A Podiatrist's Guide to Preventing Falls
At Caring Podiatry, we know that a fall can be a life-altering event, leading not only to physical injury but also to a loss of independence and fear that limits your social life. Many people believe that falls are an inevitable part of aging, but that is far from the truth!
Falls Prevention Awareness Month is the perfect time to dispel this myth! The key to preventing falls often starts at the ground floor. Since your feet are the foundation of your balance, understanding how to keep them strong and stable is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward a safe and active future. That’s what this blog’s about!
Why Your Foot Health is Critical for Balance
Your ability to stand steady and walk confidently depends on a constant stream of information between your feet and your brain. When foot health is compromised, this communication system can break down, significantly increasing your fall risk.
Common podiatric conditions that contribute to instability include:
Ankle Weakness or Instability: Often the result of previous sprains or arthritis.
Diabetic Neuropathy: A loss of sensation in the feet can make it difficult to feel the ground properly.
Painful Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions or hammertoes can alter your gait and throw you off balance.
Poor Foot Alignment: Issues like flat feet can affect your entire posture.
Your Proactive Plan for Fall Prevention
Taking control of your fall risk involves a comprehensive approach that addresses your overall health and your environment.
1. Start with a Professional Evaluation:
· The first step is a Comprehensive Fall Risk Protocol with a podiatrist.
· We can evaluate your gait, test your balance, and identify any underlying foot and ankle issues that may be contributing to instability.
2. Manage Your Overall Health:
Have an annual eye exam to ensure your vision is clear.
Ask your primary care doctor to review your medications for any side effects like dizziness or fatigue.
Stay active with gentle exercises like walking or tai chi to maintain strength and coordination.
3. Make Your Home Safer:
Remove tripping hazards like throw rugs and clutter.
Install grab bars and non-slip mats in your bathroom.
Ensure all hallways and staircases are well-lit.
A Clinical Solution: The Moore Balance Brace
For patients who need an extra layer of support, we are proud to offer the Moore Balance Brace, a custom-made Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) that is clinically proven to…
✅ Stabilize the Foot & Ankle: It provides firm support to weak or fatigued lower extremities, preventing the ankle from rolling.
✅ Improve Foot Clearance: The brace helps lift your foot as you walk, reducing the chance of tripping or stumbling.
✅ Enhance Sensory Feedback: It gently stimulates the skin receptors on your foot, sending more information to your brain to help you feel more balanced and coordinated.
✅ Reduce Postural Sway: It helps keep you steady and upright, both when standing and walking.
Lightweight, discrete, and easy to wear, the MBB is also covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare, as a treatment for conditions associated with fall risk. We also have a pedorthist who comes to measure patients in our office, so finding the perfect fit is easy!
Don’t Fall for the “It’s Normal” Fallacy
Falls are not an inevitable part of life.
With the help of a podiatrist, you can maintain your independence and continue to enjoy an active, confident lifestyle. Get in touch with us; we’ll help you stay steady.
If you want to take the next step toward better foot health, contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111), Neptune (732-455-8700) or North Brunswick Township (609-860-9111) offices to schedule a consultation. Podiatrists Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, Mark Fillari, and Nicholas Crider will be eager to help you with the warmth, compassion, and expertise Caring Podiatry is known for.