Dr. Tom Morris
Monarch Landing Medical Director
People don’t always realize just how much work their feet are doing. Studies show that more than 74 percent of people over age 65 have a history of foot and leg pain. Unfortunately, most of them don’t see a doctor until that pain interferes with daily activities. In this edition of “The Doctor Is In,” I’ll discuss how you can prevent foot problems before they occur.
Is the problem in your shoes?
While genetics play a part in foot problems, a more common culprit is chronic illness, particularly diabetes. The U.S. government estimates that at least 15 percent of people with diabetes develop foot ulcers or circulatory problems.
Diabetes aside, few things create as many foot problems as shoe choice. More women than men have foot problems for one simple reason: years of wearing pointy-toed or high-heeled shoes. Not only do ill-fitting shoes cause pain, they can lead to corns and bunions which, in severe cases, may require surgery.
Shoes that don’t fit affect more than just your feet. Your whole body suffers when you’re feet aren’t functioning properly. By all means, wear shoes that are comfortable and functional.
Over-the-counter solutions
Fortunately, there are many relatively simple treatments for foot problems. Among the most common are over-the-counter and prescription remedies that fight everything from muscle pain to nail fungus. Increasingly sophisticated foot pads and inserts provide some extra comfort and support.
On the more technical side, a new thermal-energy treatment is showing tremendous results in improving circulation, healing wounds, and lessening pain.