Healthy feet play a major role in staying active and independent as people age. Natural changes in the feet can reduce cushioning, weaken muscles, and limit joint movement, making standing and walking less comfortable. Skin also becomes thinner and drier, while toenails can grow thicker and harder to trim. These changes raise the chance of pain, balance problems, and falls. Ignoring foot discomfort can also make everyday tasks more difficult. Regular visits with a podiatrist help detect concerns early and keep small problems from becoming larger ones longer. Supporting foot function improves confidence with every step.

Common foot conditions in older adults include bunions, hammertoes, and thick toenails. Arthritis can stiffen joints and change the way the foot moves, increasing pressure on certain areas. Poor circulation means reduced blood flow, which slows healing. Nerve damage, called neuropathy, reduces feeling in the feet and makes injuries easier to miss. A podiatrist carefully examines the feet, checks circulation and sensation, and treats painful nail and skin problems while recommending shoes with proper support. A podiatrist can then develop a treatment plan catered to your needs. Early evaluation also helps improve comfort, mobility, and everyday safety.

Prompt care can protect mobility and support a more active lifestyle. Foot pain should never be accepted as a normal part of getting older because effective treatment is available. A podiatrist can relieve painful pressure points, treat skin concerns, and recommend custom orthotics when they provide better support and comfort. Addressing problems early also lowers the risk of falls and helps people remain confident while walking, preserving independence and stability. If you have symptoms of elderly foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kennedy Legel of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Specialists. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Heel pain in children often occurs during periods of rapid growth. Sever’s disease is frequently linked to overuse and strain on the developing structures of the foot. Children between the ages of eight and 14 are especially at risk because their bones may grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons. This imbalance can place added tension on the heel, leading to irritation and pain. Active children who participate in sports that involve running and jumping may experience this condition more often.

Symptoms of heel pain in children include tenderness at the back or bottom of the heel, discomfort during physical activity, and stiffness after rest. Some children may limp or avoid placing full weight on the affected foot. Pain may increase during sports and improve with rest, but it can return when activity resumes. In some cases, swelling or tightness in the calf muscles may also be present. Early recognition of these symptoms can help prevent worsening discomfort and support proper healing.

The main cause of heel pain in children, often called Sever’s disease, can be related to growth spurts. During their adolescent years, the heel bone grows rapidly, while the surrounding muscles and tendons may not keep pace. This can lead to increased tension on the heel. Repetitive impact from sports and physical activities can further strain the area. Relief often includes stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce stress on the heel. Parents should never push children through heel pain, as this can lead to more serious issues.

Risk factors for heel pain in children include high levels of physical activity, tight calf muscles, and participation in sports played on hard surfaces. Early attention is important for maintaining comfort and mobility. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Kennedy Legel from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Specialists. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Choosing the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Running shoes are designed to support the foot during repetitive impact, but the best choice depends on individual foot biomechanics. This includes how the foot moves during walking or running, known as pronation. Understanding whether a person has overpronation, supination, or neutral pronation helps guide proper shoe selection. Each pattern affects how weight is distributed across the foot and how forces are absorbed.

Symptoms of improper shoe selection may include arch pain, shin discomfort, or recurring injuries. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively, placing strain on the arch and inner ankle. Supination, also known as underpronation, happens when the foot rolls outward, reducing shock absorption and increasing stress on the outer foot. Neutral pronation represents a balanced movement where weight is distributed evenly, allowing for efficient stride and reduced strain.

Risk factors for choosing the wrong running shoes include lack of knowledge about foot structure, improper fitting, and selecting shoes based only on appearance. Runners who train on hard surfaces, such as pavement, require road running shoes that provide cushioning and support. Stability running shoes are recommended for individuals with overpronation, as they help control excessive inward motion. Neutral running shoes are designed for those with balanced foot mechanics and provide flexible cushioning without added correction.

The cause of many running related injuries can be traced to mismatched footwear and poor biomechanical support. Proper assessment of foot type and gait is key to selecting the right shoe. This can improve alignment, reduce stress, and enhance overall comfort. Understanding foot biomechanics empowers runners to make informed decisions and maintain long-term foot health. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions and guide you on how to choose shoes that are right for you.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Kennedy Legel from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Specialists. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. This condition often affects the big toe, a problem known as podagra, because this joint is more vulnerable to crystal formation. The big toe is located far from the heart, which can result in slightly lower temperatures that encourage crystal deposits. In addition, the joints in the big toe have repeated stress from walking and standing, which can make it more prone to inflammation and pain.

Symptoms of gout usually appear suddenly and may include intense pain, swelling, and redness. Warmth and tenderness also occur. The affected joint may feel stiff and extremely sensitive to touch, even from light pressure such as bed sheets. These flare-ups can last for several days and may return if uric acid levels remain elevated. Risk factors include a diet high in purine rich foods, obesity, and dehydration. Alcohol use, certain medications, and family history are other factors. They can increase uric acid production or reduce its elimination from the body.

Gout develops when excess uric acid forms crystals that settle in the joint, leading to inflammation. The big toe is often the first site affected because of its frequent movement, which can trigger irritation. Eating the right foods plays an important role in managing gout and lowering uric acid levels. A balanced diet that limits red meat, processed foods, and sugary drinks helps. Hydration, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains also can help reduce flare ups and support joint health.

Managing gout involves controlling uric acid levels and reducing inflammation to prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and following a gout-friendly diet can make a meaningful difference. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kennedy Legel from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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