Preventing falls in the elderly requires attention to several common risk factors. Muscle weakness, especially in the legs, can negatively affect balance. Medication side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, may also increase fall risk. Chronic health conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or neurological disorders can interfere with mobility and coordination. Vision changes often make it harder to detect obstacles or judge distances. Inactivity over time can reduce strength and flexibility, making daily movements less steady. Additionally, risky behaviors like standing on a chair to reach high places further increase the chance of a fall. To reduce risk, older adults should stay physically active, use mobility aids when necessary, and ensure home safety. If you have fallen and injured your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional 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 Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. 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 Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Chronic plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially in active individuals. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or strain. Common causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, high-impact activities, or an abnormal gait. Symptoms typically include sharp or stabbing pain in the heel, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged rest. The pain may subside during the day but can return after standing or walking for long periods. A podiatrist can diagnose chronic plantar fasciitis through physical exams and imaging tests. Treatment options include custom orthotics to support the arch, targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot, and anti-inflammatory medication. In more severe cases, injections or even surgery may be necessary. If you are dealing with painful plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arch of your foot collapses, remaining flat while standing or walking. This can cause discomfort, particularly after long periods of time on the feet. Flexible flatfoot is common in children and often persists into adulthood without symptoms. However, when pain develops, a podiatrist may recommend orthotic shoe inserts to support the arch and reduce strain. Rigid flatfoot, by contrast, is more serious and often linked to structural abnormalities. Rigid flatfoot can cause significant foot pain, poor balance, and limited mobility. For children with certain congenital deformities or teenagers with fused foot bones, surgery may be required to restore alignment and function. Adults who develop flat feet after trauma or from unknown causes may benefit from a combination of custom orthotics and surgery to correct dislocations or relieve pressure on the joints. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your flatfoot in order to recommend an appropriate solution. If flat feet are causing your foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe pain can signal an underlying issue with how blood flows to and from the lower extremities. Because the toes are farthest from the heart, they are often affected first when circulation becomes compromised. Signs of poor circulation include coldness, color changes such as pale, bluish, or reddish tones, or swelling that worsens throughout the day. Some people notice numbness, tingling, or even pain during walking that subsides with rest, which can indicate restricted blood flow. Discoloration or thickened toenails, especially when accompanied by slow healing of minor cuts or sores, may also suggest poor circulation. People with diabetes are especially vulnerable, as nerve damage and vascular disease can reduce blood supply and increase the risk of infections or tissue damage. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough examination and order diagnostic testing to determine the cause. Treatment may involve medication, circulation assessments, or surgery, in more severe cases. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation and discomfort. This condition most often affects the big toe and can develop gradually. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain when pressure is applied, and in some cases, drainage or signs of infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, and repeated trauma to the toe. Individuals with curved or thickened nails, poor foot hygiene, or a family history of the condition may be more at risk. Identifying an ingrown toenail early allows for prompt treatment and helps avoid complications. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions before it becomes infected.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.