If you are an older adult experiencing heel pain, Dr. Nancy Jagodzinski and the team at Ankle & Foot Center of Fox Valley of Naperville, IL, are committed to helping you find relief and stay mobile.
Heel Pain and Aging
Pain in the heels can occur at any time and at any age. However, older adults face some changes that increase the likelihood of developing such pain. Dr. Jagodzinski and the team at Ankle & Foot Center of Fox Valley of Naperville, IL, explain why heel pain is so common as we age and how it can be relieved.
Your Feet and Aging
Like anything else, the components of the feet tend to wear down as we age. They’ve supported you through every day and every movement, so it’s not unusual that they aren’t as fit and healthy as they once were.
One of the components that is a common target is the plantar fascia. It’s a long, thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your feet and supports your arches. It also connects your toes to your heels. As it withstands pressure – whether that’s sudden force or pressure that has built over time – the fascia develops tears and becomes inflamed. This issue is referred to as plantar fasciitis and is a very common cause of pain in the heels.
Another issue as we age is that circulation is often impacted by diabetes or issues with the cardiovascular system. And we tend to lose elasticity as we age. All of this can impact the joints and soft tissues in the feet. Gaining extra weight can also lead to pain.
Managing Heel Pain with Aging
Though this pain is common, you don’t have to let it take over. With a few tips, you can reduce or eliminate the pain you feel in your feet and lower legs.
- Wear shoes that fit properly and provide the right arch support.
- Ask your podiatrist about custom orthotics to ensure proper weight distribution.
- Stay active with low-impact activities, like swimming and walking.
- Lose excess weight.
- Take care of your general health and manage any health conditions.
- Prop up your feet each day to give them a rest. They’ve earned it.
For help managing or eliminating heel pain, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jagodzinski and the team at Ankle & Foot Center of Fox Valley of Naperville, IL, by calling (630) 778-7670 today.
