For immediate release Media contact: Mark Forstneger (773) 693-9300 forstneger@acfas.org SURVEY SHOWS YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD FOR PAIN-RELIEVING FOOT SURGERY CHICAGO, March 30, 2006 – New survey results released today by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) show that eight in 10 elderly patients who had surgery to relieve foot pain are very satisfied with the outcomes.  Further, more than 90 percent said they now have little or no pain and are better able to pursue active lifestyles. “Studies have shown that older adults participating in regular exercise and other physical activities can prevent the onset of chronic disease, remain independent, and enhance overall quality of life,” said ACFAS Past President James Thomas, DPM, FACFAS.  “The survey results clearly show that older adults who undergo surgery to correct activity-limiting foot pain are able to resume physical activity and enjoy a healthier, less sedentary lifestyle.” The data also show that foot pain does not have to be accepted as an inevitable consequence of aging.  “Given the advances in surgical techniques and procedures, there is no reason for any senior to suffer from pain or disability related to bunions, hammertoes or arthritis in the foot or ankle,” Thomas said. He noted that when seniors are inactive due to foot pain, they increase their risk for cardiovascular disease, bone and joint problems, diabetes, impaired mental acuity and depression.  “Above all,” Thomas added, “inactive seniors often lose their sense of personal control and self esteem and ultimately their independence.” In the national survey of 119 patients 65 and older who had foot and ankle surgery one to five years ago:  84 percent said they were happy with the outcome of their procedures 65 percent listed decreased pain as a primary reason for having surgery More than half said improved walking ability was a key motivator 93 percent say they now have moderate, little or no pain.   78 percent said they have increased their physical activity   67 percent said their enjoyment of social and recreational activities has increased as well. “I have seen dramatic quality of life improvements in patients as old as 80 who were able to walk without pain after years of being inactive,” said John Grady, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon in the Chicago area.  “Some even told me they thought they were too old to have bunion surgery and believed they had no choice but to endure the pain.” Grady added that the most convincing finding of the ACFAS survey is that when respondents were asked if they would recommend foot or ankle surgery to friends their age, 85 percent answered yes.  “This statistic speaks for itself.  Seniors who took action to eliminate foot pain from their lives are glad they did and are happier and more active as a result.” Seniors and anyone seeking further information about causes of foot pain and treatments can visit www.FootPhysicians.com, the ACFAS consumer Web site.       ###