SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Among older Americans, falls are the number one cause of injuries and death from injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Not only are seniors more at risk for falls, but when they do fall, they are at a greater risk for injuries, hospitalization and complications. Medical experts say that for people of all ages, a ground-up approach to fall prevention starts with healthy feet.

“Painful foot conditions, such as osteoarthritis, calluses, bunions, hammertoes and diabetes complications, can make it difficult to maintain balance and coordination when walking or standing,” says Bryn J. Laubacher, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ACFAS). “Compounding the issue is that when you are suffering from a painful foot condition, it can be more difficult to engage in the strength and balance exercises that ultimately reduce fall risk.”

Experts say that eliminating foot pain can lessen one’s chances of experiencing a life-altering fall. That’s why the foot and ankle surgeons of ACFAS offer these steps for keeping feet and ankles strong and healthy:

Don’t ignore pain: Foot pain is not just a normal consequence of aging, so don’t ignore aching and suffering or resign yourself to it. You likely have a treatable condition. See a foot and ankle surgeon when you experience pain for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Examine your feet: Regularly inspect your feet. If you notice any bumps, lumps or other changes, make an appointment with your foot and ankle surgeon for evaluation.

Exercise: Simple stretching exercises can help you maintain strength and mobility in your feet and ankles, as well as provide pain relief. Talk to your physician about appropriate exercises for you.

Protect: Wear cushioned insoles or any special footwear you are prescribed, along with comfortable, well-fitting and supportive shoes, every day – even around the house.

Consider advanced options: Know that at times, surgery is the most appropriate treatment for a given condition. Fortunately, many surgical techniques today can be performed on an outpatient basis. There are also more options than ever before.

According to Dr. Laubacher, new medical technologies and ground-breaking surgical interventions, such as bioengineered scaffolding for reconstructive surgery, minimally invasive techniques and stem cell regeneration, are helping patients restore functionality and get back to normal faster than ever before,

For more ways to keep feet and ankles healthy and prevent falls, and to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the ACFAS patient education website. Foot and ankle surgeons are experts in providing both conservative care as well as surgical approaches to foot and ankle healthcare.

“Remember, just one fall can have a major impact on a person’s independence and quality of life. That’s why it’s so important to prevent falls by taking care of your feet and ankles,” says Dr. Laubacher.

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