Proper foot care becomes increasingly important with age because the feet often experience changes in circulation, skin texture, joint flexibility, and sensation. Elderly individuals may develop dry skin, thickened toenails, and bunions. Hammertoes, swelling, or balance problems also can affect comfort and mobility. Reduced circulation and medical conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, may increase the risk of infections, ulcers, and slow healing wounds. Foot pain can make walking difficult, and may contribute to falls or decreased activity. Wearing shoes that are too tight, worn out, or lacking support can place additional stress on aging feet. A podiatrist can examine the feet for changes in skin, nails, circulation, and nerve function while identifying problems before they become severe. Treatment may include routine nail care, callus reduction, and supportive footwear recommendations. Care for fungal nails or arthritis may also be provided. Regular foot examinations are especially important for seniors with diabetes or poor circulation. If you are experiencing foot problems related to aging, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors of Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint, often causing pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. It can appear suddenly after a fall, a sports injury, or a twisting motion that places stress on the joint beyond its limit. Common causes include missteps on uneven ground, high-impact activities, or accidents that force the ankle out of position. Recovery depends on the severity of the fracture, but proper diagnosis is essential. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury with imaging tests, determine if the bones are stable, and guide treatment such as immobilization or surgical repair. Care is focused on restoring alignment and preventing long- term issues. If you think you have fractured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer a diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The feet are commonly affected because they contain many small joints that absorb pressure throughout the day. Many people notice swelling, tenderness, warmth, or aching in the toes, midfoot, or ankles, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. As the condition progresses, joint damage may lead to changes in foot shape, difficulty walking, and painful pressure points. Some patients also develop bunions, hammertoes, or instability that affects balance and mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate joint function, monitor structural changes, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and help relieve pressure that contributes to discomfort. Early treatment may help reduce complications and improve movement, over time. If you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or stiffness related to rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term form of arthritis that causes inflammation in the body. It often affects the spine, but it can also involve the feet. This condition includes inflammation where tendons attach to bone and can lead to heel pain. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, may become irritated and cause discomfort while walking. The Achilles tendon at the back of the heel can also become inflamed, leading to stiffness and swelling. Some people notice pain after rest or during the first steps of the day. Such ongoing inflammation may affect foot movement and balance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain and order imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, and targeted treatment to reduce strain. If you have foot problems as a result of ankylosing spondylitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our doctors from Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.