It is hard to deal with a shuffling gait as it increases the chance of injuries from falls. But with the right pair of shoes, you can put your mind and feet slightly at ease.
We have compiled a list of the best shoes for shuffling gait while taking into account the comfort, traction, support, and protection that these shoes have to offer. If you are suffering from a shuffling gait, checking these shoes out is a must.
So let’s dive right into our detailed breakdown of each pair of shoes and choose the one that fits you the best.
Best Shoes For Shuffling Gait To Relieve Your Feet
The best shoes for shuffling gait should offer comfort, support, breathability, and traction. All of these shoes are good for seniors suffering from arthritis, Parkinson’s or rheumatic that results in a shuffling gait.
Hush Puppies Women’s Power Walker Loafer
- 100% grain leather upper
- Outsole crafted with Bounce technology
- Dri-Lex socklining for climate control
- Removable molded footbed
- Polyurethane footbed provides energy rebound
To start off our list with a bang, we have the Hush Puppies Power Walker loafers designed for women. Easy to put on and off, you can just slip into them in a jiggy.
The Power Walker II sneakers are made of full-grain leather and feature a vintage-style hook-and-loop fastening on the front. They’re available in a variety of somber colors like clack, white & taupe. So, looks-wise, these shoes are definitely winning.
With the Bounce technology in the footbed, you will get an energy rebound with every stride, making these leather sneakers built for action. The Dri-Lex sock lining keeps your feet cool and dry all day, and the inside footbed can be removed to tailor your comfort. All in all, you get adjustability when it comes to supporting, which is great because every pair of feet are different.
The hook-and-loop fastening allows you to loosen or tighten the shoe according to your need. This is especially great if your feet swell during the day. Swollen feet are common for diabetes, Parkinson’s, arthritis, and several other diseases prominent amongst the elderly.
PUMA Women’s Riaze Prowl Sneaker
- A fully knitted upper in the manner of a running sneaker
- For enhanced comfort, the collar and tongue are padded.
- Tongue and heel pull tabs
- Cushioned insole and soft lining
- Rubber outsole for durability
These shoes are the perfect lightweight pair of sneakers that offer great support and slip resistance. PUMA has done an excellent job in designing a shoe that is perfect for the elderly.
Firstly, these shoes have heavy cushioning and lots of arch support. So, if you have curved archy feet, this one is probably going to fit you like a glove. Furthermore, you can stand in them all day and barely feel the fatigue in your feet.
They come with a lace design which means they are more of a hassle to put on than the Power Walker II. These shoes aren’t very wide. So, they will be most comfortable if you have average or narrow width feet.
Another excellent feature of this shoe is how easy it is to clean them. You can wash them in the washing machine and air dry them. These shoes have a more contemporary look and come in vibrant, chic colors. Also, the outsole has an excellent grip which makes this shoe slip-resistant. So, you don’t need to worry about falling at all.
Skechers Performance Women’s GOwalk Shoe
- Lightweight Resalyte cushioning
- 100% Synthetic and Fabric upper
- memory foam padding around the heel
- Goga Pillars sensors offer flexibility and feedback
- lightweight injection-molded compound with memory retention
Another super comfy slip-on for women. The GOwalk shoes come in a variety of colors to suit every taste. Here are some amazing features of these shoes.
Neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, achy heels- no matter the issue, these shoes are surely going to be a comfort to your feet. They offer incredible support and cushioning.
The padding is made of memory retention compounds that make the shoe mold to your feet’s shape. This gives you maximum support as well as an incredible feel. On top of that, if you have orthopedic ankle support inserts, these shoes can accommodate them well.
They are pretty lightweight and ideal for walking long distances. You can put it on and take it off super easily. It has a sleek slip-on design. They are available in wide sizes for people with wide feet.
In terms of support, these shoes fare much better than average but the PUMA Riaze Prowl sneakers have them beat. However, these pairs are more lightweight and easy to put on in comparison.
Under Armour Women’s HOVR Infinite 3 Running Shoe
- Responsive cushioning lower impact
- The mesh upper is very light and breathable.
- For added support, there’s an internal heel counter.
- A full-length die-cut EVA sockliner molds to the foot.
- Greater traction is provided by carbon rubber pods under the heel.
This one’s best for you if you remain active throughout the day. It is a high-performing shoe meant to provide efficiency while running. It has all you would look for in the best shoes for elderly shuffling gait.
The most awesome feature the Infinite 3 shoes have is their ability to track your running metrics. You can connect the sneakers to UA MAPMYRUN and get your stats. The upper is built with breathable mesh material that keeps your feet airy and cool.
For support, you have an internal heel counter that helps keep the back of the foot locked in place and cushioning that not only reduces impact but rebounds energy and helps move you forward. So, if you have a job that keeps you on your feet and requires a moderate amount of activity, these shoes are the right fit for you.
They are true to size fit. This shoe is extremely comfortable for anyone suffering from a shuffling gait.
Orthoshoes Women’s Diabetic Elderly Shoes
- The stretch mesh upper expands as your foot moves
- Closures on the forefoot straps allow for a lot of adjustment
- To absorb shock, there is a noticeable air cushion design
- The robust and lightweight sole provides traction
- Unique comfort characteristics biomechanically constructed
These shoes are specifically designed for the elderly. It is a breathable, lightweight, & comfortable shoe that makes it one of the best sneakers for shuffling gait.
Although this shoe doesn’t come from a big brand, it is made of quality material. Stretchy, breathable mesh material that will adjust to accommodate your feet perfectly. Your feet won’t get hot in them.
This shoe, like The Power Walker II has an adjustable strap that is great for swelling in the feet. It can also reduce the fluid buildup on your feet. This shoe is perfect for someone who has Hammertoes, Bunions, Plantar Fasciitis, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hammer Toes, Morton’s Neuroma, Oedema, Dementia, Injuries affecting tendons, muscles, and bones.
The shoe is biochemically constructed with sufficient padding, and the sole is slip-resistant so that your feet remain firmly planted. This is a great option for you if you suffer from multiple ailments that affect your feet.
What Medications Can Cause Shuffling Gait?
Some medications may cause shuffling gait along with other symptoms related to Parkinson’s. That doesn’t mean you are developing Parkinson’s but rather that these tremors are side effects of the medications. The following medications can cause a shuffling gait.
- Antipsychotic medications such as fluphenazine, chlorpromazine, pimozide, perphenazine, promazine, and haloperidol.
- Antinausea medications like hydroxyzine and promethazine.
- Gastrointestinal prokinetics include metoclopramide, prochlorperazine, and levosulpiride.
- Calcium channel blockers. The most common one is diltiazem.
- Anticonvulsant medication
- Antidepressants
So, if you are taking any of these medications, they may cause Parkinsonism, which is a collection of symptoms that resemble Parkinson’s disease movement issues. When the offending medication is removed, drug-induced Parkinsonism is frequently reversible.
How Do You Fix Shuffling Gait?
A shuffling gait may have many causes, but the basic issues that are typically behind a compromised gait are- lack of strength in calf and foot muscles, lack of balance, loss of flexibility, and a weak vision.
The number one thing you can do to fix a shuffling gait is to exercise. A lot of stretchy legs and hip exercises will return some of the strength in your feet. It also increases flexibility and mind to muscle connection.
While exercising, you will find that you have to concentrate really hard on the movement of your feet. Practicing focus is also beneficial to improving your gait.
Your back is also a part of the problem. Exercises that strengthen your back and thighs are also going to improve a shuffling gait. Watch this video and follow along with the exercises. It isn’t going to be easy, but it sure is rewarding if you regularly do these exercises.
What Shoe Features Are Important for a Shuffling Gait?- Buyer’s Guide
Shuffling gait is a big concern for many elderly people. It can result in a fall and subsequent injuries.
A good shoe will make the shuffling gait more manageable and reduce the risk of falls. If you have a shuffling gait, here are the features you should look for in a shoe.
Cushioning & Support
As shuffling gait is caused by weak foot muscles and tender joints, you are likely to experience fatigue and pain in your feet early.
Having a shoe that has good arch support and memory retaining padding that molds to the shape of your feet can improve your walking experience vastly. Support is incredibly important to prevent foot aches, especially if you have to stay on your feet for long.
Ergonomic Design
An ergonomic design means an efficient design that reduces the effort taken to do things and improves posture. A shoe that returns energy is going to make it far easier to keep your feet moving.
If you have a more active lifestyle, try going with a pair of sneakers that have EVA midsoles. That is because it provides your feet with stability and endures better during activities.
An ortholite footbed is also great for performance enhancement. It provides you with comfort and long-term cushioning as well. If your soles are made of these materials, you can bet they will be comfortable and great to walk around in.
Good Flexibility
Flexibility is an important aspect of the movement. Part of what causes a shuffling gait is the reduction of flexibility. You need to get a shoe that is lightweight and easy to lift with every step.
The material making the upper and the rest of the shoe should be fairly stretchy to allow free movement.
High Breathability
It is a pain to wear shoes that make your feet sweat and uncomfortable. The most breathable material has to be mesh. It keeps your feet airy and dry all day long.
Great Traction
Falling is a real hazard when it comes to shuffling gait. An outsole that has grooves and patterns on them to provide better traction is the best. Make sure that the shoe is slip-resistant, so your feet are securely planted on every stride.
Read more: Understanding Parkinsonian Gait
FAQs
What does a shuffling gait indicate?
Shuffling gait or weakness might indicate a variety of neurological problems or nerve injury. If you notice unexpected changes in your gait or weakness on one side of your body, it could be an indication of a stroke.
How do I get my seniors to stop shuffling?
Shuffling feet can be a result of neurological conditions. It might mean a lack of strength and flexibility in the feet. To help someone reduce shuffling, you can make them exercise to enhance feet, back, and thigh strength. Stretching is also helpful.
Why do old people have a shuffling gait?
Neurological conditions are common in old age. Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, rheumatic arthritis, and other diseases can cause shuffling gait.
Is shuffling gait a symptom of Alzheimer’s?
Yes. Because the region of the brain that controls motor abilities is damaged, a shuffling walk can be an early symptom of a lack of muscular coordination.
Final Words
Shuffling gait can be hard to deal with. It not only makes your walking slower but also increases the chances of a fall.
So, the choice of footwear for people suffering from a shuffling gait should cater towards reducing the risk of falls and making movement easier.
We have listed the best shoes for shuffling gait out there in the market. Based on your needs, the best pair for you may look a little different from the next person. But all of these shoes are great. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
