Items filtered by date: August 2018

Each second of each day in the United States, an elderly person falls. This statistic is why falls are the number one cause of injuries and death among older adults according to the CDC. Since over 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, the number of fall-related deaths and injuries suffered is expected to increase. Some of the risk factors that influence the amount of falls experienced by the elderly are reduced muscle strength, decreased activity, more severe chronic health conditions, and increased use of medications. One of the main causes of falls are deterioration in balance and strength. A solution to this issue could be found by taking vitamin D supplements to improve bone, muscle, and nerve health. If you are an older adult, you should practice strength and balance training. Activities such as Tai Chi are recommended because they will help make your legs stronger and improve your balance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Pain is typically felt on the foot near the pinky toe if you are afflicted with cuboid syndrome. Additional symptoms that can be experienced may include the area appearing red, difficulty in walking due to a lack of mobility, or possible swelling. One of the most common causes of cuboid syndrome developing may be due to ankle sprains. This type of injury may put excessive pressure on the ligaments and ankle bones, possibly resulting in the cuboid bone dislocating and moving outward. If you are afflicted with this condition, you may find moderate relief in elevating your foot, which may aid in reducing swelling. It’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information and treatment recommendations.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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