Preventing falls is an important part of protecting mobility and independence for older adults, and foot health plays a direct role in balance and stability. Painful feet, stiff ankles, weak calf muscles, reduced sensation from nerve damage, and deformities like bunions or curled toes can make walking less steady. Wearing safe footwear can help lower this risk by keeping the feet secure and improving contact with the ground. Shoes with a firm heel collar, a broad and slightly beveled heel, textured soles, and laces or straps can improve control during walking. Thin, firm midsoles may also help people better sense the surface beneath their feet. Shoes that are loose, worn down, backless, or higher than one inch at the heel can increase the chance of slipping. A podiatrist can examine the feet, identify problems affecting balance, and recommend appropriate care or footwear options. If you are concerned about falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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 The Foot Center. 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 office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is a painful foot condition that affects the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones located beneath the base of the big toe. These bones help absorb pressure and assist with movement during walking and push off. When they become inflamed, pain can develop around the ball of the foot, especially under the base of the big toe. Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain while walking, standing, or bending the toe, along with swelling and tenderness in the area. Sesamoiditis is often caused by repetitive stress, high impact activities, or increased pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend activity modification, provide protective padding or orthotics, and develop a treatment plan to reduce inflammation. If you have pain under your big toe, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet occur when the arch does not lift properly, causing the entire sole to touch the ground and placing extra pressure on the feet and ankles. This can begin in childhood or develop later from tendon problems like a tight Achilles tendon or weakness along the inside of the ankle. People with flat feet may feel aching in the arches, stiffness, or fatigue after long periods of walking or standing. Some notice the ankles leaning inward or calluses forming from added friction. A podiatrist can evaluate the arch, check tendon strength, and determine how the flat feet affect foot movement. Treatment options include orthotics to support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce strain, along with guidance on shoe choices. The podiatrist can also discuss surgery if the bones or tendons need correction. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from The Foot Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.