A new study in the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Physical Therapy shows that foot orthotics are likely helpful in improving balance in older adults. Here are the results of the study:
STUDY OBJECTIVES: To determine if balance in older adults could be significantly improved with foot-orthotic therapy.
BACKGROUND: Poor balance has been associated with risk for falls.
METHODS: 13 subjects more than 65 years old, who reported at least one fall during the past year and showed poor balance, were in the research project. Subjects were tested for balance using several methods prior to foot-orthotic intervention. These tests were then performed again immediately after subjects received custom foot orthotics and then again two weeks later.
CONCLUSIONS: The results provide preliminary evidence that foot orthoses can effect improvement in balance measures for older adults.
If you or a loved one is unstable and prone to falls, contact us for an appointment in our Seattle foot clinic to see if orthotics might help.
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Hi. Can you please tell me specifically how much general improvement in whatever categories of balance was found in the study referenced in the article “Foot Orthotics Improve Balance in Older Adults”? Thank you.