Foot pain, nail problems, and footwear issues can all contribute to reduced balance and mobility. Through footwear assessment, gait review, and targeted podiatry care, we help support safer movement, reduce falls risk, and maintain independence at home.
The Prevalence of Foot Problems
Foot issues affect a large proportion of the population. Research suggests that up to 75% of people will experience foot problems at some point in their lives.
In older adults, these issues become even more common, with approximately 24–30% of people over the age of 65 experiencing foot pain or related conditions.
When feet become painful, even simple daily activities such as walking, standing, or getting around the home can become more difficult. Over time, this can lead to:
- Reduced activity levels
- Decreased confidence when moving
- Loss of independence
- Reduced overall quality of life
The Link Between Foot Health and Falls
Falls are a major health concern for older adults. Studies show that around 1 in 3 adults over the age of 65 experience at least one fall each year. Falls are also one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence.
Foot health plays a key role in this risk.
Painful or unhealthy feet can alter the way a person walks. These changes in walking patterns—often subtle—can affect balance, coordination, and stability.
Additional factors that can increase falls risk include:
- Reduced sensation in the feet
- Muscle weakness
- Structural foot changes
- Poorly fitting footwear
Together, these factors can reduce the body’s ability to detect the ground and maintain a steady posture.
The Demands Placed on the Feet
Our feet are subjected to significant mechanical load every day.
- When standing, the feet support the full weight of the body
- When walking, forces increase due to ground reaction forces
- With each step, the feet can experience two to three times body weight
Over time, these repeated forces can contribute to:
- Skin and tissue stress
- Painful pressure areas
- Callus formation
- Joint and soft tissue strain
Without proper management, these changes can further affect mobility and increase the risk of falls.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The good news is that many foot conditions can be identified early and managed effectively.
Regular podiatry care can help:
- Reduce painful pressure areas
- Manage skin and nail conditions
- Monitor circulation and nerve health
- Improve comfort when walking
- Address factors contributing to falls risk
By addressing these issues early, it is often possible to maintain mobility and prevent more serious complications.
Supporting Mobility and Independence
Looking after your feet is not just about comfort—it plays a crucial role in maintaining safe movement, good balance, and independence throughout life.
A proactive approach to foot health can help you stay active, confident, and supported in your day-to-day activities.
Book a Home Visit
Home Base Podiatry provides comprehensive mobile podiatry care across Brisbane, supporting foot health, mobility, and falls prevention in the comfort of your home.
References
Hill KD, et al. (2019). Falls in older people: Risk factors and strategies for prevention. Age and Ageing.
Menz HB, Auhl M, Spink MJ. (2018). Foot problems as a risk factor for falls in community-dwelling older people: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Maturitas.
Mickle KJ, Munro BJ, Lord SR, Menz HB, Steele JR. (2011). Cross-sectional analysis of foot function, functional ability, and health-related quality of life in older people with disabling foot pain. Arthritis Care & Research.
Spink MJ et al. (2011). Effectiveness of a multifaceted podiatry intervention to prevent falls in community dwelling older people with disabling foot pain. BMJ.
Boulton AJM et al. (2008). Comprehensive foot examination and risk assessment. Diabetes Care.
