Will Store-Bought Orthotics Work for Me?
Wondering if store-bought orthotics are enough to ease your foot pain? Learn the difference between off-the-shelf inserts and custom orthotics — and find out which is right for your feet.
How Much Foot Pain Is Normal with Aging?
As many as 36% of adults experience foot pain, with up to 87% of older people affected. As we age, it’s normal to feel changes in our body — slower recovery, stiffer joints, and a few more aches and pains.
If you feel pain in your feet more often, you might wonder if it’s just part of getting older or something more.
At Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic in Draper and Orem, Utah, we often hear this question. The truth is, foot discomfort can happen with age, but ongoing or severe pain shouldn’t be ignored.
In this post, we help you understand what’s typical, what’s not, and how to take care of your feet as you grow older.
Aging and your feet: What changes?
Here are a few natural changes that can happen to your feet as you age:
Fat pads get thinner
The natural cushion on the bottom of your feet starts to wear down, making it feel like you’re walking on bone.
Arches may flatten
Ligaments and tendons lose strength and flexibility, sometimes causing arches to fall.
Joints stiffen
Wear on the joints can lead to stiffness or osteoarthritis.
Circulation slows down
Sluggish circulation can lead to slower healing and cold feet.
Skin becomes drier and thinner
Thin, dry skin makes your feet more prone to cracking and irritation.
You can probably expect some mild soreness or stiffness after a long day, but daily pain, swelling, or discomfort that limits your movement isn’t normal — even if you’re older. Here are signs it’s time to talk to a foot specialist:
- Foot pain that doesn’t go away after rest
- Pain that wakes you at night
- Swelling that won’t go down
- Numbness, tingling, or burning
- Changes in how you walk
- Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
These symptoms can point to treatable problems. The sooner we figure out the cause, the sooner you feel better.
Common foot conditions in older adults
Here are some of the issues we often see in patients over 50:
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of your foot, often causing heel pain in the morning.
Arthritis
Joint pain and stiffness can affect your toes, midfoot, or ankles.
Bunions and hammertoes
Bunions and hammertoes are bony changes that can become more painful if not treated early.
Neuropathy
Often related to diabetes or poor circulation, nerve damage causes numbness or burning in the feet.
Flat feet
Flat feet can develop if your arches fall, leading to arch, heel, or ankle pain.
Corns, calluses, and thick toenails
Skin and nail changes are common with aging and may require routine care. You may develop problems like ingrown toenails or nail fungus.
How to keep your feet healthy as you age
Taking care of your feet doesn’t have to be complicated. These smart habits can make a big difference:
1. Wear shoes with support
Skip the worn-out sneakers and flats with no support. Look for shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a firm sole. If you need help finding the right pair, we can guide you.
2. Stretch and strengthen
Simple foot and calf stretches can keep your muscles flexible and reduce pain. Exercises like toe curls and ankle circles also improve circulation and strength.
3. Keep your feet clean and moisturized
Wash daily, dry well (especially between the toes), and use lotion to prevent dryness and cracking.
4. Inspect your feet regularly
Look for blisters, cuts, swelling, or color changes. If you can’t easily see the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask for help.
5. Don’t ignore foot pain
Pain is your body’s way of saying something’s not right. The earlier we treat it, the better the outcome.
When to see a podiatrist about foot pain
If you’re dealing with foot pain that affects your daily life or you notice changes that concern you, it’s time to see a specialist. At Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic, we take the time to listen, evaluate, and create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
We offer everything from custom orthotics and physical therapy to advanced care for arthritis and nerve pain. Whether your feet need extra support or more specialized treatment, we help you stay mobile, active, and pain-free.
Foot pain isn’t just part of aging. You deserve to move comfortably at every stage of life. Call Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.
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