A recent study has proven that wearing a properly designed and fitted arch support results in significant improvements in balance, functional mobility, and reduced levels of pain in older adults. Poor balance, limited functional mobility and lower extremity and back pain increase the risk of falls in older adults. They can lower their risk of falls by initiating self-care activities, such as wearing arch supports, to improve balance, comfort and mobility.

FootEfx, a nationwide foot care retailer committed to bringing customers comfort, relief and balance through their stress reducing arch supports, is already a step ahead of the findings. FootEfx employs podiatrists, pedorthists, researchers, trainers and other foot care experts. FootEfx provides their customers with properly designed and fitted arch supports, often at the recommendation of physicians and other medical personnel. This study confirms what the professionals at FootEfx have been telling their arch support clients for years. Findings from the study are as follows: Falls are a serious and costly health problem among older adults in the United States. Age related changes, diseases, medication, improper foot care and footwear affect balance and increase the risk of falls. Neglect of the feet/improperly fitted shoes contribute to abnormal foot mechanics causing areas of excessive pressure/pain.

Conducted by the Department of Nursing of Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, GA

Purpose:

To examine the effect of arch supports on balance, functional mobility and back/lower extremity joint pain in older adults. Participants were tested without and with arch supports at the initial session, and again after 6 weeks of wearing them.

Instrumentation:

The Berg Balance Scale and TUG were used to assess balance and functional mobility. The Numeric Pain Distress Scale was used to assess pain.

Orthoses:

The Symmetry arch supports manufactured by Bio Orthotics, Plano, TX, used in the study were custom fit to each individual using a Brannock device to determine arch and shoe size, and a footprint to identify areas of excessive pressure. The Symmetry product was selected for the study because of its unique ability to support all four arches while stimulating muscle movement and circulation. They require a "break-in" period that most participants found acceptable.

Results:

Most participants reported compliance (wearing arch supports daily) during the 6-week period. There was statistically significant improvement in balance and functional mobility and a significant decrease in pain in feet, knees, hips and back. There was no statistical significant change in ankle pain. 85.1% of participants indicated that they benefited from using arch supports. Self-reported benefits included improved balance when walking, exercising, golfing, and bowling. The participants indicated they were able to walk better, stand longer, and experienced less pain in feet, ankles, knees, hips and back.

Implications:

This study proves that wearing a properly designed and fitted arch support results in significant improvements in balance, functional mobility, and reduced levels of pain in older adults.

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