How Can My Shoes Be Unsafe?

Question: My doctor informed me that my shoes are unsafe for me. I have been wearing them for four years now and I don’t understand why he would say that.

As we get older, walking can become a challenge. You might have changes in your muscle tone that makes you weaker, your joint flexibility might be stiffer, and your balance might be wobblier. Changes in your foot structure can cause slips, trips and falls.

The most common injuries for seniors are due to falls. They often result in fractures, hospitalization and surgery. This might lead to less independence in the long run. Making sure to choose the right footwear is one of the best ways that you can protect yourself so that you can stay active and mobile.

If you purchase the proper shoes for your feet, they will provide more than just comfort.

Proper shoes offer stability, support, and traction. This will help you be more confident while taking each step, and that is what your doctor wants you to have. By selecting footwear specifically designed to reduce the event of falls, you will be able to improve your balance and protect your joints. If you are wearing the wrong shoes, it increases the likelihood of trips, slips and fatigue.

Common issues with inadequate footwear include foot pain and pressure on points in your feet that reduce stability. Worn soles can be lethal if you slip on a smooth surface.

If you do not have adequate cushioning in the soles of your shoes, it makes your muscles and joints work harder, causing muscle fatigue. If you do not have proper arch support, it can affect your overall body alignment which might cause back and hip issues due to an unsteady gait.

The key features to look for in finding the proper, safe shoe for you is to focus on finding a shoe that has a cushioned insole. Cushioned insoles will absorb shock and protect your foot and joints from impact. A good arch support will maintain proper foot alignment. This reduces stress and strain on your ankles, knees and hips.

Make sure that you have a wide toe area in your shoe to prevent your toes from being squeezed together and getting pinched. You want to be able to move your toes freely.

Slip resistant soles are a must. Make sure to have soles that will give you traction on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Shoes that have adjustable closures such as laces, straps or Velcro will ensure a secure fit and keep your foot stable.

As wonderful and easy as slip-ons are, they do not hold your foot in place and do not give you the customized fit that you need. Make sure that your shoes are made of lightweight and flexible material. This will reduce your fatigue, and it will allow you to have a more natural gait.

Your shoes hold up your whole-body structure, and you use your feet every day. Make sure that the foundation that you walk on supports your body throughout the day and is as safe as possible.

Consider choosing a walking shoe which offers support for daily walking. Orthopedic shoes are designed for those with foot conditions and often will accommodate custom inserts or orthotics. Easy to fasten shoes with Velcro will reduce your effort to put them on while still providing a secure fit if you have issues with the dexterity in your hands.

I think it is wonderful that your doctor addressed an issue that is so important to your overall well-being. It is simple to fix and will allow you to maintain your independence and quality of life for a longer period of time.

Kimberly Jensen has been working with Quail Park as a Senior Resource Advocate for over ten years and has helped hundreds of families find solutions to their senior problems. If you have a question, you can send it to her at KimberlyJ@QPCypress.com or call (559) 737-7443.