Season of Balance

Season of Balance

With the coming of the fall equinox I find comfort knowing there is balance. Equal amounts of light and dark. As the seasons change and we cool down many people look forward to slowing down and evaluating what is to come in the next few months.

Its a good time to remember balance in our bodies as well. Having balance to walk safely.

We tend to forget about our feet until something starts to bother us. A nail getting too thick, callus or pressure point or shoes that don't fit as good as they once did. All these things can cause us to not walk as we normally would. Taking smaller steps. Not going as much. Or using furniture to walk with.

Which can lead to less comfort. Less activity and less independence.

When its time to change your shoes With the coming of the fall equinox we start putting on socks and closing up our toes. Maybe even some boots. Before you put on that shoe you wore last year. Make sure it still fits.

Our feet change in size and shape. Swelling. Changes to the toes. Bunions or lack of padding can all change how your shoe fits.

Make sure your shoe:

* Has plenty of room for your toes

* Snug around the heel

* Wide base with low heel

* Shoe has lace up or strap on

* Shoe sole has good traction and aren't worn down on one side.

Foot pain and improper footwear have been found to be risk factors for falls in older adults. Shoes with no backs or slip on shoes may not give your feet the support they need. You may have to hold on to your shoe with your toes. Which can lead to falls. Find shoes that fit and give your feet the support they need. (CDC)(https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html)(National Institute on Aging) https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/falls-and-fractures-older-adults-causes-and-prevention

Balance starts from the ground up.

Preventing falls can come from many aspects. Eyesight, medication, strength, balance. There are many things to consider when helping someone prevent a fall. Your feet and shoes are only a piece of the puzzle.

Keeping up with your foot care won't prevent you from falling. It will allow you to stay comfortable and treat any issues with overgrown or thickened nails. Corns, calluses and proper footwear. Someone can also assess your feet and notice any changes that should be reported to your primary care doctor or podiatrist.

If you are an older adult with Diabetes, lack of feeling, circulation or unable to see or reach your feet it's important to ask for help. It doesn't mean your not independent. It may allow you to be.

Autumn reset for your feet.

When we clean out our house for the new season we can also give our feet a reset.

1. Inspect your feet daily. Look for redness, swelling, cracks, blisters, drainage and places your shoes may rub.

2. If something is bothering you don't ignore it. Its not normal to have foot pain as we age. If something is new or continues to get worse you should report it.

3. Make sure your shoes fit. You may have worn the same size your whole life but its not always the case.

4. Wear clean socks that fit. Socks should not leave deep lines around your leg or ankle.

5. Make sure you have good light. When the days start getting shorter you may not see steps, wires, objects and other things on the ground as easily.

6. Know when to seek medical attention. Open areas of the foot, infection, swelling, color changes and loss of feeling should be reported to your healthcare provider.

Small steps can go a long way. Having your feet feel comfortable can help you walk to your dinner table, activities or see your friends. Walk to your grandchilds house. There are many reasons why you should take care of your feet.

Sole Renewal will be opening up to serve our older adult population on October 15th 2026. Sole Renewal provides RN foot care to our clients in their homes and through senior-living and community relationships.

During your first visit with Sole Renewal we will perform a foot/skin assessment, routine foot care, footwear assessment, shoe size, educate and refer if needed. Sole Renewal will provide you with the care you deserve.

Remember balance can change at any time. Take the necessary steps to help keep you safe this fall. Contact Nurse Tricia with any questions or to learn more about our future services. Call (270) 805-7397 or email [email protected]. www.sole-renewal.com