Painful and uncomfortable feet aren’t a natural part of growing old. A lot can be done to improve comfort, relieve pain and maintain mobility, according to the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists.

Unfortunately, our waistline is not the only thing to spread from our 40s and 50s onwards. Our feet are also prone to aging. Skin begins to thin, and feet become longer and wider as the years pass. However, many of us still buy shoes that we were fitted for in our teens or 20s.

A US study – If the shoe fits, wear it – found that nine out of 10 women wear shoes that are too small and, after the age of 60, as many as 70 per cent of women will have osteoarthritis problems in their feet.

“You often hear people say they hate their feet but you really need to respect them. Even something as simple as getting up to make a cup of tea or going to the bathroom depends on having healthy feet,” says Frank Dunphy, orthotic fitter and foot massage specialist with Step Forward Ireland.

Fallen arches, hammer toes, painful heels, calluses, cramps, sore legs, sore feet, corns and bunions are among the most common issues with feet after 50, says Dunphy.

“Walking on concrete, improper footwear, age and gravity are the major factors that lead to structural problems with the musculoskeletal system. When foot posture is incorrect, the entire body structure is incorrect, and weak or misaligned bones and arches can lead to painful conditions affecting the knee, hip, back, neck and shoulder,” he explains.

Orthotic supports moulded in the shape of a normal healthy foot can help realign muscles and ligaments, says Dunphy, explaining that an orthotic support lifts the bones rather than the foot.

Good hygiene and foot care can also go a long way to keeping our feet in good shape, although foot problems should always be seen by a chiropodist/podiatrist.

Our feet can also be an indicator of more serious health problems and certain conditions (such as diabetes, blood pressure, kidney disease, arthritis, circulatory and neurological diseases) are often spotted on the feet first – another good reason to get them checked by a professional.

Top tips

• Keep toenails trimmed to guard against ingrown toenails
• Remove hard skin regularly with either a foot scrub or foot file
• Have corns removed professionally (cutting instruments and corn plasters can damage surrounding tissue)
• Older feet have dry skin so use a special foot moisturiser daily
• Keep feet warm – our circulation slows as we age
• Get your feet measured annually and wear shoes with roomy toes and securely fitted heels
• Avoid flip-flops and slip-on shoes as they cause the toes to grip and can lead to hammer toes
• Seek advice on padded insoles/supports