Experiencing changes to your body as you get older is natural, but you may not be aware of how aging affects your feet. When you are in your twenties and thirties, your feet are at their strongest. The muscles begin losing their strength at this point, and the bones are thinning, which can lead to osteoporosis. Taking contraceptives, menopause, certain diseases, and thyroid issues can also affect the health of your feet. The fat pads on the soles of your feet will also decrease and can lead to metatarsalgia and calluses.

Common Foot Issues Caused by Aging

  • Dry skin–this will result in cracked heels, pain, and swelling.
  • Toenails–your toenails will become brittle and thick. This is worsened by disease. Your toenails are also more likely to be affected by a fungal infection.
  • Blood–your blood vessels will stiffen, and you will experience swelling. You can also lose circulation due to other issues that occur with age.
  • Bunions—these are common in feet over the age of forty.
  • Plantar fasciitis-–an inflammation in your foot. It makes itself known through heel pain.
  • Neuroma—Morton’s neuroma is an enlarged nerve. It causes numbness, pain, and burning in the ball of your foot and toes.

To protect your feet from aging as best as you can, you should wear proper footwear. A podiatrist may recommend orthotics to help strengthen your feet give them proper support. Avoid going barefoot, exercise regularly, and look after your skin by keeping heels moisturized.

At Podiatry Center of New Jersey, Dr. Russell Samofal, Dr. Dolan Chowdhury, Dr. Jaclyn Ramirez, Dr. Chris A. Obiarinze, Dr. Eric Freiler, Dr. Owen Morris, Dr. Farah Lakhram, Dr. Meltem Ates, Dr. Zakiyyah Waters, Dr. Ashley Kim, and Dr. Riddhi Shah treat ailments such as diabetic foot problems, pediatric foot conditions, toe deformities, arthritis, nail fungus, and pain just for a start. Located in 11 offices, our teams provide the best care for patients all across Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Ocean, Passaic, and the Union Counties. For each of your podiatry needs, contact our Wayne, NJ office at (973) 925-4111.