Falls are a significant concern for older adults, often resulting from a combination of factors such as muscle weakness, balance issues, and environmental hazards like uneven surfaces or poor lighting. Health conditions, medications, and vision impairments can also increase the risk of falling. The fear of falling can create a cycle of anxiety, leading to reduced activity and further physical decline. This fear often results in avoidance behaviors that limit mobility and social interaction, ultimately impacting overall well-being. Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of falling is essential. Engaging in strength and balance exercises can help improve stability, while education about preventing falls can empower older adults to navigate their environments safely. Falling can seriously impact the feet and ankles. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury as a result of falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and fall prevention tips.

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 the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 offices located in Gilbert and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can significantly affect the feet, leading to various debilitating symptoms. Individuals may experience persistent pain and swelling in the joints of the toes and the midfoot, making it difficult to walk or stand comfortably. Stiffness is another common symptom, often more pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause deformities, such as bunions or hammer toes, altering the foot's shape and function. Patients may also notice warmth or redness around affected joints, indicating inflammation. Fatigue and a general sense of malaise can accompany these physical symptoms, further impacting daily activities. If you have any of the above symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 the foot specialists of Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 Gilbert and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy affects the feet by damaging the nerves that carry signals to the lower extremities. Such nerve damage can result in numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and pain, which often begins in the toes. As peripheral neuropathy progresses, people may experience a loss of sensation in their lower extremities. This makes it difficult to detect injuries or temperature changes and can increase the risk of foot sores or ulcers. Muscle weakness or balance issues may develop, leading to instability or difficulty walking. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, which may include nerve conduction studies, electromyography, or a physical exam. In this way, a treatment plan to manage peripheral neuropathy symptoms, prevent further complications, and improve foot health, can be developed. If you experience foot problems related to neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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