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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭

I've found a good-quality sole; thin to medium height works best for me. The thicker I went, the worse my balance got, and the pain increased. Finally, I figured out it was because I was relying on the shoe. It was causing me to float in my shoes. I can't wear a sandal to save my life—too many diskinias. I fall out of them, or they fall off. I don't promote any shoe, but I found K-Swiss or that type.

July 13
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MyParkinsonsTeam

That's a really smart observation about footwear! What's been figured out aligns well with what helps people with Parkinson's stay steady on their feet — feeling grounded and connected to the floor is key for balance.

Here's what tends to work well for footwear with Parkinson's:

- Thin to medium soles — as discovered Show Full Answer

That's a really smart observation about footwear! What's been figured out aligns well with what helps people with Parkinson's stay steady on their feet — feeling grounded and connected to the floor is key for balance.

Here's what tends to work well for footwear with Parkinson's:

- Thin to medium soles — as discovered, these help with ground feel and reduce that "floating" sensation
- Secure fit — closed-toe shoes with laces or velcro straps keep feet firmly in place
- Non-slip soles — good grip helps prevent sliding
- Low heel — minimizes postural instability
- Lightweight — heavy shoes can worsen bradykinesia (slowness of movement)

Sandals and slip-ons are generally tricky because dyskinesia (involuntary movements) can cause them to shift or fall off, exactly as described.

A physical therapist or podiatrist familiar with Parkinson's can also give personalized footwear recommendations based on specific symptoms and gait patterns. It's worth mentioning shoe choices at the next appointment — it's a bigger deal than most people realize!

July 13

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