AGING FEET MORE PRONE TO FOOT ISSUES

The foot is a complicated body part – home to 26 bones, says Neal Houslanger, DPM, a podiatrist in private practice at Houslanger & Kassnove Podiatrists in Patchogue, NY. This complexity and the heavy-duty wear-and-tear they endure over the years places a lot of stress and strain on our feet over the years. "Each bone needs to be in a specific place, but as we age, our bodies are always changing and usually not for the better," Dr, Houslanger says. 
 
mail?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpodiatrym.com%2Fpmphotos2019%2F1%2FPMNews15700.jpg&t=1547814255&ymreqid=84f2277d-e67f-7ce8-01d3-7a0014010000&sig=YkmvYjf0LnGYMV0MVqQiqw--~C
Dr. Neal Houslanger
 
 
One aspect of this process is that "the cells hold less water, which affects the collagen, tendons, and ligaments in the feet. Tendons get tighter and ligaments get looser." When the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones shift, that can lead to pain and bony growths, among other problems. In addition to less water in the cells, "our circulation diminishes, so our healing ability lessens" as we age, Houslanger says, making older adults "more prone to infections and other issues." As people are living longer, overuse and joint injuries in the feet are also becoming more common.
 
Source: Elaine K. Howley, U.S. News & World Report [1/16/19]
 
Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News.
 
Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics.

 

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CLINIC

416-465-8737

Toronto, ON Chiropodist Academy Foot and Orthotic

752 BROADVIEW AVENUE Toronto, ON M4K 2P1 

Across from the Broadview Subway | Professional Family Foot Care