Globally, falls are a major public health problem and falls are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. According to World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 646 000 fatal falls occur each year, making it the second leading cause of unintentional injury death, after road traffic injuries; and adults older than 65 years of age suffer the greatest number of fatal falls.

 

Podiatrists play an extremely significant role in the prevention of falls for seniors. Our podiatrists are trained to identify patients who are at risk for falls and to address the primary biomechanical problems that can lead to falls. Some common risk factors include

 

• Toe deformities

• Foot pain

• Poor footwear

• Decreased muscles strength of lower limbs

• Unstable foot and ankle joints

• Gait impairment, walking difficulty

• Arthritis

• Diabetes

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Previous falls

• Balance impairment

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Preventing falls is possible through proper care of your feet and regular podiatrist visit to identify and manage your risk factors. Our podiatrists at Passion Podiatry can assist through education, footwear advice, maintenance of general foot health care, regular skin and nail care, assessing and treating foot pain, prescription of foot orthotics and exercise program.