By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM
Marsha is 73, lives alone and is a vibrant, active woman. About five months ago, on a beautiful morning, Marsha woke up and slid on her slippers, as she does every morning before heading to the kitchen for her morning coffee. As she reached for the coffee pot, her foot slipped and she fell directly onto her left side. Marsha knew immediately something happened; a shooting pain ran thru her hip. She was able to scoot across the floor and, thankfully, reach her cell phone. She called her neighbor who was able to come right over. Her neighbor could see the pain Marsha was in and was hesitant to try and move her. They called 911 and soon it was discovered Marsha broke the upper portion of her left femur. One surgery, 21 days of inpatient rehab and eight weeks of physical therapy later, Marsha improved greatly. She followed every exercise and direction she was given. She is so thankful to be back at home and in her old routine. Unfortunately, when I saw Marsha last week for coffee at her home, she was wearing the SAME SLIDE SLIPPERS!!!
There is much research and data that show falls are often associated with the following kinds of shoes: Slip-on shoes with no backs, flip flops, smooth leather bottoms, high heels, wedges to name a few. They are all popular, convenient and easy to slip into, and for some of us, we simply like the look. Honestly, the big question is, are these shoes worth it? What are they doing for your feet, back, balance and mobility? The truth is, everything in your body changes as you age, and your feet are no exception.
A few of the common changes in our feet as we age:
- Loss of fat pads on the bottom of the feet. Fat pads are a natural cushion of support for the balls of our feet and heels. Over time, this fatty tissue begins to thin, and can result in pain, heel spurs, inflammation and plantar fasciitis.
- Skin on our feet becomes thinner and loses its elasticity. These changes also affect the tendons and ligaments, resulting in a wider foot and often, a larger shoe size. Thin skin can easily tear and be punctured. Walking barefoot on rough or uneven surfaces puts this thin skin on the bottom of the feet at risk of injury. Conditions, such as diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, can quickly become infected and cause significant problems.
- Circulation may become less efficient in our feet as we age and, as a result, feet can become cold easily, tingle, cramp or swell.
- Nails become thicker and brittle. Like skin losing its elasticity, nails lose moisture and can crack or peel easily. Thin and brittle nails can also be a sign of other health conditions, such as hypothyroidism.
Shoes that properly support our feet allow the muscles of the feet to work less and can result in fewer injuries. A few features you may want to consider when selecting footwear:
- Nonslip sole – Helps with stability & balance
- Lace-Free Shoes – Velcro straps can be helpful in many ways
- Wide Mouth – Easier to get foot into shoes
- Adequate Padding help reduce impact, which affects back and hips
- Removable Insoles – Adds support and padding
- High Back – Supports ankle
- Low Heel – Less strain on toes and ball of foot
- Traction- Provides balance, stability and best on wet surfaces
Whether you’re seeking a comfy set of house slippers or a sturdy pair of walking shoes, there are a variety of great options to suit different tastes and reduce potential issues. Stay away from those slide slippers!
Original Article: https://www.northeastohioboomer.com/blogs/these-shoes-are-made-for-walking-or-are-they/