Seniors are, more than any other age group, prone to bone and muscle injuries. This happens because with age their muscles lose mass and become weaker. Another reason is due to balance issues and vision impairment, so the elderly often experience falls. Luckily in most of the cases, minor injuries don’t require medical attention, and they heal on their own. In order to give you more insight on this type of issue, here are the most common foot injuries in older adults.
Most Common Foot Injuries in Older Adults
Neuromas
If older adults continue to wear shoes with high heels or boots that are too tight, they will create pressure on the nerves between the toes. This condition is better known as Morton’s neuroma. This neuroma can cause the elderly to feel numbness and tingling, but it can also increase into an ache or even severe pain. The easiest way to relieve the discomfort caused by Morton’s neuroma is to apply ice to it. But the best way for seniors to avoid this state is to avoid wearing high heels or tight shoes.
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Bunions
When the joint connecting the big toe to the foot starts shifting outwards, it creates a bulge. When this happens if you need something to blame, you should look in the direction of high heels or narrow toes in your shoes. Another factor that needs to be taken into account is heredity. This state should be treated immediately, because if left untreated it can prevent you from walking once the pain becomes excruciating.
Sprained Ankles
According to statistics, more than 25,000 people who fall, misstep, or accidentally twist their foot experience a sprained ankle. This injury happens when the tissues on the outside of the ankle stretch or even tear. Upon stretching your ankle, you will immediately feel pain, followed by swelling and bruising. The pain can be discomforting to the point that you won’t be able to put weight on that foot. In mild cases, some ice and rest will do the trick, while in more severe cases you will need a doctor’s assistance.
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