Falls are a common health concern and often result from a combination of physical conditions and environmental factors. Vision problems can make it difficult to judge surfaces and obstacles, while foot pain may alter gait and balance, increasing instability. Wearing poor footwear that lacks support or traction can also contribute to slips and missteps. Home hazards such as loose rugs, clutter, and uneven flooring further raise the risk. Additional risk factors include muscle weakness, chronic illness, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, address pain, recommend proper footwear, and provide custom orthotics to improve stability. Falling can seriously impact the feet. If you or a loved one has fallen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and provide additional fall prevention tips.

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 Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Havre de Grace, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions often develop gradually, starting as a small bump at the base of the big toe and slowly changing the shape of the foot. The bunion looks like a bony prominence forming as the toe pushes inward, and it may appear red or swollen. It can feel tender, stiff, or painful, especially when wearing tight shoes or walking long distances. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, and footwear that crowds the toes. A podiatrist begins with a careful exam and imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess joint alignment. Treatment may involve custom orthotics to improve support, padding, or shoe modifications to reduce pressure, and targeted exercises to maintain flexibility. In more advanced cases, surgical options may be discussed. Early care can slow progression and improve comfort. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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