Your feet provide much-needed support over the years, bearing the brunt of daily activities like work and play. Unfortunately, repeated mechanical stress can result in injuries and chronic pain. Visiting a foot specialist ensures your feet will get the extra care and attention they deserve. This guide outlines the changes you can expect as you get older, and what you can do to find relief.

What Happens to Feet as You Age?

Over time, feet lose their natural elasticity and shock-absorbing layer of fat, making movement more painful. Since the soles of your feet are packed with nerve endings, you may experience increased sensitivity when walking. Losing fat and elasticity also causes aesthetic changes, so feet appear wrinkled. Years of wearing high-heeled shoes can lead to conditions like bunions, hammer toes, and general foot pain, all of which impact comfort and mobility.

How Should You Care for Your Feet Now?

There are many ways to care for your feet and help them feel revitalized. Try soaking them in a soothing bath for at least 10 minutes per day, separate from your normal bathing routine. While time-consuming, this will go a long way towards stress relief. Make sure to dry off carefully, including the spaces between your toes, to reduce the risk of a fungal infection. A foot specialist may also recommend using a special cream or lotion to restore some of the skin’s elasticity. Massaging sore feet with a mentholated product stimulates the skin and increases blood flow to the area, improving circulation and reducing painful swelling.

If you’re suffering from painful or swollen feet, Podiatry Associates of Rochester is ready to help. Their team of foot specialists provides high-quality care to patients throughout Monroe County, NY. To reach their Portland Avenue podiatry office, call (585) 342-8700. Call (585) 426-7320 for their Buffalo Road location. More information about their services is available on their website.