Plenty of elderly people suffer from foot cramps, either occasionally or chronic. When family caregivers are looking after an aging loved one, they may have to help them deal with all their aches and pains, including foot cramps. Of course, any foot pain should be addressed by a doctor, preferably a podiatrist. However, there are definitely things that family caregivers or elder care assistants can do at home to relieve basic foot cramps.

Massage
When an elderly person’s feet cramp up, the muscles are spasming. Without help, those muscles have a difficult time getting back into a relaxing state. Massage can calm the muscles again. Use a mild lubricant like lotion or massage oil and start with broad strokes over the muscle spasm. Start with the palm of the hand and then massage the muscle with fingers as the spasms go away.

Vitamin Supplements
Sometimes, cramps in the feet and legs are a sign of a deficiency. With a doctor’s approval, vitamin and mineral supplements can bring some relief. Potassium and magnesium are the most common, and during a foot cramp, they can be taken to ease the symptoms. Some people insist that eating a banana every day can naturally provide the potassium they need to keep foot cramps at bay.

Ointments
With a prescription, seniors with foot cramps may benefit from having a topical ointment rubbed in to the painful spot. Anti-inflammatory ointment or a general pain relief or muscle relaxer often does the trick for minor foot pain. There are even over the counter varieties that may provide some relief.

Hydration
Seniors run the risk of getting dehydrated easily, and one of the symptoms of this condition is muscle cramps. If an elderly loved one is not getting enough fluids during the day, they may experience foot cramps. An infusion of fluids may aid in relieving foot cramps.

Elevation
When seniors aren’t very mobile, such as in a wheelchair or bedridden, sometimes fluids can build up in the feet, causing cramping. Family caregivers and elder care assistants can help elderly people elevate their feet to ease muscle spasms.

Compression Stockings
Sometimes the legs and feet don’t have as robust of circulation as they should, causing all kinds of foot issue including cramps. Prescribed compression stockings can help regulate circulation issues, making the feet healthier. Working with a doctor, seniors can include wearing compression stockings as part of their daily routine.

Good Shoes
Ill-fitting shoes are a leading cause of foot pain and it can cause all kinds of aches and cramps. Family caregivers should help seniors with purchasing shoes and check them periodically to ensure they still fit properly. Foot conditions like bunions, bone spurs and calluses can change how the feet fit inside shoes, even pairs that previously fit.

There’s no doubt that foot cramps can be a painful part of growing older. Family caregivers and elder
care assistants can do a lot to take care of foot pain that is happening now and take steps to prevent foot cramps in the future.

Source:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378512216301438

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elder Care in Seminole, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.