A wobble on the stairs, a near-trip on the kerb, a sudden loss of confidence when the pavement is wet. If this sounds familiar, you’re far from alone.

Falls become more common with age, with around one in three people over 65 and one in two people over 80 experiencing at least one fall each year, according to the UK Government.

While household hazards and the side-effects of medication are often discussed, foot health is frequently overlooked. The good news is that many of the foot problems that contribute to unsteadiness can be spotted early, treated effectively, and even prevented.

How Your Feet Help You to Stay Balanced

Your feet do far more than simply carry you from place to place. Thousands of tiny nerve endings in the soles constantly send messages to your brain about the ground beneath you. Whether it’s flat, sloped, rough or slippery.

At the same time, joints, tendons and muscles make constant micro-adjustments to keep you upright. When pain, stiffness or reduced sensation interfere with any part of this system, your balance suffers.

When this happens, the body often adapts by taking shorter steps, shuffling, leaning forwards or relying on furniture for support. All of which increases the risk of falling.

Foot Problems That Can Make You Unsteady

Many people are surprised to learn just how much foot health affects balance and confidence when walking. Even small changes in sensation, comfort or movement can alter the way you stand and step, often without you realising it. Over time, these subtle adjustments can make you feel unsteady, especially on uneven or slippery surfaces. Below are some of the most common foot-related issues we see that can increase the risk of stumbles and falls, along with why addressing them early can make such a meaningful difference.

1. Numbness and nerve changes

Reduced feeling in the feet, often linked to diabetes or circulation issues, makes it harder to detect uneven surfaces, steps or small obstacles. If your feet can’t ‘find’ the ground properly, your brain has less information to work with. A diabetic foot assessment can identify early nerve changes and help you stay one step ahead.

2. Painful skin and nails

Corns, calluses and thickened toenails may seem minor, but they can change the way you walk. Limping to avoid a painful pressure point or favouring one foot shifts your centre of gravity and makes stumbles more likely. Regular chiropody appointments keeps skin and nails comfortable and reduces hidden trip-risks.

​3. Stiff or misshapen joints

Arthritis, bunions and general joint stiffness reduce the foot’s ability to adapt to uneven ground. You may find yourself taking shorter steps, turning your feet outwards or gripping with your toes. All of which can feel wobbly. A biomechanical assessment looks at how your feet and legs move together and can highlight simple changes that make a real difference.

4. Worn-out or poorly fitting footwear

Slippers with no back, smooth-soled shoes or footwear that has seen better days can all undermine stability. As feet naturally widen and flatten with age, shoe sizes can change too. Supportive, well-fitting shoes – indoors as well as outdoors – are one of the simplest ways to reduce fall risk. Orthotics or insoles can add extra cushioning and support where needed.

Simple Steps to Improve Stability

Some simple everyday habits can make a real difference to how steady you feel on your feet. Here are a few practical steps you, or someone you care for, can start straight away to help reduce the risk of a fall.

• Check your feet regularly for changes in skin, nails or shape. Ask a family member to help if needed.
• Wear secure, supportive footwear around the house, not just when going out.
• Keep up gentle movement, such as calf stretches, ankle circles and short walks. A good option is enrolling in strength and balance classes in your local area, often run by Age UK.
• Have regular sight and hearing tests.
• Clear trip hazards at home, watching for loose rugs, trailing cables and poor lighting.
• Don’t ignore new pain, swelling or changes in balance.

How Feet By Pody Can Help

Our friendly London podiatrists see patients of all ages and are experienced in helping older adults stay steady on their feet. An appointment might include a full skin and nail check, circulation and nerve assessment, gait and footwear review, and a chat about orthotics or insoles if they’d help. Our aim is less pain, more confidence and greater independence.

If you, or someone you care about, would like reassuring, professional foot care, book an appointment at one of our five London foot clinics. We’re here to help you stay on your feet.