May is National Foot Health Awareness Month in Canada and Seniors Month is coming in June locally in Thorold. As amalgamation is a growing trend these days, let’s integrate the two themes in our blog to create synergies and efficiencies with a focus on foot health.
Seniors are known to develop systemic conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease that cause problems in the extremities. For example, peripheral neuropathy, which can be a symptom of diabetes, causes a loss of sensation in the feet, according to the local experts at Elio’s Foot Comfort Centre in Thorold. Peripheral neuropathy can also impact a person’s ability to walk properly or maintain balance. As a result, falls happen more often for persons with peripheral neuropathy.
Additionally, circulatory problems can lead to injuries. The problem could become ulcerated and trigger severe foot pain because of a low blood supply. This problem slows down healing.
Typically, seniors with foot pain seek a solution when the problem becomes unbearable. As a smart alternative, Elio’s recommends a preventive care plan.
With no plan, patients face serious health risks, incur expenses and consume valuable time in addressing foot and leg problems. By focusing on prevention, and setting a plan for regular foot care, patients with diabetes can be proactive in their goal to alleviate foot problems. We also know that healthy feet help to create a strong foundation for the body, according to Rob DiFelice, co-owner, Elio’s Foot Comfort Centre in Thorold.
Rob DiFelice, co-owner, Elio’s Foot Comfort Centre in Thorold.
A preventive health plan includes an annual foot assessment. At Elio’s, an annual foot exam is recommended for every patient. Persons with health conditions should be checked more frequently. In a foot assessment, one of the Canadian Certified Pedorthists at Elio’s will look at a patient’s gait analysis and watch how they walk.
We also check to see if a patient wears properly fitted orthopedic footwear. The exam also covers functional testing. We’ll check a patient standing, sitting, and lying down. The assessment also looks at the range of motions of a patient’s joints and we’ll test strength of the muscles around the joints.
Mario DiFelice, co-owner of the locally owned clinic.
Conveniently located in the centre of Niagara, Elio’s Foot Comfort Centre is in the Pine Shopping Centre, 9 Pine Street North in Thorold. As Niagara’s total foot care clinic, Elio’s welcomes patients from across Niagara to start their preventive health plan by booking a foot assessment.
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