At Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care, we treat patients of all ages and are committed to providing the specialized care each of our patient population requires. For seniors, one major concern is falling. Falls account for the greatest number of fatal injuries to older people. It’s estimated that every 11 seconds a senior citizen is treated in an emergency room for a fall.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take yourself or for an older person you love to help reduce the risk of falling.
One major cause for patients falling is foot and ankle pain. Make an appointment at our Edison (732-204-6630), Monroe (732-204-6802) or Monmouth Junction (732-204-6945) office to schedule an examination with our podiatrists, Dr. Varun Gujral and Dr. Nrupa Shah. The foot doctor will monitor chronic podiatric problems like bunions, plantar fasciitis, and flat feet, which are progressive and can lead to increased discomfort as time passes. When your feet hurt, you are more likely to walk in an unnatural way, which can throw you off balance. Treating existing and new foot problems appropriately and promptly can prevent you from falling.
Another way to reduce your fall risk is by choosing good shoes. It’s essential that you wear styles that have wide, low heels and fit properly. Shoes that are too big or stretched out due to wear and tear can cause you to trip. Inspect shoes regularly and discard when they are worn out. Avoid styles that have thick rubber on the front of the toe, as these often get stuck on the carpet and other surfaces.
Be sure to get your eyes examined regularly as poor vision is a contributing factor in many falls. Have all your medications checked by your pharmacist or physician to be sure there are no potential interactions that could cause dizziness. If a new medication makes you feel lightheaded, confused, or blurry, tell your doctor right away.
A few small precautions can make a big difference in reducing your fall risk. If you have additional questions about falls or other senior podiatric issues, contact us.
