The Royal College of Podiatry publishes a new policy position about falls prevention and the role of podiatry
The new policy position showcases how podiatrists take the lead in falls prevention and patient safety
The Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod) has published its Falls Prevention Policy highlighting the critical role podiatrists play in reducing falls among older adults and vulnerable populations.
Falls are a leading cause of injury and hospitalisation in older people, costing the NHS £4.4 billion annually. This policy outlines evidence-based strategies for prevention, including podiatric assessment, foot and ankle strength training, footwear advice, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Lawrence Ambrose, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Royal College of Podiatry, said
“Podiatrists are uniquely placed to identify and address the risk factors that lead to falls – often before a fall occurs. This policy position reinforces the value of podiatric care in keeping people mobile, independent and safe.”
The RCPod is calling on health care leaders, commissioners and policymakers to integrate podiatry more fully into falls prevention strategies. By doing so, we can reduce avoidable harm, improve quality of life and ease the burden on health and social care services.
You can download the Falls prevention policy position statement here