As people age, even small changes in foot function can influence how they walk, stand, and maintain balance. Reduced flexibility, muscle weakness, or loss of sensation in the feet can make it harder to adjust to uneven surfaces, often leading to discomfort or instability. Chronic foot pain, whether from arthritis, deformities, or circulation issues, can cause people to alter their gait, which further increases the risk of falls. Wearing supportive footwear and targeted foot-strengthening exercises can improve stability and reduce pressure on painful joints. Podiatrists play an important role in assessing balance, identifying biomechanical problems, and recommending custom orthotics or footwear designed to restore comfort and mobility. If foot pain or unsteadiness is affecting your daily confidence, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for personalized evaluation and fall-prevention strategies.

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 Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville 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 Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Daily foot care is vital for people with diabetes, as poor circulation and nerve damage can make feet more vulnerable to infection and injury. Wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal growth. Moisturize dry skin to avoid cracking, but never apply lotion between toes. Check feet daily for blisters, cuts, or color changes, using a mirror if needed. Always wear clean, well-fitted socks and supportive shoes to protect against pressure points and sores. Trim nails carefully, straight across, to prevent ingrown toenails. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors, and keep blood sugar levels in check to support healthy circulation. If you notice swelling, redness, or wounds that do not heal promptly, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and professional diabetic foot care to prevent complications and maintain mobility.

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 Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. 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 Hendersonville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a common foot condition that causes a visible bony protrusion to form at the base of the big or pinky toe. Bunions vary in severity, so while some may be mild, others can be painful. If a bunion is causing discomfort or pain, this could potentially lead to other foot ailments due to a shift in gait. Treatment for bunions usually begins with a change in footwear. Wearing narrow, tight, and pointed footwear can intensify an already existing bunion. Switching to wider shoes that fit properly and offer support should help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with bunions. Shoe inserts that help improve arch support and toe spacers are also recommended in treating bunions. If these conservative methods don't provide relief, it is suggested that you consult with a local podiatrist. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM of Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Hammertoe is more than a visible deformity of the smaller toes. The bent position alters how the foot bears weight and shifts pressure across the lower extremity. As the toes contract, the forefoot absorbs greater force, changing walking patterns and placing extra stress on the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. This strain can trigger heel pain or plantar fasciitis, which in turn may further disrupt normal gait. Over time, a cycle develops where abnormal mechanics worsen both the toe deformity and the surrounding soft tissue irritation. Muscle imbalance and tendon tightness may also contribute to ongoing damage, making correction more difficult as the condition progresses. Wearing supportive footwear, targeted stretching, and orthoses can help reduce stress on the toes and fascia, but advanced cases may require surgical correction. If you are experiencing painful changes linked to hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Daniel Mendoza, DPM from Nashville Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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