Why does your foot health matter as you age?
Our feet carry us through life, yet they are often neglected until pain or mobility problems arise. As we age, changes in strength, balance, activity, and circulation can make the feet more vulnerable to discomfort and injury. Maintaining good foot health is essential for staying active, independent, and confident. Our Podiatrists help people move comfortably and safely at every stage of life.
How Ageing Affects the Feet
As we grow older, several natural changes occur in the feet and lower limbs:
Reduced skin elasticity and fat padding – making the feet more prone to pressure and soreness.
Stiffness in joints and tendons – limiting movement and flexibility.
Changes in nail growth and skin condition – leading to thickened nails, corns, or calluses.
Altered foot shape – arches may flatten over time, changing how weight is distributed.
Reduced balance and sensation – often linked to changes in proprioception, muscle strength, or nerve sensitivity (Mickle et al., 2009).
These changes can make walking more difficult and increase the risk of falls if not addressed.
Why Regular Podiatry Matters
Foot pain is not a normal part of ageing. Many age-related issues can be prevented or managed with regular podiatry care.
A Podiatrist can:
Monitor circulation, skin, and nail health.
Manage corns, calluses, and thickened nails to prevent discomfort.
Assess balance, footwear, and gait to reduce fall risk.
Provide exercises to maintain mobility and strength.
Support people with diabetes or arthritis who require ongoing foot care.
Evidence shows that proactive foot care can significantly improve mobility, reduce falls, and enhance quality of life in older adults (Spink et al., 2011).
The Role of Exercise and Movement
Keeping active is one of the best ways to support healthy feet. Gentle strength and balance exercises — such as Clinical Pilates, walking, or resistance training — can improve circulation, stability, and joint mobility. Combining podiatry with movement-based rehabilitation helps maintain independence and confidence in daily life.
Conclusion
Healthy feet are essential for healthy ageing. By prioritising Podiatry and regular movement, we can prevent many common problems, maintain comfort, and stay active for longer.
If you notice changes in your feet, or find walking more difficult, our Podiatrists can assess your foot health and create a plan to keep you moving well.
References
Mickle KJ, et al. (2009). Age-related changes in strength and morphology of toe flexor muscles. Journals of Gerontology: Biological Sciences, 64A(10), 1081–1088.
Spink MJ, et al. (2011). Effectiveness of a multifaceted podiatry intervention to prevent falls in older people: A randomised controlled trial. BMJ, 342, d3411.
The Royal College of Podiatry. (2023). Foot health for older adults. Retrieved from www.rcpod.org.uk
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). (2023). Standards of proficiency: Chiropodists / Podiatrists. Retrieved from www.hcpc-uk.org
