Geriatric Foot Care in Maryland
As we age, healthy feet become increasingly important for staying independent and active. Aging feet experience decreased fat padding, reduced flexibility, and a higher risk of conditions like arthritis and diabetes. At Foot Centers of Maryland, our podiatrists provide specialized geriatric foot care for seniors in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD, because your feet should not hurt just because you are older.
Request an AppointmentThe Unique Challenges of Aging Feet
Older adults have many of the same foot problems as younger patients, but their conditions are often complicated by poor circulation, arthritis, bursitis, neuritis, or other inflammatory conditions. Thinning skin heals more slowly, nails become thicker and harder to trim, and reduced sensation can allow small injuries to go unnoticed. Many of these problems can be relieved with modern foot care and proper footwear.
Common Foot Problems in Seniors
- Arthritic Pain: Stiffness and chronic pain in the foot and ankle joints. Learn more about arthritic foot conditions.
- Thick and Fungal Nails: Nails that are difficult or unsafe to trim at home.
- Dry, Fragile Skin: Skin prone to cracking and tearing.
- Neuropathy: Loss of sensation that leads to unnoticed injuries. See peripheral neuropathy.
- Loss of Padding: Pain and bruising in the heel and ball of the foot from fat pad atrophy.
- Bunions and Hammertoes: Deformities that make shoes uncomfortable and increase fall risk.
Comprehensive Wellness and Maintenance Visits
Our geriatric care focuses on prevention, comfort, and safety:
- Routine Maintenance: Safe, professional trimming of thick or ingrown nails and reduction of corns and calluses, procedures that can be unsafe for seniors to perform themselves.
- Vascular and Neurological Screening: Regular checks for poor circulation and neuropathy for early detection.
- Pressure Management: Custom orthotics and therapeutic shoe recommendations to redistribute pressure and accommodate deformities.
- Pain Management: Conservative treatments for chronic pain from arthritis or gout, plus options such as Leneva for thinning fat pads.
Reducing the Risk of Falls
Foot pain, poor balance, numbness, and unsupportive shoes all increase the risk of falling. Our podiatrists evaluate your feet, footwear, and gait to identify problems that may affect your stability and recommend solutions that help you move with more confidence.
Care for Seniors with Diabetes
Seniors with diabetes face a higher risk of ulcers and infection. Regular exams through our diabetic foot care program help catch problems early and protect your mobility.
Geriatric Foot Care FAQs
Why do my feet hurt more as I get older?
Aging feet lose fat padding and flexibility and are more affected by arthritis, circulation problems, and nerve changes, all of which can cause pain.
Can a podiatrist trim my toenails?
Yes. We provide safe, professional nail care for thick, fungal, or ingrown nails that are difficult or unsafe to trim at home.
How can foot care help prevent falls?
Treating foot pain, recommending supportive shoes and orthotics, and identifying balance and sensation problems all help reduce fall risk.
Does Medicare cover routine foot care?
Medicare may cover certain foot care for qualifying patients, such as those with diabetes or circulation problems. Our staff can help check your benefits.
What shoes are best for seniors?
Look for shoes with good support, a wide toe box, cushioned soles, non-slip treads, and secure closures such as laces or straps.
How often should seniors see a podiatrist?
It depends on your health and foot condition. Patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or thick nails often benefit from regular maintenance visits.
Is foot pain just a normal part of aging?
No. Many foot problems in older adults can be relieved with modern foot care and proper footwear.
Keep Your Feet Healthy at Every Age
Stay active and independent with expert senior foot care. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.