Improving balance is an important way to reduce the risk of falls, especially as people age. Foot-related issues such as nerve damage, weakened muscles, and joint problems can disrupt balance and increase the risk of injury. Exercises that focus on foot strength and flexibility are helpful in maintaining stability. Finding supportive footwear that fits well can also make a significant difference by providing a stable base. A podiatrist can assess any medical conditions that affect your feet, such as fallen arches or neuropathy. Custom orthotics, certain exercises, or assistive devices can help to improve your balance. Scheduling regular foot check-ups is a good way to detect early signs of issues that might contribute to instability. Making small changes, such as decluttering walkways and ensuring adequate lighting, can reduce hazards at home. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, or at risk for falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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 North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. 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 Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thickened, leading to painful splits. Several factors contribute to this condition. Excess weight can put additional pressure on the heels, promoting dryness and leading to cracks. Reduced skin elasticity, often due to aging or lack of moisture, makes the skin less resilient. Wearing inappropriate shoes, such as those lacking adequate support or cushioning, can worsen the problem by failing to protect the heels. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can also increase the risk of cracked heels, as this puts strain on the skin. Additionally, genetics may play a role in an individual's susceptibility to this condition. Cracked heels can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can successfully treat this problem, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Caring for your feet is important to your overall wellness for several reasons. First, healthy feet support movement and balance, allowing you to stay active. Poor foot health can lead to pain and reduced mobility, which can affect your daily activities. Additionally, feet play a key role in maintaining proper posture. Issues like flat feet or bunions can cause misalignment and strain on your joints and muscles. Good foot care also promotes better circulation, ensuring that blood flow is optimal, which is vital for your overall health. Regular attention to your feet can help prevent common problems like calluses, corns, and fungal infections, reducing discomfort and potential complications. Moreover, feet can serve as indicators of other health issues, such as diabetes or heart conditions, so monitoring their health can help detect problems early. If you have foot problems or wish to enhance your foot care regimen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.