Foot Pain: What It Could Mean and How to Improve It
Your dad’s been walking gingerly for a week. He brushes it off as just having sore, aching feet at the end of the day. You’ve noticed he doesn’t walk as much and sits far more than he should.
You’re concerned for good reason. It could be nothing, but foot pain is not something he should be ignoring. Several things cause foot pain and many are easily corrected.
The Type of Arthritis Known as Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints. It’s often the joint of the big toe that gout affects the most. If your dad has excruciating pain in his big toe, he could have gout and should see a doctor.
If he has gout, a diet that avoids red meat, organ meat, and shellfish is important. Avoiding alcoholic beverages is also important.
Improperly Fitting Shoes
If your dad’s shoes do not fit properly, he could be causing himself foot pain. Improper arch support may strain the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Shoes that are too tight can cause painful blisters. Getting fitted for shoes and looking at inserts that support his pressure points is a good start to fixing the issues.
Long Toenails
Are your dad’s toenails too long? If they are, they may be digging into the skin of neighboring toes. He may be developing ingrown toenails that are both painful and can become infected and need medical attention. He should see a podiatrist to make sure his toenails are trimmed properly.
Sores and Ulcers
If your dad is a diabetic, he needs to be very careful about foot care. If he gets a sore, it may not heal quickly or properly. A resulting infection can be painful and lead to serious health issues if he doesn’t have the ulcer or sore cleaned and bandaged.
He needs to wash his feet daily, dry them thoroughly, and make sure they’re moisturized. When he’s moisturizing them, he should look for blisters, cuts, and scrapes that could become infected and cause pain.
Ask your dad’s doctor about seeing a podiatrist. If there are problems with his feet, a podiatrist can diagnose them and help with treatments that ease the pain. Your dad may need help around the home if the foot pain is severe.
Elder care services for foot care, transportation, appointment scheduling, and mobility are all things that may benefit your dad. Talk to our elder care specialist about having someone available to help your dad walk around his house and yard, get to and from medical offices, and care for his feet during and after a shower.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elder Care Services in Warner Robins GA please contact the caring staff at Angels of Mercy Private Homecare Services, Inc. today at 478-745-5111.
Angels of Mercy Private Homecare has been providing in-home care services since 2002 throughout the Macon and Middle Georgia Area.
Angels of Mercy Private Homecare Services provides in-home care that improves the lives of the clients. Our services help them maintain the highest possible level of independent living. We provide In-home private duty care and care management services for seniors throughout the Middle Georgia area.
Our CNA (certified nursing aides), caregiver, and companion services allow our clients to age in the place where they feel most comfortable and secure - at home. Combine our Home Care Services, with our Geriatric Care Management component, and we provide the most comprehensive assistance for the Middle Georgia areas seniors.
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