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The way healthcare is delivered in the US has been evolving in recent years. A new care model, called “value-based care”, helps individuals, especially those aged 65 years and up stay as healthy as possible as they age through preventive healthcare, letting them stay on top of their health and detect things before they become an issue. Read more: Your rights as a patient What are value-based care models? Value-based care (VBC) is a form of providing healthcare in which doctors and clinics are incented based on how healthy they keep their patients. Whereas in traditional fee-for-service models, doctors are not incented to keep people healthy, but paid based upon each service that they provide to the patient. Because it values quality, evidence-based care over quantity of services, value-based care focuses on health “outcomes” or results, like keeping blood pressure under control, reducing hospital visits, reducing A1C levels in diabetics and more. This is different from the traditional fee-for-service model, where providers get paid for each visit, or each test and/or procedure they perform, regardless of the outcome. Important terms to know: Value-based healthcare: A prevention-based care model where doctors are rewarded for keeping people healthy. Fee-for-service: A model where doctors are paid for every service they provide. Quick look: Fee-for-service vs Value-based care Feature Fee-for-service Value-based care Payment The more services performed, the more the doctors get paid. Doctors are rewarded when they keep their patients healthy and keep conditions under control. Focus Quantity of care provided. Quality of care provided. Example Doctor orders several blood tests when only one is needed to ensure they didn’t miss anything or to eliminate possible causes. Doctors practice preventive evidence-based medicine to help patients stay healthy and prevent unnecessary illness as they age. Goal Treat illness when it occurs. Prevents illness, detects issues early and keeps any conditions under control.   In fee-for-service, a doctor will be paid each time they see a patient. In value-based care, the doctor doesn’t charge for each visit and is rewarded for helping the patients stay healthy or get their health under control. Click here to find an internal medicine doctor near you Why value-based care matters, especially for people on Medicare Many adults aged 65 years and up have chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or COPD. If not managed properly, these may become gateways for other health problems. To keep chronic conditions under control, you need attentive doctors and care teams, and lots of follow-up. This means they will spend more time with you during appointments and will see you more often to make sure your health is under control and stays under control through preventive screenings, immunizations, and more such as lifestyle coaching. What you get in value-based care Instead of being rushed during appointments, patients in a value-based care system get: A care team made up of your primary care physician, nurses, dietitians, care managers, specialists, and consultants. They all work together to keep you in good health. Regular check-ins and support. For instance, after prescribing a new prescription the care team will check in on you to see how you’re doing. Focus on preventing problems before they start. For example, you will receive an Annual Wellness Visit and regular check-ins throughout the year, even if you feel great, to make sure that early indicators of health are all still within normal ranges. Care providers help you manage medications, appointments, and find answers to your questions. In value-based care, they understand that your mental health and peace of mind are just as important as your physical health. How value-based care works: An example Mr. Johnson is 72 years old. He has diabetes, high blood pressure, and suffered a stroke some years ago. The last few days, he’s had more trouble than usual urinating. In a fee-for-service model: Mr. Johnson sees his doctor for 15 minutes. The meeting feels rushed, which makes Mr. Johnson anxious, and he forgets to mention the pain in his side. The doctor adjusts Mr. Johnson’s medications and tells him to return in 3 months. Mr. Johnson is not very clear about how to manage his illness at home. He has questions, but nobody at the clinic seems interested in answering them. Some days later, Mr. Johnson develops sepsis from the urinary tract infection (UTI) and ends up spending a week in the hospital. In a value-based care model: Mr. Johnson is assigned a care team. Since his diabetes is fairly advanced, his team schedules a regular appointment with an endocrinologist, as well as with a podiatrist who checks his feet for gangrene. He is equipped with a glucometer and ambulatory blood pressure monitor. These devices are connected to his clinic’s computers. This way, his care team can keep an eye on his health remotely. Because the team makes sure to remain updated on his chronic conditions, Mr. Johnson focuses on telling his doctor about the pain in his side. The doctor ascertains that it’s a UTI, and prescribes a course of treatment. His medications are monitored, and he gets plenty of guidance on how to manage his conditions. Mr. Johnson feels more in control of his health and is able to stay out of the hospital. In short, with value-based care, Mr. Johnson gets better care, less stress, and more support. Benefits of value-based care for patients More time with your doctor: Many patients report their appointments feel rushed and they don’t get a chance to properly talk to their doctor. In value-based care models, your doctor’s goal is to keep you in good health, so they give you plenty of time and listen closely to your concerns — understanding that you know your body best. A team approach: You will have an entire care team looking after you, including nurses, social workers, and specialists who work together to help you feel your best. Focus on prevention: Your care team does not want to simply treat your illness. They want to keep you from getting sick in

There are two main kinds of Medicare Advantage plans: Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). HMOs are a type of managed-care plan offered by private insurance companies. HMOs typically have lower out-of-pocket costs if you get your care from healthcare providers within the plan’s preferred network of doctors. An HMO covers all the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), and extras, all in one plan, for generally less than you would pay out-of-pocket for Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage PPO plans. And, it puts a maximum on how much you will pay out-of-pocket every year. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to keep in mind with a Medicare Advantage HMO Most have $0 monthly premiums, depending on your area. All you will pay is the standard Part B premium, since Part B is packaged in the plan. Monthly premiums do not increase based on age. To keep costs down, you’ll need to get care from healthcare providers within the plan’s network, except in emergencies. Some require you to see a PCP who will coordinate, communicate, and direct all of your care with specialists. Some do not require referrals to see specialists who are in the preferred network. Healthcare providers may refer individuals to specialists who are not in-network at in-network rates in certain circumstances. Some, not all, HMOs have smaller networks of providers who are selected to participate in the network. Most encourage preventive healthcare to help keep you healthy by covering entire costs or offering low copays. Some offer access to doctors who are held responsible and paid to help keep you healthy by using proven national standards that encourage medical teams (primary care doctors and specialists) to work and communicate with each other to coordinate your care. Also, you will not pay extra for more PCP visits; it’s all part of staying on top of your health to keep you healthy. Did you know? The rate of potentially avoidable hospitalizations in Medicare Advantage beneficiaries is 43% lower than Original Medicare beneficiaries. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

There are two main kinds of Medicare Advantage plans: Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). PPOs are offered by private insurance companies. This type of plan covers all the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) with a network of preferred as well as out-of-network doctors. PPOs have higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs than HMOs. They include extras not offered with Original Medicare or Medicare Supplement, as well as extras like dental, vision, hearing aids, gym memberships, and more. Like HMOs, PPOs also limit how much you pay every year, but your out-of-pocket maximum will generally be higher with a PPO plan. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to keep in mind with a Medicare Advantage PPO Monthly premiums and out-of-pockets are higher than Medicare Advantage HMOs. (Most HMO plans have a $0 monthly premium. However, you will be required to pay the standard Part B premium since Part B comes packaged in the plan.) PPOs have higher deductibles than HMOs. You must pay these before the plan’s coverage starts. Monthly premiums do not increase based on age. You can choose to get care at in-network or out-of-network doctors. Note: Out-of-network providers will cost more. In some areas, the difference between a PPO preferred network and HMO network is not a lot. Most PPOs don’t require a designated primary care physician, so you don’t have anyone to oversee all of your healthcare needs. You will be responsible for managing and coordinating your care, and for identifying your specialists. Healthcare providers are not held responsible for delivering care based on national standards and evidence-based medicine. Did you know? A December 2021 survey from Morning Consult reported that Medicare Advantage has a 94% consumer satisfaction rating.In fact, 98% of people elect to stay in a Medicare Advantage plan upon renewal. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

Medicare Supplement insurance, sometimes called Medigap, is extra insurance you can buy from a private health insurance company to supplement the coverage not provided by Original Medicare. Medigap helps pay your share of out-of-pocket costs that come with Original Medicare plans. It does not offer many of the added benefits that usually come with most Medicare Advantage plans, like prescription drugs, dental, and vision. Generally, you must have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to buy a Medicare Supplement plan. You are not eligible to purchase a Medigap plan if you have Part C Medicare Advantage. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to think about with Medicare Supplement You will pay a monthly premium for Medicare Supplement insurance. This is in addition to the premium you pay for Medicare Part B. Most plans help pay your share of costs (like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments) without a yearly out-of-pocket maximum. This means your out-of-pocket costs are usually much lower and more predictable, but how much you pay in a year still depends on your medical needs and the Medigap plan you chose. Medigap plans generally don’t cover long-term care (like care in a nursing home), private nursing duty, vision, dental care, or hearing aids. You can see any provider who accepts Medicare, but most Medicare Supplement plans do not cover costs if the provider wants to charge more than what Medicare will reimburse. You will be responsible for paying 100% of these ‘excess charges’ out of your own pocket. Some plan premiums may increase as you age. Doctors are generally not paid to help keep you healthy by providing care based on proven national quality standards. Doctors generally do not work together to coordinate and discuss care plans. Did you know? Most Medigap plans don’t cover prescription drugs. To get medication coverage, you’ll usually need a separate Part D plan. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, including many recommended shots and vaccines. If you have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), you can buy a standalone Part D plan from a private insurance company to cover the cost of your prescription drugs. Most Medicare Advantage, or Part C, plans have Part D built in. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to think about with Medicare Part D Part D plans charge a monthly premium, which can vary by plan. You’ll also have costs like deductibles and copayments. Each plan has its own drug list (called a formulary), so make sure the plan you choose covers the prescriptions you take. Check if your local pharmacy is in the plan’s network. Using preferred pharmacies may save you money. Part D plans can change their costs and drug lists every year. It’s a good idea to review your coverage during Medicare’s Open Enrollment (October 15–December 7). Did you know? Part D carries a late enrollment penalty. If you don’t sign up when you become eligible for Medicare in your 65th year, and you don’t already have other creditable drug coverage (like from an employer or union plan), Medicare will add a late enrollment penalty to your Part D premium. This penalty is permanent; you will have to pay it every month for as long as you have Part D. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, is a Medicare-approved plan offered by private insurance companies. It’s an alternative to Original Medicare and offers everything that Original Medicare does and more, usually at no extra cost. Medicare Advantage plans include Part A and Part B of Original Medicare. Most also have Part D prescription benefits built in, and most offer extras such as vision, dental, hearing aids, transportation, and more. Medicare Advantage plans usually have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original Medicare and some (mostly PPOs) have an additional premium. Monthly premiums for Part C are not identical across the board. Depending on the insurance company, type of plan, and where you live, your premium could be as low as $0. (Note: You will still have to pay the standard Part B premium, since Part B comes packaged in Part C plans.) Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to think about with Part C Medicare Advantage Some Medicare Advantage plans now offer additional extra benefits to help with meals, transportation, over-the-counter medications, housing, and more. Offers a covered Annual Wellness Visit (every year) to help ensure that you’re maintaining your health. Some Medicare Advantage plans incent doctors who provide quality care that helps keep you healthy. This type of care is called value-based care. The purpose is to stay on top of your health and better manage conditions and symptoms, while keeping overall healthcare costs down. Medicare Advantage beneficiaries report spending less annually in total healthcare spending compared to individuals on Original Medicare or Fee-for-Service plans. Medicare Advantage has a 12-month trial period. The trial period gives you a chance to try out the benefits of a specific Medicare Advantage plan to see if it’s right for you. You’re eligible for this trial if you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan when you were 65 years old or if you initially enrolled in Original Medicare and Medigap, but then decided to switch to Medicare Advantage. Just ask a Medicare licensed broker how it works. Did you know? 95% of Medicare Advantage members are satisfied with their plan. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

Part B, also called medical insurance, is part of Original Medicare (the government’s Fee-for-Service program). It helps cover services from doctors and other healthcare providers, such as outpatient care, lab tests, and some home health care. Part B also covers durable medical equipment like wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds, and many preventive services like screenings and shots. All Medicare Advantage plans must include standard Part B coverage. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to think about with Part B Part B is optional. You are not required to enroll in it, but most people do choose to get it because it covers care costs that Part A (hospital insurance) does not cover. You will pay a monthly premium. For 2026, the premium is projected to start at $206.50/month. Exact figures will be announced by the CMS on September 30, 2025. There is no maximum out-of-pocket limit, so there is no limit to how much you will pay annually for care. This means if you have a lot of doctor visits, tests, or long hospital stays, your costs (deductibles, coinsurance, copayments) can keep adding up. There is no maximum limit where Medicare says, “You’ve paid enough, now we’ll cover 100%.” You will pay 20% coinsurance for your care. Part B offers an initial preventive exam when you join Medicare. However, it does not cover an Annual Wellness Visit which is covered in Medicare Advantage plans. Part B does not cover prescription drugs. If you want prescription drug coverage you will have to buy a Medicare Part D drug plan or select a Medicare Advantage plan. You can see any health care provider who accepts Original Medicare. (Note: Not all doctors accept Original Medicare. Before your visit, always ask if the doctor takes Medicare. If they don’t, you may have to pay the full cost yourself.) Par B does not cover costs a healthcare provider may charge if they want to charge more than what the government (Medicare) agrees to pay for care. Doctors are paid for the volume of services they provide. They are not incented to help keep you healthy by providing care based on proven national quality standards, although some may participate in a Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) that will reward them for keeping their patients healthier. Doctors generally do not work together to coordinate and discuss care plans. Did you know? Many people do not know that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t cover everything. You can purchase a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help cover what Original Medicare doesn’t cover. But even Medicare Supplement plans with 100% coverage do not cover everything. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

When you turn 65, you may be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) if you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits. If not, you will need to sign up. Medicare Part A is healthcare coverage managed by the federal government. It provides essential protection against the high cost of hospital care. It helps cover inpatient care in hospitals and care at skilled nursing facilities, hospice and home health. Coverage for hospital stays includes room, meals, general nursing care, and medications that are part of your inpatient treatment. If you need short-term rehabilitation after a hospital stay, Part A may cover services in a skilled nursing facility, and limited home health services if you meet specific requirements, but it does not cover long-term custodial care. All Medicare Advantage plans must include standard Part A coverage. Download complete Medicare 101 e-book here Some things to think about with Medicare Part A Most people don’t pay a monthly premium for Part A. This is because you or a spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you may be able to buy it. However, even $0-premium Part A requires you to pay a deductible. This is a set dollar amount that is fixed for each year: for 2026, the Part A deductible is projected to be $1,716/benefit period. You pay the deductible for services used before Medicare begins covering hospital expenses. For example, if you fall, get injured, and need to stay in the hospital, you’ll first pay the Part A deductible of $1, 716 to cover care costs. After you meet that deductible, Medicare Part A will cover the approved costs of your hospital stay for up to 60 days in that benefit period. Note: Remember to check back on September 30, 2025, when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announce exact figures for 2026. You will have to pay daily coinsurance after a certain number of days. Generally, days 1-60 have no coinsurance as long as you have paid the deductible. From day 61 to day 90, you will pay the necessary per-day coinsurance. After 90 days, you can use “lifetime reserve days”, which cost more. Part A coinsurance for 2026 Days Amount 1-60 $0 61-90 $429/day 91-150 (Lifetime reserve days) $858/day 150+ You pay all costs in full   Note: These are projected figures. Remember to check back on September 30, 2025, when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announce exact figures for 2026. Did you know?Lifetime reserve days are a special safety net built into Part A hospital coverage for very long hospitalizations. These are 60 days you can use after you have spent 90 days in hospital. Lifetime reserve days can be used only once in your lifetime. Example: You are hospitalized for 95 days straight The first 90 days are covered under regular Part A rules. For days 91–95, you would use 5 of your 60 lifetime reserve days. That leaves you with 55 lifetime reserve days to use for future hospital stays. Click here to connect with a licensed, trusted Medicare Advantage broker

Emphysema is a long-term lung problem that slowly damages the tiny air sacs in the lungs. This leads to shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. Because emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, people with emphysema may also have other lung issues that make breathing hard. Let’s take a detailed look at what emphysema is, the link between emphysema and COPD, and how emphysema is treated, with medication as well as home remedies. Click here to find primary care doctors in Arizona and Texas What is emphysema? Inside your lungs are tiny, balloon-like structures called alveoli, that open and close as you breathe. When you inhale, the alveoli fill up with air. They extract oxygen from this air and send it into your blood stream. At the same time, they pull carbon dioxide from your blood and send it out of your body when you exhale. This process works because of the microscopic size of the balloons. When the thin, delicate walls of the alveoli break down, the tiny sacs become larger balloons that can’t work effectively. This is called emphysema. The link between emphysema and COPD COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is an umbrella term for lung conditions that block airflow and make breathing difficult. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the main types of COPD. Many people have both conditions at the same time, so treatments for emphysema are usually part of a larger COPD plan. Who gets emphysema and why Over 3 million people in the US live with emphysema. The main cause is long-term exposure to cigarette smoke. Other causes include air pollution, dust, or chemical fumes, and a rare genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Because lung damage builds up slowly, emphysema is more common in people aged 65 years and above, though it can occur earlier too. How to recognize emphysema: Common signs and symptoms Emphysema usually starts slowly. The first signs can be mild and easy to miss. Common symptoms are: Breathlessness or shortness of breath when walking or doing everyday tasks. Getting winded quickly. Needing more rest after activities. Wheezing or noisy breathing at times. Long-term cough that may bring up small amounts of mucus. Weight loss and muscle weakness when disease is advanced. This can cause you to fall. Fingernails that have a blue tinge. How is emphysema diagnosed? To check the health of your lungs, your doctor might run tests like: Spirometry: This breathing test measures how much air you can breathe out and how fast. It helps show where the airflow in your lungs may be blocked. Chest X-ray or CT scan: These show any changes in lung structure and the size of the alveoli. Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas: These check oxygen levels in the blood. Some people need these tests at rest and during activity. Six-minute walk: Your doctor will have you walk for 6 minutes and then measure your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Tests for causes: If a genetic cause is suspected, a blood test for alpha-1 antitrypsin can be done. Doctors may also test for other health problems that make breathing worse. Do you know how you can walk 6,000 steps a day? How is emphysema treated? Medicines, therapies, and choices Emphysema is not curable, so treatments focus on managing the condition and slowing down progress. Your doctor’s aim is to help you breathe better, ease shortness of breath, prevent flare-ups, and keep you active and independent. Treatment for emphysema includes: Giving up cigarettes, cigars, and other smokable tobacco products. This is the most important step. Also try to avoid secondhand smoke and harmful fumes (e.g. from paints and other chemicals). If you’re on Medicare, you can get free counseling to help you quit smoking. Medicines, such as bronchodilators that open up airways, and corticosteroids that reduce inflammation. Emphysema medications are often taken via inhaler devices or nebulizers. Pulmonary rehabilitation. These are structured programs made up of exercise, breathing education, nutrition help, and support. They’re often offered at hospitals and clinics and are a key part of long-term care. Oxygen therapy to deliver oxygen via a face mask or nasal tube. Supplemental oxygen can be used during physical activities, at night to help you sleep better, or whenever you need it. Vaccines and infection prevention. Flu and pneumonia shots lower the chance of infections that can cause flare-ups. Home remedies and daily tips that help breathing These steps do not replace medical care, but can improve comfort and function: Breathing exercises such as pursed-lip breathing, paced breathing, and box breathing can help remove old air trapped in lungs and allow fresh air in. Because emphysema causes breathlessness, people may avoid physical activity. This can weaken muscles, especially in the legs. Walking and chair yoga are good ways to keep legs strong. Avoid triggers such as smoke, chemical fumes, strong perfumes, cold dry air, and poor-quality air. In cold weather, cover your nose and mouth with a scarf. Keep indoor air, such as in the home and office, clean. Use air filters, wear a mask, and check for dust and mold. Plan for the weather when you travel. Check your destination’s air quality, wear a mask, and carry your inhaler with you at all times. The impact of emphysema on your health, mood, and quality of life Emphysema can reduce energy and the ability to do things you enjoy. You may even end up cutting back on social activities because getting out of breath is tiring, or feels embarrassing in front of other people. See a health care provider As with any chronic condition, the earlier you begin preventive care, the better. Speak to your doctor as soon as you notice you’re feeling breathless, a tightness in the chest, or develop a cough that doesn’t go away. If your breathing drops suddenly or you have chest pain, confusion, fainting, or severe shortness of breath, go to the emergency room. Prevention and living well The best way

Relaxing on the couch, you get up for a glass of water, only to feel a sharp pain in your heel. You’re not alone. Often described as a ‘searing’, ‘burning’, or ‘stabbing’ pain, plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that affects 1 in 10 people. Heel pain can make everyday movement feel daunting, especially for older adults. At IntraCare, we help individuals 65+ stay active and independent by addressing common issues like plantar fasciitis with care and compassion. What is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis (pronounced plan-tur fash-ee-eye-tis) is frequently described as a stabbing or burning pain in the bottom of either one or both feet. The pain may be most intense in or near the heel, or it can run the length of your sole. It is often especially painful first thing in the morning, or when taking the first few steps after a period of rest. Why does plantar fasciitis happen? Plantar fasciitis happens when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, irritated, torn, or damaged. The plantar fascia is a thick band of elastic tissue that starts right under the rounded heel bone, runs across the bottom of the foot, and ends just where the toes connect to the ball of the foot. Somewhat like a bowstring, the plantar fascia joins the heel and foot tautly so that your foot curves into an arch. When you walk or run, the plantar fascia stretches and contracts to absorb the impact from making contact with the ground, and distributes the force across the width of the foot. Read more: 6 easy ways to walk 6,000 steps a day How to know if you have plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis symptoms include: A sharp stabbing or burning sensation in the bottom of the foot, especially near the heel. Heel feels tender when pressed or when walking. Swelling near the heel. A feeling of tightness in and/or around the arch of the foot. Pain in the arch. Feet hurt in the morning. Pain is intense when taking the first few steps after a period of rest. Pain lessens after walking a bit, but returns after standing or sitting for long. Feeling unstable or wobbly, as if your feet are about to give out. Walking on balls of feet to relieve pain in heels. What causes plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis affects older adults more because of the wear and tear our feet go through over time. Our cells also regenerate much more slowly, or stop renewing altogether. This means microtears in the tissue do not heal properly. Other causes of plantar fasciitis Weight gain: Every extra pound of weight pushes down on your feet. This flattens the arch of the foot and overstretches the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Bad footwear: Shoes that don’t fit well, lack arch support, wobble, have thin soles, and don’t hold feet securely in place, like flat sandals, very high heels, worn-out sneakers, and flip-flops. Chronic conditions: Health issues like diabetes or arthritis can impair blood circulation and slow down tissue repair, making it harder for damaged fascia to recover or heal. Dehydration: When you don’t drink enough water, your body starts pulling essential moisture from muscles, and from tissues like the plantar fascia. This makes it dry, brittle, less able to stretch, and likely to develop small tears. Plantar fasciitis treatment Most cases of plantar fasciitis may show improvement with a little effort and a few simple adjustments.   Foot workouts: Gentle exercises for plantar fasciitis can relieve pressure and strengthen supporting muscles in your feet. Towel stretch: Sit down, loop a towel under your foot, and pull gently. Foot roll: Roll your foot over a frozen water bottle for 10 minutes. Marble pickup: Put 15-20 marbles or small stones on the floor. Use toes to pick them up. Footwear fixes: Changing or updating your footwear may help ease pressure and pain in your feet. Use orthotic shoe inserts to support your arches. Shop for shoes in the late afternoon or early evening. This gives your feet plenty of time to naturally swell so you can get the most accurate, well-fitting size. Choose shoes with thick soles and good cushioning under the heel. Around the house, wear padded slippers with proper arch support even if you have carpeting, and especially if you have hardwood or tiled floors. Talk to your IntraCare provider about custom orthotics. Ask about Medicare-covered podiatry services. Manage weight: Eat a nutritious and well-balanced diet and get regular exercise. A good doctor will help you create diet and exercise plans tailored to your unique circumstances. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of liquids so that your body has all the water it needs. Click here to find the right primary care doctor for you in Texas Medicare benefits If you have diabetes or another chronic condition, you may be eligible for footcare assistance that includes podiatric care, medical-grade shoe inserts, and custom orthotics. Check your Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage plans for details. You can also call our Patient Relations Team at 800-941-1106 to have a no-cost, no-obligation Medicare Benefits review. Talk to a doctor Let your doctor know if: The pain in your feet lasts more than two weeks. You experience burning, tingling, or numbness, as these are signs of nerve damage. Heel pain makes walking difficult. You’ve had previous falls due to foot pain. Your doctor may examine your feet and test your walking patterns, and may also prescribe imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound to rule out other causes of pain. Click here to find internal medicine doctors in Arizona Possible complications if plantar fasciitis is left untreated Left untreated, foot pain can affect your mobility and increase your fall risk. Ignoring the pain of plantar fasciitis, or thinking it will go away on its own, may result in: Chronic heel pain: Microtears in the plantar fascia will build up, the plantar fascia won’t get a chance to properly heal, and eventually the tissue fibers may break down irreparably.