MBTs May Increase Risk of Falls

Wearing MBT (Masai Barefoot Technology) walking shoes may increase your risk of a fall, claim researchers from the School of Physiotherapy in the Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin.

The popular shoes claim to improve balance and posture by mimicking the natural conditions of walking barefoot in natural terrain. Thousands of pairs of the €200 shoes have been sold in Ireland

Physiotherapist Louise Smith looked at the effects of wearing MBTs compared to wearing flat shoes or no shoes in 10 women. She found that the MBTs significantly increased the women’s postural sway, which she said indicated the shoe was unstable and made it more difficult for the wearer to stay upright.

"If you have an increased postural sway you are more likely to fall," said Ms Smith. She advised that the shoes should be prescribed rather than sold over-the-counter because they are not suitable for everyone.

A number of HSE alcohol awareness booklets are available to help parents discuss the issue of alcohol with their teenagers and assist adults in reflecting on their own alcohol use. ‘Straight Talk – a guide for parents on teenage drinking’ and ‘Less is More’ can be accessed at www.hse.ie or through the HSE Infoline 1850 24 1850.

Posted 29th May 2008