Falls pose a significant threat to the health of seniors, often leading to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma. The risk of falling increases as balance and coordination naturally decline with age, making it harder for older adults to move safely. In addition to physical changes, issues like poor vision or medication side effects can contribute to the risk of falls. That is why it is vital for seniors to have regular eye exams to ensure their vision is sharp and clear. Properly correcting vision can significantly reduce the chances of missteps or accidents. Maintaining good balance through exercises like tai chi or strength training can also improve stability and reduce the risk of falls. In the home, removing clutter and installing safety features such as grab bars can further enhance safety. Falling can seriously impact foot health. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips, and guide you on additional fall prevention techniques.

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 Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. 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 offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that involves the misalignment or dysfunction of the cuboid bone, which is located on the outer side of the midfoot. This misalignment can lead to pain and discomfort, particularly when walking or running. The causes of cuboid syndrome are varied and often linked to midtarsal instability, where the bones in the midfoot lose their normal alignment. Excessive body weight can also contribute, as it puts added pressure on the foot and increases the risk of injury. Poor footwear, such as shoes that do not provide adequate support, can worsen the condition by failing to properly stabilize the foot. Training on uneven surfaces or engaging in high-impact activities without proper foot care can further increase the risk of cuboid dysfunction. Additionally, a previous foot or ankle sprain may leave the foot vulnerable to developing cuboid syndrome, making proper recovery and prevention measures essential for foot health. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 Troy Wilde, DPM from Practice. 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 offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stubbed toe pain occurs when the toe strikes a hard surface, often leading to sudden discomfort and swelling. This type of injury usually happens when a person accidentally bumps their toe against furniture, door frames, or other obstacles. The force of impact can cause bruising, tenderness, or even a mild fracture. The most affected area is typically the big toe, though other toes can also be injured. Relief from stubbed toe pain can be found by resting the foot and elevating it to reduce swelling. It is also advisable to avoid putting pressure on the toe by wearing comfortable, stiff-soled shoes. If the pain persists or if there is significant swelling or deformity, it is suggested that you seek medical attention from a podiatrist who can offer you additional effective relief tips.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Troy Wilde, DPM of Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.