences are nature’s way of protecting the soft tissue in your foot. How? By making the outer surface tough and hard. This protects your foot from excess pressure and friction and is called hyperkeratosis (an abnormal thickening of an outer layer of skin). People with bony toes or soft skin tend to suffer from corns and calluses more frequently, but they are ultimately common in all types of feet. Both conditions are often painful, but not always. In most cases, they result from poorly fitting shoes. Shop Now for Shoes for Calluses Here’s a quick way to tell the difference between a corn and a callus: Corn associate corns with your toes. Corns are a build up of hard skin, usually found near the bony area of a toe or even between toes. They often look waxy or discolored and are usually round in shape. The probable cause: pressure from your shoes, which rub against the toes when they don’t fit properly. Corns are also frequent when you wear shoes without socks. Hard corns and soft corns  you’ll find hard corns at the top of the smaller toes or on the outer side of the little toe. These are the typical spots where poorly fitting shoes tend to rub most. Soft corns often happen between the toes; they stay soft because the sweat between your toes keeps them moist. Don’t let soft corns live too long – they can become infected. How to remove corns Never try to remove them with a sharp object, like a scissors, razor or knife. Instead, use a gentler and more sensitive pumice stone or emery board to remove the built-up tissue. Always move the pumice stone or emery board in one direction only. You can also try cushioned or medicated pads, which are sold over the counter. Always recommended: seeing an experienced podiatrist to do the job. Calluses This is also a build up of hard skin, but instead of on the toes, calluses are found on the underside of the foot. Calluses are considered a relatively normal dysfunction in the life of your feet, but they also can be caused by improperly fitting shoes. How to remove calluses  First, take a warm bath or shower. Directly afterward, use a pumice stone to remove the tissue buildup. If you’re not cut out for this kind of work, see an experienced podiatrist. How you can prevent corns and calluses wear shoes that fit properly and always wear socks that wick away perspiration. Keep your feet dry.  The type of shoes that are probably giving you corns and calluses: tight or poorly fitting shoes are more than likely always the main cause. Select shoes that reduce pressure and rubbing on the toes and forefeet. Make sure your shoes allow plenty of room for your toes, and that feature soft uppers and low heels. Recommendation: an orthotic shoe with extra depth and supportive insoles that absorb shock and alleviate the pressure from these sensitive and vulnerable spots.