As people age, their feet undergo changes that can affect comfort, balance, and mobility. The skin may become harder and drier as collagen decreases. Changes can also occur in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues of the feet. The size and shape of the foot may change, which can affect how shoes fit. Foot pain is common among older adults and may make walking more difficult. Conditions such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, and nerve damage can create additional foot concerns. Arthritis may also contribute to pain or changes in foot structure, making regular elderly foot care important.

Foot problems in older adults are associated with reduced mobility and a greater risk of falls. Common concerns include thickened toenails, calluses, and corns. Dry skin, ulcers, and foot deformities may also be discovered during an examination. Some older adults have difficulty managing foot care because they cannot easily reach their feet. Footwear is important because feet can become broader with age. Shoes that do not fit properly are associated with foot pain and deformities. A professional foot examination can identify problems and can also evaluate circulation and sensation.

A podiatrist can provide foot care for older adults by examining the skin, nails, and structure of the feet. The evaluation may include checking circulation, sensation, and tenderness. A podiatrist can identify problems such as nail disorders or painful calluses and determine appropriate treatment. Foot ulcers and signs of infection require prompt professional attention. Podiatric care may also include recommendations for appropriate footwear or orthotics. Regular evaluation can help address foot problems that interfere with walking and support continued mobility as a person ages. If foot pain, skin changes, or difficulty walking is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. 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 office located in Canton, GA . 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. It can cause itching, discoloration, and cracks in the skin. These changes often appear between the toes but can develop on other parts of the foot as well. The infection may cause skin to look dry or scaly, making it easy to confuse with other skin problems. Foot psoriasis can create similar symptoms, including scaling and discoloration. Because the two problems may look alike, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. Using the wrong treatment can allow symptoms to continue or become worse.

One important difference is that athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus, while psoriasis is related to the immune system. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another, unlike psoriasis. The location and appearance of symptoms may provide clues, but these features do not always make the cause clear. Athlete’s foot often produces cracking or peeling between the toes. Psoriasis may affect other parts of the body in addition to the feet. When skin changes continue, or the diagnosis is uncertain, professional evaluation can help determine what is actually causing the problem.

A podiatrist can examine persistent skin changes on the feet and determine whether athlete’s foot or another condition may be responsible. Since fungal infections and psoriasis require different approaches, identifying the correct cause can guide appropriate care. A podiatrist may evaluate the location and appearance of affected skin while considering other symptoms. Further testing may be appropriate when the diagnosis is unclear. Professional care is especially valuable when itching, cracking, or discoloration continues despite previous treatment or begins interfering with comfort. Receiving the correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary treatment and help address the underlying cause of the skin changes. If you have ongoing symptoms that may indicate athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running shoes are more than a comfort choice. The right pair supports your feet while matching your running style and surface. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly or match your activity can contribute to foot and ankle injuries. Common problems include blisters, arch pain, and stress injuries. Symptoms may begin as soreness after running and become persistent. Runners who increase mileage quickly or have foot mechanics concerns may face greater risk. Worn-out shoes can reduce cushioning and stability.

Choosing running shoes starts with considering where you run. Paved paths are firm, so road-running shoes with cushioning and a stable base can provide suitable support. Hard-packed dirt requires traction and durable construction. Trail-running shoes are designed for uneven terrain and offer traction, protection, and stability. Additionally, cross-training shoes work well for gym workouts involving lateral movement or strength exercises, but they may not provide enough cushioning for distance running. A proper fit should allow comfortable toe movement without heel slipping.

If pain develops, a podiatrist can evaluate your feet, shoes, and walking pattern. Treatment depends on the injury and may include activity modification, wearing supportive footwear, or targeted care. The podiatrist may recommend replacing worn shoes and adjusting training surfaces. A gradual return can help symptoms improve. For significant injuries, diagnostic imaging may determine whether a tendon, ligament, or joint has been affected. Early evaluation can prevent a problem from becoming longer lasting.

The best running shoe should match your foot needs, training activities, and surface. Pay attention to comfort, fit, and signs of wear. Replace shoes when support declines rather than waiting for pain. If foot or ankle pain develops while wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on how to choose running shoes that are right for you. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps the foot point downward and plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendon injuries range from irritation and small tissue damage to a complete tear, called a rupture. A rupture can happen when the tendon is suddenly placed under intense stress. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Some patients feel or hear a pop when the tendon tears. A complete rupture can make it difficult to push off the injured foot or stand on the toes of that leg.

Achilles tendon injuries can occur during activities that involve sudden starts, stops, or changes in direction. Running and jumping can also place significant force on the tendon. A rupture sometimes occurs in people who participate in sports only occasionally. Age can affect the tendon, and certain medications can increase the risk of injury. A podiatrist can ask how the injury happened and examine the foot, ankle, and lower leg. The examination can include checking tenderness, swelling, and ankle movement. The podiatrist can also test how well the Achilles tendon is working. Imaging tests can help determine the location and extent of an injury when more information is required.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the Achilles tendon injury. A podiatrist can provide or coordinate care designed to protect the tendon and restore function. Treatment can include immobilization, and other forms of medical care. A complete rupture can sometimes require surgery, depending on the patient's health and activity level. A podiatrist can also monitor healing and determine when it is appropriate to increase activity. Rehabilitation can focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and normal movement. Proper evaluation is important because continuing activity with an injured Achilles tendon can interfere with recovery. The goal of treatment is to support healing and help the patient return safely to normal activities. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.