Normal changes occur in your feet as you age.
- Feet tend to spread, possibly causing shoe size to change. Have your feet measured each time you buy shoes. Do not assume that your shoe size has not changed.
- The bottoms of the feet lose the fatty pads (especially the heel pad) that cushion the feet.
- Skin becomes thinner and less elastic and may get injured or infected more easily.
- Ligaments and tendons lose their ability to stretch normally (elasticity).
- Nails tend to get thick and brittle.
Medical conditions such as obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and poor circulation (in either the veins or arteries of the legs) may increase the risk of foot problems.
Credits
| Author | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Editor | Alison Allen |
| Editor | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery |
| Last Updated | February 8, 2007 |
Author:Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Last Updated: 02/08/2007
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
