Footwear for Neurological Conditions: How the Right Shoes Can Support Function and Safety
Footwear is something many of us take for granted… until it becomes a barrier to safety, mobility, or comfort. For individuals living with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, peripheral neuropathy, or multiple sclerosis, selecting appropriate footwear can be a game-changer in daily life.
As physiotherapists and occupational therapists, we often assess how neurological conditions affect balance, walking patterns, and lower limb sensation or coordination. But just as crucial is considering the interface between foot and ground… the shoe.
Let’s explore why footwear matters and what features to look for.
How Neurological Conditions Affect the Feet and Gait
Neurological conditions can cause:
Altered sensation (e.g., numbness, tingling, or pain)
Reduced proprioception (awareness of foot position)
Muscle weakness or tightness
Spasticity, tremor, or rigidity
Impaired balance or coordination
Freezing of gait (particularly in Parkinson’s disease)
These changes often increase the risk of trips, falls, or foot injuries; especially if footwear is unsupportive, too loose, or fails to accommodate specific foot changes like deformity or swelling.
Key Footwear Features for Neurological Safety
We often recommend the following features, depending on the condition and individual presentation:
Wide toe box – Reduces pressure on toes and accommodates deformities.
Firm heel counter – Improves ankle stability and helps control foot position.
Low heel height – Keeps the foot in a neutral position to reduce fall risk.
Non-slip sole – Essential for safe walking on varied surfaces.
Lightweight but supportive construction – Especially helpful for those with foot drop or leg fatigue.
A firm securing system such as laces or good quality Velcro… sorry but your favourite slippers aren’t going to cut it.
Velcro or elastic laces – Easier to manage for those with hand weakness or tremor.
Orthotic compatibility – Many clients use orthotics or AFOs (ankle-foot orthoses), so shoes must allow for this.
Your physiotherapist or occupational therapist can assess your gait and mobility to help determine which footwear features are most suitable. If needed, we can also refer you to a podiatrist or orthotist for more complex foot care needs.
How Physios and OTs Help
At Physio Express, we assess not just how you move, but also what you're wearing when you move. We can:
Evaluate your gait and balance in your usual footwear
Trial walking in different shoes to see what helps or hinders
Refer for custom orthotics or specialist podiatry when needed
Prescribe targeted strengthening, balance, or sensory retraining programs
Provide education on footwear safety at home vs. in the community
Sometimes, improving balance or sensation starts from the ground up… literally.
In-Clinic and Home Visit Support
Whether you visit us in the clinic or we come to you, our team can work with you to find the best footwear solution for your needs. We’ll consider how you move around your home, how far you're walking each day, and whether you need options for support, grip, or comfort.
Takeaway Tips
Look for a stable, supportive shoe with good grip.
Avoid loose, worn-out shoes or unsupportive slippers.
Consider shoes that are easy to put on, especially if you have reduced hand dexterity.
If you wear an AFO or other orthotic, bring it to your footwear fitting.
Talk to your physio or OT before buying new shoes we can help assess what's right for you.
For tailored advice on gait, balance, footwear, and fall prevention, book an appointment with one of our friendly physiotherapists or occupational therapists today.
📞 0414 728 922
🌐 https://www.physioexpress.com.au/
🏠 Clinic and mobile visits available