Geriatric Podiatry: Special Foot Care for the Elderly
The passage of time affects the structure and function of the feet: thinner skin, slower circulation, fragile nails, deformities or chronic diseases can generate discomfort and risk of complications. In old age, podiatric care is not a luxury, but a necessity to preserve mobility, prevent pain and avoid major complications. In Malaga, at
Why Elderly Feet Need Special Attention
Structural and Degenerative Changes
With age, tissues lose elasticity, plantar fat decreases, bones and joints wear out, and deformities such as bunions, claw toes or cavus feet appear. This alters the distribution of loads and increases stress in certain areas.
Circulatory Problems and Reduced Sensitivity
In older people, microcirculation is slower and there may be arteriosclerosis, diabetes or other conditions that reduce sensitivity. These situations favor the appearance of ulcers, infections or wounds that go unnoticed for a long time.
Fragility of Skin and Nails
The skin becomes thinner and drier, and the nails can become more brittle or ingrown more easily. Calluses or hardness can ulcerate if not treated properly.
Risk of Falling and Loss of Stability
Pain, deformities or imbalances in the feet affect the gait pattern, which can increase the risk of tripping or falling, something particularly serious in older people.
What Does Geriatric Podiatric Care Include at Semedi Salud Málaga
Comprehensive Assessment of the Elderly Foot
We perform a thorough examination: inspection of the skin, nails, foot morphology, joint mobility, circulation, sensitivity and pressure distribution. We also review medical history, diseases that may affect the foot (diabetes, vascular diseases, osteoarthritis…).
Hygiene, Removal of Hardness and Calluses
We treat calluses, helomas and hardness with safe and precise techniques, avoiding aggressions on fragile skin. Professional equipment, files, burs and tissue control are used to relieve pain and prevent complications.
Nail Care and Prevention of Ingrown Nails
Adequate nail cutting (straight and without rounded edges), treatment of fragile nails, prevention of ingrown nails or minimal interventions if necessary, all under local anesthesia and with safety and asepsis criteria.
Manufacture of Custom Insoles and Footwear Recommendations
When there are alterations in the footprint or deformities, adapted geriatric insoles are made to redistribute pressure, improve comfort and prevent injuries. We also give guidelines on the ideal footwear (good support, sufficient space, anatomical sole, secure fit).
Periodic Monitoring and Education
Periodic check-ups are scheduled to monitor evolution, make adjustments if necessary and prevent recurrences. We also guide the patient and caregivers on appropriate habits (skin hydration, daily check-up, mobility exercises).
Benefits of Receiving Specialized Geriatric Podiatry
Improved Comfort when Walking and Pain Reduction
The relief of calluses, use of insoles and nail care allows you to walk better and with less discomfort.
Prevention of Serious Complications
Attending to hardness, incipient ulcers, fungi or wounds in time prevents infections, amputations or hospitalizations.
Maintenance of Autonomy and Mobility
Healthy feet facilitate walking, climbing stairs and performing light physical activity, contributing to a better quality of life.
Increased Safety and Lower Risk of Falls
By correcting imbalances, improving plantar sensation and reinforcing stability, the probability of tripping or falling is reduced.
Care that You Can Apply at Home as an Elderly Person or Caregiver
Daily Review and Gentle Hygiene
Wash your feet with warm water (never hot), dry well, especially between the toes, apply moisturizing cream without excesses and check if there are wounds, reddened areas or changes in nails.
Use of Appropriate Footwear
Shoes with non-slip sole, sufficient space in the toes, firm support and secure fit. Avoid narrow, pointed or too rigid footwear.
Moisture Control and Prevention of Fungi
Keep your feet dry, change socks daily, wear cotton or breathable socks and ventilate footwear.
Gentle Mobility Exercises
Mobilization of ankles, toes, stretches, slight strengthening of the foot muscles to maintain flexibility and improve circulation.
Avoid Walking Barefoot on Hard Surfaces
Inside the house you can use slippers or comfortable shoes to protect your feet from bumps or cuts.
Warning Signs to Go as Soon as Possible
Wounds that Do not Heal
Cuts or ulcers that persist for more than a few days, become infected, suppurate or change color.
Intense Pain or Sudden Change in Gait
If severe pain, sudden swelling, change in the way of walking or lameness appears without clear explanation.
Symptoms of Infection
Redness, local heat, secretion, increased sensitivity or systemic symptoms such as fever may indicate infection and require immediate attention.
Why Choose Semedi Salud Málaga for Geriatric Podiatry
Specialized Experience in Elderly Patients
We have podiatrists trained and sensitive to the needs of elderly people, who know how to work with delicacy and precision.
Safe and Comfortable Facilities
Our center in El Corte Inglés in Malaga offers accessibility, adapted environments and comfort for elderly people who come with reduced mobility.
Comprehensive Approach and Adequate Monitoring
We not only do the specific treatment, but we supervise the evolution, adjust insoles, offer education to the patient and caregivers, and collaborate with other specialties if necessary.
Geriatric Podiatry, a Special Care Adapted to the Needs
In old age, the feet require special care adapted to the physical conditions of that stage. Geriatric podiatry not only relieves discomfort but also helps prevent serious complications, maintain mobility, safety and autonomy. At
Semedi, we are located in El Corte Inglés de Málaga.
