As people age, even small changes in foot function can influence how they walk, stand, and maintain balance. Reduced flexibility, muscle weakness, or loss of sensation in the feet can make it harder to adjust to uneven surfaces, often leading to discomfort or instability. Chronic foot pain, whether from arthritis, deformities, or circulation issues, can cause people to alter their gait, which further increases the risk of falls. Wearing supportive footwear and targeted foot-strengthening exercises can improve stability and reduce pressure on painful joints. Podiatrists play an important role in assessing balance, identifying biomechanical problems, and recommending custom orthotics or footwear designed to restore comfort and mobility. If foot pain or unsteadiness is affecting your daily confidence, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for personalized evaluation and fall-prevention strategies.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
Utilizing a walker or cane
Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lemont, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pain on the top of the foot can make walking and wearing shoes difficult. It may result from overuse, tendon inflammation, arthritis, nerve irritation, or wearing ill-fitting footwear. Sometimes the discomfort begins gradually and worsens with activity or pressure from tight laces or shoes. A podiatrist can evaluate the source of the pain through a physical exam and imaging if needed, then create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Options may include rest, custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear to ease strain on the affected area. Addressing the problem early helps prevent further injury and restores comfort with movement. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or tenderness on the top of your foot, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lemont, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Fitness facilities encourage strength, balance, and overall well-being, but they can also be a common setting for lower extremity injuries. Ankles, feet, and knees are especially vulnerable during weight training, running, or high-intensity classes. Poor footwear, uneven surfaces, and improper form can all contribute to strains, sprains, or stress fractures. Even overuse from repetitive motion can cause discomfort that worsens over time. Listening to your body and using proper support are key to avoiding injury and maintaining long-term mobility. Early evaluation helps prevent small problems from becoming major setbacks. If you experience pain, swelling, or instability after exercising, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can assess the cause and provide effective treatment to help you return to your fitness routine safely and with confidence.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lemont, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
