Effect of Non-Slip Socks-Induced Foot Stability on Agility in Healthy Elderly Women

Abstract

OBJECTIVES The risk of falls increases due to decrease in balance ability in elderly. A safe environment that can prevent slipping in daily life is required to prevent falls. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of socks with non-slip pads on improving foot stability and balance in the elderly. METHODS Sixteen older women aged 67-87years complete tests while wearing non-slip socks and/or normal socks. Measurements were taken for body composition, static and agility/dynamic balance, and self-reported wearing sensation. RESULTS Agility/dynamic balance was higher in the non-slip socks group than that in the normal socks group (p 0.05). There were no differences between the two groups in terms of comfort, thermal, wet, tactile, and fit sensations according to the wearing of the socks (p>0.05). Significant higher stability sensation was observed in non-slip socks group than normal socks group (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that the use of non-slip socks will help to prevent falls that may occur during indoor or outdoor activities and also improve exercise performance in the elderly.

Keywords

• balance
• elderly women
• foot stability