Our Feet

Our feet, including ankle, heels, arches, soles and toes, are made of a total of 26 bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels. It is one of the most important body parts. A pair of healthy feet helps to balance our body effectively to prevent fall when we move around for independent living. Some foot problems are bound to occur after a long period of wear and tear.

Common Foot Problems

The common foot problems in elderly people include:

1. foot structure and function problems e.g. hallux valgus and plantar fasciitis,
2. skin problems e.g. calluses, corns, warts and fungal infection,
3. toenail problems e.g. ingrown toenail and fungal infection,
4. disease-related foot problems e.g. swollen feet, varicose vein and peripheral arterial disease.

There are many causes for foot problems, e.g. unsuitable footwear, inappropriate foot care, infection, as well as underlying chronic problems such as diabetic vascular disease, congenital foot deformity, etc.

Daily Foot Care

We can promote foot health and prevent foot problem through proper daily care.

1. Clean both feet with warm water. Dry them thoroughly especially the spaces between the toes
2. Apply body lotion onto the feet to prevent dryness but avoid areas between the toes
3. Trim toenails straightly across regularly. Do not cut too close to the nailbed. Sharp corner or edges should be smoothened out by using a nail file
4. Immobile elderly should perform foot exercise daily to maintain joint flexibility and promote good blood circulation
5. Avoid barefooted whether indoors or outdoors
6. Do not apply any treatment or drugs for any foot problem without consultation with doctor

Daily Inspection

1. Inspect the feet on skin colour, for any redness, swelling, dryness or cracks
2. Inspect the feet on skin colour, for any redness, swelling, dryness or cracks
3. Any unusual sensation such as itchiness, numbness, pain, cold or hot sensation
4. Any deformity or joint pain

Consult doctor if you encounter any of the conditions above.

Selection of Suitable Shoes and Socks

1. Socks
   1. Choose cotton socks which is breathable and can absorb sweat
   2. Wash socks after worn to ensure hygiene
2. Shoes
   1. Choose proper shoe size and shape (sufficient space for one finger at heel)
   2. The shoe head should be soft, round and spacious enough for the toes to lie flat and wiggle, but it should not be too wide, otherwise the friction on the skin will cause calluses.
   3. The material of the side of the shoes should be strong enough to provide support for the ankle to avoid sprains
   4. The height of the heel should be around 0.5 to 1 inch higher than the sole. The sole should not be too soft
   5. Shoes should have comfortable and supportive insoles that can distribute body weight evenly
   6. Choose shoes with stablizing design such as shoelaces, buckles or velcro to prevent excessive fatigue of foot muscles