Fall Prevention and Balance Support

What You Need to Know About Falls

Understand why falls happen and how podiatric care can help you stay steady on your feet.

Fall Prevention Through Podiatric Care

Falls are a serious health concern, particularly for older adults and individuals with foot and ankle conditions. Each year, millions of people suffer injuries due to falls, leading to fractures, loss of mobility, and long-term disability. Many of these falls are preventable with proper balance assessments, supportive braces, and podiatric treatments.

Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital visits among adults over 65, but they also affect younger individuals with balance impairments. According to the CDC, one in four adults over 65 falls each year, and fall-related injuries account for over 3 million emergency room visits annually.

Several factors contribute to an increased fall risk, including weak or unstable ankles, neuropathy (nerve damage) that reduces sensation in the feet, poor posture and coordination, muscle weakness, medication side effects that cause dizziness, and foot pain or improper footwear. Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps before a fall happens.

You should see a podiatrist if you frequently feel unsteady while walking, have difficulty standing on one foot, experience foot pain that affects your balance, or have already suffered a fall. A comprehensive balance evaluation can identify weaknesses or abnormalities that affect movement, so you can begin a personalized plan to improve stability.

Treatments That Improve Balance

The Moore Balance Brace (MBB) is a lightweight, custom-made ankle-foot orthosis designed to improve stability and reduce fall risk. Unlike traditional braces, the MBB is specifically tailored for individuals experiencing balance issues due to weakness, neuropathy, or instability. It provides added ankle and foot support, improves proprioception (the body’s ability to sense foot position and movement), and helps reduce the fear of falling while walking.

Custom orthotics are shoe inserts designed to correct foot positioning and provide arch support. Proper foot alignment can significantly improve balance and reduce strain on the ankles and legs. Orthotics absorb shock, improve weight distribution, and enhance foot control on various surfaces. Patients with flat feet, high arches, or pronation issues can benefit greatly from custom orthotics.

Strengthening exercises help improve muscle function in the feet, ankles, and legs. A podiatrist may recommend physical therapy or at-home exercises such as heel-to-toe walking, single-leg stances, and calf raises. Regular practice of these exercises can build strength and confidence in movement.

Shoes also play a critical role in stability. Look for low, wide heels, non-slip soles, firm heel support, and a proper fit. For patients with neuropathy, treating nerve damage with medications, nerve stimulation, and lifestyle adjustments can further improve sensation and coordination. Combining these approaches gives you the best chance to stay mobile, independent, and confident on your feet.