Thankfully, there are many simple options to treat achy feet so you can get back to pursuing your goals and hobbies. Here are seven of them you can try today.

1. Visit a Podiatrist

Podiatrists specialize in foot health, which makes them a valuable resource for older adults. Besides diagnosing and treating issues such as bunions and arthritis, they offer preventive care that can help you avoid ingrown toenails and diabetic ulcers.

Often during your first visit, they'll study your feet and joints, including your range of motion. It's best to bring the shoes you wear the most so they can check the fit to see if your footwear is causing you pain. If your shoes are part of the problem, they can recommend styles and inserts tailored to your feet and needs.

2. Physical Therapy

Here at The Gardens at ViewPointe, we know physical therapy and podiatry make a powerful team to combat foot pain, which is why we offer both services to our residents. When you visit a physical therapist regarding your foot pain, they'll perform an evaluation to determine the best strategy for reducing it.

They often use stretches and strengthening exercises to ease pain and inflammation. Another area they'll target is your walking habits. Once they've studied your gait, they can help you retrain walking habits to reduce the stress on problem areas and improve your balance.

3. Massage

Massage is a simple but effective way to relax muscles and ease foot pain. Massage therapists can use advanced techniques to target problem areas and provide relief without medications. You can also use online guides to learn how to give yourself a simple message in your assisted living apartment.

Before starting, ensure your hands and feet are clean, and check your feet thoroughly for any injuries. You may wish to use a long-handled hand mirror to help you view the soles of your feet. Also, be sure to talk with your medical provider beforehand if you have diabetic neuropathy or are susceptible to blood clots.

4. Epsom Salt Foot Soak

Despite its name, Epsom salt isn't related to the sodium chloride on your table that's used to season food. Instead, it comprises magnesium and sulfate. When dissolved in warm water, the mineral helps relieve foot aches caused by bruises, sprains and muscle cramps. Its disinfectant properties also help treat athlete's foot and toenail fungus.

Preparing a foot soak is fairly simple. You just need a half cup of Epsom salts and a small basin or container that can hold enough water to cover your feet to your ankles. Keep towels handy to mop up any splashed water and to dry your feet thoroughly afterward to prevent slipping.

5. Moisturizers

The dry climate here in Colorado Springs, CO, ensures seniors regularly enjoy blue skies and ample sunshine. However, many individuals experience dry, cracked heels as a result of the low humidity. As with any broken skin, cracks in heels can become sore and inflamed, leading to foot pain and potentially dangerous infections.

If the dried skin is thick and hard, simple lotions may not be enough to reverse the damage. Instead, soak feet to soften them and gently use a loofah to remove dead skin. Immediately apply a thick cream or ointment.

Reapply moisturizer before bed, and wear a fresh pair of cotton socks while you sleep to help prevent your feet from drying out overnight. During the day, wear properly fitting shoes and socks that are dry and clean. If the cracks don't improve, talk with your doctor and caregiving team about additional options.

6. Shoes

Properly fitting shoes can help relieve pressure and discomfort caused by many foot issues, including bunions, bursitis and Morton's neuroma. The ideal shoe varies depending on your lifestyle and foot shape. A good rule of thumb is to choose pairs with wide toe boxes and a sturdy structure.

If shoes are too loose or too tight, they can rub and cause chafing and blisters. Untreated foot blisters can lead to infections and be slow to heal. So it's important to check your feet regularly for damage and replace worn, unsupportive shoes immediately.

7. Shoe Inserts

Typically, the generic lining that comes with your shoe doesn't offer much relief for sore feet. When buying shoes, you might want to consider purchasing a pair with removable insoles. This allows you to choose a replacement tailored to your needs.

There are many shoe inserts on the market today. Ones made from gel and memory foam provide extra padding that can soothe pressure on the heel and ball of your foot as you walk. You can also target specific issues, such as flat feet or plantar fasciitis, with specially designed shoe inserts called orthotics. Originally, these were custom-made from a doctor's prescription, but it's now possible to buy over-the-counter varieties.

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