Neurologic manifestations in the lower extremity in elderly persons.
According to the US Census Bureau, by the 21st century, approximately 20% of the US population will be over age 65. With the continued emphasis upon primary care, it is imperative that we devise a methodical approach in the assessment of patient problems as well as in the provision of optimal podiatric care in the geriatric community. The distinction between normal physiologic and pathologic neurologic aging processes was discussed in this article from both a diagnostic and prognostic standpoint. Degenerative and neurovascular causative conditions afflicting the lower extremity were discussed in greater detail with regard to clinical, diagnostic, pathologic, therapeutic, and prognostic aspects. It has been the authors' intent to enlighten the readers by providing measures that will secure more timely diagnoses and therapeutic regimens for age-related neuropathologic disorders affecting the foot.