MD Podiatrist Raises Awareness About “Hidden Mobility Loss” in Adults Over 40

Dan Micaels, DPM, is raising awareness about what he calls “hidden mobility loss” — the gradual decline in movement and stability caused by untreated foot and ankle issues. According to Dr. Michaels, many adults over 40 adjust to pain slowly without realizing how much their daily movement has changed.

“People don’t usually wake up one day unable to move comfortably,” says Dr. Michaels. “It often happens gradually. They stop walking as much. They avoid stairs. They limit activity without fully noticing it.” Foot pain, chronic stiffness, ankle instability, and untreated injuries can slowly affect posture, balance, and physical confidence. Over time, these small adjustments may contribute to larger mobility problems.