Falls in older adults are a major health concern that can lead to serious foot and ankle injuries, reduced mobility, and loss of independence. A fall is defined as an unintentional descent to the ground or a lower level, often caused by a loss of balance or stability. As the body ages, changes in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and coordination can increase the likelihood of falling. These changes make it important to understand both the causes and the prevention of falls to support long term health.

Symptoms associated with falls may include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty walking. Many older adults experience foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains or fractures, after a fall. In some cases, individuals may feel unsteady even after the incident, which can lead to a fear of falling again. This fear may reduce physical activity, further weakening muscles and increasing the risk of future falls. Recognizing early warning signs such as balance issues or frequent stumbling can help prevent serious injury.

Several risk factors contribute to falls in older adults. Age-related muscle loss and decreased bone density play a significant role. Chronic conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, or nerve disorders, can affect balance and sensation in the feet. Medications that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in blood pressure can also increase fall risk. Environmental hazards such as poor lighting, loose rugs, and uneven surfaces add to the danger. Wearing footwear that does not fit properly or lacks support can further reduce stability and increase the chance of falling.

Preventing falls requires a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening exercises, proper footwear, and home safety improvements. Balance training and regular physical activity can help maintain coordination and muscle strength. Wearing well-fitted shoes with supportive soles can improve stability. Keeping living spaces free of clutter and ensuring proper lighting are simple but effective steps. Regular foot evaluations can also identify issues that may affect balance. If you have had a foot or ankle injury from falling or want guidance on prevention, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and 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 Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Numbness in the feet can develop from several causes related to nerve function, circulation, or underlying conditions. One common cause is peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves responsible for sensation, and can interfere with how the feet detect touch, temperature, and pain. The nerves play an important role in balance and protection, so when they are impaired, individuals may notice tingling, burning, or a reduced ability to feel the ground when walking. Causes include diabetes, prolonged pressure on nerves, injury, or poor circulation. Symptoms can develop gradually and may worsen over time, increasing the risk of unnoticed cuts or sores. A podiatrist can evaluate sensation and circulation through an examination ,and may recommend further testing, if needed. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause and protecting the feet. It also aims to improve function through supportive care and targeted exercises. If you have numbness in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

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 Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Non-diabetic foot problems are common and can affect comfort and daily activity. Foot odor is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat. Toe jam, or gunk, can build up between the toes and may lead to irritation or infection. Cracked heels develop when the skin becomes dry and splits, sometimes causing pain with walking. Additionally, friction blisters form when shoes rub against the skin, creating fluid-filled areas that can break open. These issues may seem minor, but they can worsen if ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the skin, nails, and foot structure to find the cause of foot pain and provide proper treatment. Care may include debridement, topical therapy, or footwear guidance. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.