How Podiatry can help improve your balance

Balance plays a critical role in walking, running and simply getting through everyday life without accidents. Each time you take a step, your body makes tiny adjustments to keep you steady and upright, and we often take balance for granted until problems occur.

Poor balance can occur at any age, even in the very young, but the risk of falls and injuries tends to increase as we get older. That’s why it’s essential to understand the importance of balance and how to improve it for overall wellness.

Understanding the causes of poor balance

Several factors can contribute to poor balance. Some medical conditions like vertigo, peripheral neuropathy, or a history of strokes can interfere with your stability and often require medical intervention. However, your feet, the shoes you wear, and your posture play vital roles in keeping you balanced.

Think about trying to skate for the first time: without a solid foundation, staying upright feels nearly impossible. Similarly, your balance can be significantly impacted by how your feet interact with the ground. For example, if your feet excessively pronate (roll inward) or supinate (roll outward), it can throw off your centre of gravity and disrupt your stability. The same happens when shoes are too soft on one side or are worn out, affecting how evenly weight is distributed across your feet.

Additionally, poor foot function such as limited mobility, can lead to walking habits that make you more prone to tripping, such as taking shorter strides. These smaller strides can increase your risk of catching your foot and tripping. On top of that, having bad posture can also weaken your core and hip strength, making you sway more and throwing off your balance even further.

Tips to improve your balance

The good news is that there are simple, everyday ways to improve your balance.

• Regular exercise: Focus on exercises that strengthen your core, hips and legs. Activities like yoga and strength training can enhance your stability.
• Wear supportive footwear: Invest in shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. Proper footwear can help maintain your balance and prevent injuries.
• Pay attention to your footwear: Be mindful of any discomfort or issues with your shoes. Ill-fitting or worn-out shoes can negatively impact how your feet interact with the ground.

How podiatry can support balance

If you’ve noticed that your balance is deteriorating or you’re catching your feet more often, it may be time to consult a podiatrist. At the Health Hub, our skilled podiatrist will evaluate your feet, shoes, gait and posture to identify the underlying causes of your balance issues. From there, they can address any alignment issues and recommend appropriate footwear.

We’re here to help you

Good balance isn’t something to take for granted. If you’re struggling with your balance, improving your foot function and alignment could make all the difference. Why not book a consultation with our podiatrist Craig today?

To book a podiatry appointment at the Health Hub in Fortitude Valley click here or call us on 1300 709 076.

This general information, while intended to be helpful, is not individual health advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health decisions. While the information is curated with care, its accuracy, completeness, or recency cannot be guaranteed.