Foot disorders in the elderly population are common due to natural aging, changes in biomechanics, and the long-term effects of chronic conditions. As people age, their feet may lose strength, flexibility, and cushioning. This process increases the risk of developing arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, and poor circulation. Biomechanical changes can alter walking patterns, leading to instability and discomfort. These issues can impact mobility, independence, and overall well-being. A podiatrist can assess the feet, diagnose underlying problems, and provide personalized treatment, including custom orthotics and footwear recommendations. If you are experiencing any foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Two conditions that can cause foot pain in child runners are Sever’s disease and Iselin’s disease. The first condition, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, affects the growth area at the heel where the Achilles tendon inserts into the bone. It causes heel pain that worsens during running, tenderness under the heel, and sometimes limited ankle bending. Sever's disease often emerges during rapid growth or when training intensity increases suddenly. The second condition, Iselin’s disease, involves pain at the base of the fifth metatarsal, caused by repetitive stress and tension on the growth plate. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area. Both conditions are linked to overuse, tight muscles, faulty foot alignment, and wearing improper or worn‑out footwear. A podiatrist can evaluate your child’s foot structure, gait, and shoe fit to determine a solution. If your child has sustained a foot injury from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

The shoes we wear influence how we walk, balance, and move through daily life. In early years, flexible shoes that allow natural movement can help support developing feet. As we age, footwear with proper arch support, cushioning, and stability becomes more important. Poor shoe choices can contribute to joint strain, foot deformities, or falls, especially in older adults. Over time, unsupportive or ill-fitting shoes may alter gait patterns and affect posture, leading to discomfort in the knees, hips, or back. Choosing the right footwear can help preserve comfort and movement ability from childhood into later years. It is not only about style or fit, it is about supporting long-term mobility. If you are experiencing discomfort or noticing changes in how you walk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Haglund's syndrome, often called a pump bump, is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. This condition can lead to irritation of the surrounding tissues, often caused by pressure from wearing rigid shoes or high heels. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, high arches, and frequent wearing of poorly fitting footwear. Symptoms may include heel pain, swelling, redness, and a noticeable bump at the back of the foot. A podiatrist can help by recommending proper footwear, custom orthotics, and stretching exercises to relieve pressure and reduce inflammation. If you are experiencing heel pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to explore treatment options and prevent further irritation.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. 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)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

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 offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.