Citation

Ikpeze TC, Omar A, Elfar JH. Geriatr Orthop Surg Rehabil 2015; 6(4): 338-340.

Affiliation

School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/2151458515608672

PMID

26623172

Abstract

Foot pathologies are common in nearly 80% of all elderly patients, and studies have indicated inappropriate footwear as one of the major underlying cause. It has been postulated that ill-fitting shoe wear affects plantar pressure, thus exacerbating weak balance. Complications arising from foot pathologies, which include difficulty in maintaining balance, have increased the risk of falls that can result in fractures and other serious injuries. The link between footwear and the onset or progression of certain foot pathologies has emphasized the need to explore and promote preventative measures to combat the issue. Wider and higher toe boxed shoes, along with sneakers, are examples of footwear documented to evenly distribute plantar pressure, increase comfort, and facilitate appropriate balance and gait. Ultimately, the use of appropriate footwear can help to better stabilize the foot, thus reducing the risk of sustaining debilitating physical injuries known to drastically decrease the quality of life among the geriatric population.

Language: en