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Falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries among older people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many wind up in the emergency room after suffering a fall-related injury, with some needing a hospital stay and additional rehabilitation. Our doctor of podiatry at Scott T. Grodman, DPM reminds patients that selecting footwear that provides support and stability can have a major impact for anyone seeking enhanced balance and mobility.
Our podiatrist urges all of our patients — both new and returning — to discuss any and all health conditions that may affect your balance and mobility. We are experienced in all aspects of the foot and ankle, and can provide guidance about the important steps to take when selecting footwear. If during our comprehensive examination we feel you could benefit from corrective shoe inserts called orthotics, we can fit you for a prescription model in our office or recommend an over-the-counter brand. Many commercial shoe brands come with generic insoles that provide little or no support, and an orthotic can provide an immediate remedy.
When buying shoes, it’s a good idea for older people to have their feet measured professionally in the store before making a purchase. Our feet change size as we age, so choosing the size you’ve worn for years without measuring may yield an inaccurate result. One foot may be larger than the other, which means you’ll have to pick a size for the larger foot. The heel should be somewhat stiff and the toe box should have some flexibility. Bring the socks you plan to wear with the shoes as well as any insert you’re already using, and take a walk around the store. If they don’t feel comfortable and supportive in the store, don’t expect that to change once they are broken in.
If you have questions about selecting the right footwear, or concerns about anything related to the health of the foot and ankle, please don’t hesitate to contact our podiatrist at Scott T. Grodman, DPM for an appointment!
