September is an important time to focus on fall prevention, with Falls Prevention Awareness Week taking place September 21–25, 2026. While home hazards often get much of the attention, your feet can also have a major impact on your stability. Foot pain, numbness, weakness, and improper footwear may change the way you walk and make it harder to maintain your balance.

At Clark Podiatry Center, we offer a range of foot and ankle services designed to help patients stay comfortable and mobile. The practice also has an on-site pedorthist who specializes in shoes and braces and supports its Fall Prevention Program.

How Do Your Feet Affect Your Balance?

When pain, weakness, or changes in sensation affect the feet or ankles, you may compensate by altering your gait or shifting your weight.

Several foot problems can contribute to instability:

• Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy can cause numbness or reduced sensation in the feet. When you cannot fully feel the ground beneath you, navigating uneven surfaces may become more difficult.
• Foot and heel pain: Pain may cause you to favor one side, shorten your stride, or change the way you walk.
• Previous ankle injuries: An ankle that remains weak or unstable after a sprain may make it harder to recover from a misstep.
• Poor foot alignment: Flat feet and other structural issues can affect weight distribution and overall stability.

Can Better Footwear Help Reduce Fall Risk?

The right shoes can make a difference. Shoes that are loose, worn out, slippery, or unsupportive may interfere with stable walking. 

For some patients, custom orthotics can improve foot support, alignment, mobility, and comfort. Read more about the benefits of orthotics for fall activities and foot health.

Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Feet

Fall prevention is not just about watching where you step. It also means making sure your feet provide the support and sensation you need to move confidently. Addressing foot and ankle problems may help you stay active, comfortable, and steady on your feet.

At Clark Podiatry Center, Dr. Brandon A. Macy, a board-certified podiatrist, treats various conditions such as heel pain, diabetic wounds, bunions, nerve pain, and more. The New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute is also part of Clark Podiatry Center. We provide exceptional service for patients in Union County. Contact our office at (732) 382-3470 or schedule an appointment online. Our office is at 1114 Raritan Road, Clark, NJ 07066.