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Age-Related Foot Changes

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Age-Related Foot Changes

Overview

Normal changes occur in your feet as you age.

  • Feet tend to spread, possibly causing shoe size to change. Have your feet measured each time you buy shoes. Do not assume that your shoe size has not changed.
  • The bottoms of the feet lose the fatty pads (especially the heel pad) that cushion the feet.
  • Skin becomes thinner and less elastic and may get injured or infected more easily.
  • Ligaments and tendons lose their ability to stretch normally (elasticity).
  • Nails tend to get thick and brittle.

Medical conditions such as obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and poor circulation (in either the veins or arteries of the legs) may increase the risk of foot problems.

Credits

Current as of: March 9, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine
Gavin W.G. Chalmers DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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