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6 - Foot Problems, Footwear, and Falls

from Part I - Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Falls

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 November 2021

By
Hylton B. Menz
Edited by
Stephen R. Lord ,
Catherine Sherrington  and
Vasi Naganathan
Stephen R. Lord
Affiliation:
Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney
Catherine Sherrington
Affiliation:
Sydney Medical School
Vasi Naganathan
Affiliation:
Concord Hospital
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Summary

As outlined in earlier chapters, falls in older people result from the interaction between intrinsic, or physiological risk factors (such as visual impairment, muscle weakness, and slowed reaction time), and extrinsic, or environmental risk factors (such as slippery surfaces, cracked footpaths, or loose floor rugs). Because the foot is the only direct source of contact with the supporting surface when undertaking weightbearing activities, it represents an important interface between intrinsic and extrinsic falls risk factors. This interface is further modified by footwear, which can affect balance in either a beneficial or detrimental manner. As such, foot problems and footwear have a significant influence on risk of falling in older people. This chapter provides an overview of the contribution of foot problems and footwear to falls in older people, and the role of podiatry in preventing falls. The use of footwear and foot orthoses as interventions is further addressed in Chapter 22.

Type
Chapter
Information
Falls in Older People
Risk Factors, Strategies for Prevention and Implications for Practice
 , pp. 119 - 129
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2021

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