Footwear characteristics and foot problems in community dwelling people with stroke: a cross-sectional observational study.

Many community-dwelling people with stroke wore poorly fitting shoes; all had foot problems. Foot problems were linked to reduced mobility. Finding more effective pathways to support people with stroke to select supportive, well-fitting indoor and outdoor footwear is indicated.Implications for rehabilitationPeople with stroke often wear unsupportive ill-fitting shoes and experience foot problems.Assessment of foot problems and footwear advice should be considered during stroke rehabilitation particularly when interventions target fall prevention or improvements in balance and mobility.Information on appropriate footwear and signposting that new shoe purchases should include measuring feet to ensure a good fit is recommended.