4 Ways Your Podiatrist Can Help Prevent Falls
If you are hoping to prevent falls for an elderly loved one, our podiatrists in Spring and Tomball, TX can help. We can address existing foot problems that could affect balance; help you select supportive footwear; provide additional supports to optimize foot function; and provide co-ordinated care with other members of your loved one’s care team. Here’s what you need to know.
4 Ways a Podiatrist Can Prevent Falls 
As we age, our risk for falling increases due to decreased muscle strength and stability; reduced vision; and, often, due to effects of other health conditions and/or medications. Luckily, our podiatrists can help prevent falls in four important ways:
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Caring for Your Foot Health
When elderly patients come into the office for checkups, we identify and address any sources of foot pain. We also assess gait and muscle strength in order to detect potential balance and weakness issues before they cause a fall.
2. Providing Footwear Guideance
As you age, the shoes you wear are very important tools for preventing falls. Unfortunately, this study suggests that up to 72% of older adults wearing shoes that don’t fit their feet correctly, greatly challenging their balance. When we see older patients in the office, we’ll provide guidance on choosing supportive shoes that can improve balance. We’ll also make sure you or your loved one selects footwear with plenty of traction on the sole, helping prevent falls caused by slipping.
3. Adding Additional Supports
When the risk for falls is high, we can recommend additional interventions to help prevent accidents. Options include:
- Custom Orthotics:
These medical-grade insoles optimize your foot function, improving your gait and balance.
- Physical Therapy:
Our in-office athletic trainer can help prevent falls by suggesting exercises that will strengthen your ankles, feet and core, helping you improve stability and balance.
- Braces
When fall risk is high, we may recommend the added stabilizing support of an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO) or a brace.
- Home Safety Guidance:
We can recommend strategies to keep your home safer, such as securing loose rugs; improving lighting; installing double railings on staircases; and more.
4. Collaborating with Your Care Team
When necessary, our podiatrists can refer you to additional specialists to discuss medications that may increase dizziness (and fall risk) and to take a holistic approach to your long-term health.
Are you worried about your balance? Do you have an elderly friend or family member who has experienced a fall in the past? Studies show that your risk for falling dramatically increases after experiencing one tumble–that means now is the time to take action. Simply contact our office and schedule an appointment to get support with fall prevention.