Items filtered by date: January 2025

Falls are a common concern among older adults and can lead to serious injuries. One major factor contributing to falls among seniors is the decline in physical fitness that naturally occurs with aging. As strength, flexibility, and coordination decrease, the risk of losing balance increases. Impaired vision, which becomes more prevalent with age, can make it difficult for seniors to detect obstacles or changes in their environment, raising the likelihood of tripping or stumbling. Medication side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, can also increase the risk of falls, especially when multiple medications are taken simultaneously. Chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease can affect mobility, making it harder to move safely. Additionally, surgical procedures or recovery from surgery can lead to temporary weakness, affecting balance and stability. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and educate 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 Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. 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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain, often affecting the joints, particularly the big toe joint. The condition occurs when excess uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. The most common sign of gout is intense pain, typically starting in the middle of the night, along with swelling and redness in the affected area. The joint may become warm to the touch and feel tender, making movement difficult. In some cases, gout attacks can recur, leading to joint damage over time. Elevated uric acid levels in the blood can result from factors such as diet, dehydration, obesity, or kidney problems. Excessive consumption of purine-rich foods like red meat, seafood, or alcohol can trigger or worsen gout attacks. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Barefoot walking offers many advantages for children, particularly in helping them develop essential skills for movement and coordination. By walking without shoes, children strengthen the muscles and tendons in their feet, which supports their ability to walk properly as they grow. The natural movement of the feet also promotes better alignment of the body, which can lead to improved posture. In addition to the physical benefits, barefoot walking supports brain and nervous system development. The soles of the feet are rich in sensory receptors that help send signals to the brain, enhancing sensory processing and motor function. This sensory feedback helps children improve their balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, contributing to cognitive development. If you would like to learn about additional benefits from having your child walk barefoot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can monitor your child’s foot health, and discuss whether this is a viable option for your lifestyle.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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