This cross-sectional retrospective study (n=85, age ≥60, mean age 71 years, 66% women, 46% with type 2 diabetes) evaluated which podiatric findings — including hyperkeratosis, corns, reduced plantar fat pad, onychomycosis, heel xerosis, and digital deformities (hallux valgus, claw/hammer/supraductus/infraductus toes, quintus varus) — best predict fall risk as measured by the Tinetti balance and gait scale.
66% of participants had moderate-to-high fall risk. Logistic regression identified **reduced plantar fat pad** (p=0.007) and **heel xerosis** (p=0.038) as the strongest independent predictors of fall risk, regardless of diabetes status. Diabetes itself was also significantly associated with fall risk (p=0.048).
- Small sample (n=85) from a single site limits generalizability. - Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference. - Retrospective data collection may introduce ascertainment bias for foot findings.
During geriatric assessments, examine specifically for reduced plantar fat pad and heel xerosis — both predict fall risk independent of diabetes status. Podiatric foot health screening should be integrated into routine multidisciplinary fall prevention programmes.
