Wearing the correct shoes

Properly fitted shoes can reduce foot problems and may also improve your balance and stability. An astonishing number of people wear shoes that don't fit correctly and cause serious foot problems. Badly fitting shoes may also contribute to falls.

However there is no such thing as a perfect shoe. Feet come in different shapes and sizes, and everybody has different requirements when it comes to selecting a safe shoe.

Choose the right shoes for the activity you are doing. While a shoe with a little heel can be good for a special occasion, lace-ups are best for when you are active and walk around a lot.

Avoid wearing loose-fitting or open-backed slippers, sandals or shoes with heels; they might cause you to slip or trip. Shoes need to fit well - even if you are only wearing them around the house. Wearing safe, supportive shoes is therefore a good way of preventing falls.

If you are unsure whether you are wearing the right shoes, ask your GP, physiotherapist or podiatrist.

Find out more on how to choose safe shoes on the following page.