Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults and often result from a combination of factors, including poor balance, muscle weakness, vision problems, and foot pain or deformities. Foot issues like bunions, arthritis, or neuropathy can  also affect stability and lead to unsteady walking. Wearing ill-fitting shoes and having an uneven gait can further increase fall risk. Many seniors may feel unsteady or experience a fear of falling, which can lead to reduced physical activity and increased muscle weakening. Symptoms associated with balance problems include dizziness, instability, or difficulty rising from a seated position. A podiatrist can assess fall risk by examining your feet, gait, and footwear. They may recommend custom orthotics, targeted exercises, fall prevention strategies, and appropriate shoes to improve stability. In some cases, treatment of foot pain or correction of deformities can significantly reduce fall risk. If you are at risk for falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. 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 Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle ligament surgery may be needed when ligaments in the ankle have been torn or overstretched due to injury. The ankle is made up of three joints, and its stability depends on ligaments that connect bone to bone. When these ligaments are severely damaged, surgery may be the only way to restore support. Anatomic reconstruction is an option that involves tightening or repairing the original ligament using tissue from the same area or from a donor. Another method, called peroneal substitution, uses a nearby tendon to replace the damaged ligament, though this may affect long-term function. Other risks of ankle ligament surgery include infection, nerve injury, bleeding, and delayed healing. Recovery can take up to six months and usually includes a period of limited mobility, followed by gradual return to weight-bearing activities. If you have torn or ruptured an ankle ligament, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and prognosis on the type and level of surgery that may be involved, if needed.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver of Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Living with diabetes means paying close attention to your feet. This condition can reduce blood flow and damage nerves, making it harder to notice injuries or infections. Small issues like a blister or cut can quickly become serious if left untreated. Many people with diabetes experience numbness, tingling, or burning in their feet, which can lead to missed signs of trouble. Dry skin, changes in foot shape, and foot ulcers are also common. Daily foot checks, wearing clean socks, and well-fitting shoes are essential for protection. A podiatrist can help monitor your foot health and catch problems early before they become dangerous. If you live with diabetes and have noticed any changes in how your feet look or feel, or if you have not had a foot check recently, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized care plan.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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