Effect of Walking Training with Textured Insole Socks in Older Adults

Abstract Aims To evaluate the effects of textured insole socks on balance, gait parameters, and fall risk in older adults at risk of falling. Methods Thirty older adults at risk of falls participated and were randomly allocated equally to the intervention (texture insole socks) or control (unmodified socks) groups. Both groups were asked to walk on a 10-meter walkway for 2000 steps/day, 3 days/week for 4 weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems test, the modified 30-second chair stand test, and Gait Analyzer application. Results Textured insole socks increased balance and decreased the risk of falls in older adults to the same extent as unmodified socks. The beneficial effect on balance lasted at least for 2 weeks. No significant changes were observed in gait parameters for either group. Conclusions These interventions may be viewed as low-cost instruments for improving balance and lowering the risk of falls in older adults.