Would you like to keep your feet in good shape as you grow older? Although you might not realize it, your feet are just as affected by aging 
as other parts of your body. Our Needham, MA, podiatrist, Dr. Michael Mitry of Advanced Podiatry of Needham, shares a few tips that will help you care for your feet.
Slather some moisturizer on your feet
Dry skin, a particularly common effect of aging, occurs when the production of the natural oils that lubricate your skin decreases. Without sufficient moisture, your skin can quickly become dry, itchy and cracked. Applying moisturizer to your feet daily will help relieve these uncomfortable dry skin symptoms.
Buy comfortable shoes
Years of walking, standing, running and jumping can lead to foot pain as you age. Pain may occur if you have arch problems or arthritis in your feet or ankles, but your feet may hurt even if you don't have an underlying condition. As a result of age-related changes, the fatty deposits that help cushion the bottoms of your feet become thinner. Without a thick layer of protective layer of fat, walking on hard surfaces can be painful.
Making good shoe choices can help you avoid pain. When you visit Needham area shoe stores, look for footwear that supports your arches, cushions your feet and is sturdy enough to offer stability. Although you may have been able to wear inexpensive flip flops or flat shoes in the past, choosing shoes with sufficient support is a must as you grow older.
Avoid ingrown toenails
Your toenails can grown into your skin if you don't cut them straight across. Unfortunately, arthritis or mobility issues can sometimes make it difficult to cut your nails yourself. If this is the case, ask a friend or relative for help or call our Needham office to schedule a nail cutting appointment.
Look for signs of trouble
Daily foot exams can help you identify possible problems before they become out of control. Pay attention to the appearance of your feet and nails. For example, if you notice that your nails appear yellow, successfully treating your fungal infection may be easier if you catch in the early stages. Exams are particularly important if you have diabetes. If you see open sores, red skin, red streaks, numbness or a change in the temperature or color of your feet, let us know immediately. Treating diabetic foot conditions promptly will help you avoid serious complications.
Keep your feet healthy and comfortable with a visit to the foot doctor. Call our Needham, MA, podiatrist, Dr. Mitry of Advanced Podiatry of Needham, at (781) 444-4044 to schedule an appointment.